Direct Support Professional - Syracuse

ADVOCATES INCORPORATED • City of Syracuse, NY

3d • $16 - $21

About The Position

Advocates Incorporated is seeking a Mentor (DSP/1:1 support staff) to support an independent and determined man with a developmental disability. The Mentor will assist him in working toward goals at home and in the community, including pursuing hobbies and interests, building independent living skills, and participating in activities and events of his choosing. Activities may include browsing stores, dining at restaurants, taking trips, visiting parks, grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry.

This is a part-time opportunity of about 12–18 hours per week, generally across three weekday afternoons. Days and hours can be somewhat flexible, though weekday afternoon availability is preferred. Full-time opportunities may also be available. Direct-support work pays $21.30 per hour; indirect and training time pays $16 per hour. Mileage is reimbursed at the IRS standard rate when transporting the individual. The Mentor must carefully record daily time, mileage, and service documentation electronically.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have a valid email address.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and auto insurance if required for the assigned job.
• Must demonstrate sound decision-making skills and understanding of the agency mission.
• Must support person-centered services, self-advocacy, and the right and ability of people served to self-direct their supports and services.
• Must demonstrate patience and compassion.
• Must be able to read and comprehend instructions and correspondence and write correspondence.
• Must have basic reasoning skills, including the ability to analyze and problem-solve.
• Must be able to tolerate moderate workplace noise and handle distractions.
• Must be able to perform the physical aspects of the job, including sitting, standing, reaching, walking, pushing, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Background checks are required.

Nice To Haves

• Related experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• GED or high school diploma.
• Applicable job experience.
• Previous experience working one-to-one in a related service environment.
• Knowledge of disability-related issues.
• Weekday afternoon availability.

Responsibilities

• Support the individual in pursuing hobbies and interests, such as browsing stores, dining at restaurants, taking trips, and visiting local parks.
• Assist the individual with independent living skills, including grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, and laundry.
• Support participation in community activities and events chosen by the individual.
• Work toward the individual’s goals at home and in the community.
• Electronically document daily time, mileage, and services accurately.
• Provide transportation to the individual when required for the assigned job.

Benefits

• Mileage reimbursement at the IRS standard rate when providing transportation to the individual.
• Life and long-term disability insurance at no cost to the employee.
• Health insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Supplemental life insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• 401(k) with up to a 2% match.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED