Community Support Specialist-Day Services ( CDS Overhire)

Richcroft, Inc.•Glencoe, MD

119d•Onsite

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) works in the Day Services Department to provide Community Development Services (CDS) and/or Day Habilitation Services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Under the supervision of the Director of Day Services, the DSP implements and supervises daily community engagement and integration activities based on each person’s interests and needs. Activities may include social, fitness, arts, sports, festival, and volunteer programs, supporting community connections, socialization, lifelong learning, healthy recreation and leisure, and personal development. This community-based role requires reporting to the home of the person supported, transporting them to community programs throughout the day, and returning them home at the end of the program day. The DSP works Mondays and Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and provides coverage as the main staff for groups in Baltimore and Harford Counties when primary staff are unavailable. When coverage is not needed, the DSP serves as a second staff member in an assigned group in either county. The position supports 2–5 individuals daily.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 20 years of age.
Full, valid driver’s license (not a provisional license).
At least two years of driving experience and a clean driving record with no more than three points.
Access to a reliable vehicle for daily use with current automobile insurance.
Must have or be able to obtain CPR and First Aid certification.
Must successfully complete MANDT training.
Must be able to obtain CMT certification.
Must be fully vaccinated or subject to weekly testing.
Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
Ability to read, write, and speak English.
Ability to use technology for specified job duties, including email, text messaging, and timekeeping.
In-depth working knowledge of the MS Office Suite, including Outlook, Excel, and Word, and other technology.
Ability to work with individuals with a variety of disabilities, including potential exposure to aggressive, unpredictable behavior.
Ability to sit, stand, reach, walk, run, push, carry, manipulate objects or controls, kneel, stoop, or crawl for prolonged periods.
Ability to assist with transferring an adult in and out of a wheelchair and, when necessary, assist with personal care.
Ability to occasionally lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds or more.

Nice To Haves

Some college coursework in Therapeutic Recreation, Special Education, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field.
Experience working with adults with intellectual disabilities.
Background in recreation and leisure skill development.
Familiarity with iCare Manager (iCM).

Responsibilities

Provide coverage as the main staff for groups in Baltimore and Harford Counties when primary staff are unable to work; serve as a second staff member in an assigned group when coverage is not needed.
Assist and supervise 2–5 individuals in community-based activities to support successful participation, integration, and engagement.
Implement and supervise community engagement and integration activities related to the interests and needs of the people supported.
Transport individuals from their homes to community programs and return them home at the end of the program day.
Submit accurate and timely records of activities, notes, goals, and other required reports.
Ensure compliance with COMAR, Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), and Richcroft regulations.
Communicate regularly with the supervisor about program enhancement opportunities and operational concerns.
Model appropriate behavior; monitor and redirect behavior, de-escalate anger and frustration, assist with conflict resolution, and help individuals stay focused on activities or volunteer duties.
Maintain communication with the department through progress notes, meetings, and other agency communication channels.
Follow instructions and agency policies and procedures.
Assume other duties, responsibilities, and special projects as needed.
Attend and participate in in-service training, staff meetings, and other activities that support professional development.