FT Direct Support Professional
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional provides supervision and guidance to individuals with disabilities who reside in a group home. The role includes supporting personal care, medication management, crisis management, daily living skills, community integration, and individual choice and independence. The position is based at Saco Road in Towanda, Pennsylvania, and the listed schedule is Thursday through Saturday, 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., at $18.00 per hour. The posting describes the position as full-time, although its classification section defines full-time as normally working at least 36 hours per week on the same shift and days. The employee implements Individual Service Plans, completes timely documentation, maintains medication administration certification, follows agency policies and applicable regulations, and completes required training. The position also involves household tasks and supporting individuals who may have challenging behaviors or co-occurring mental health disorders. A pre-employment physical and a physical with a Mantoux TB test are required upon hire.
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent, or experience in the field.
- No criminal record.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Maintain Medication Administration Certification.
- Complete a pre-employment physical and a physical with a Mantoux TB test upon hire.
- Ability to lift 40–100 pounds unassisted and 100 pounds or more with assistance.
- Ability to reach above the head and below the knees, perform repetitive motions with both hands, push and pull a wheelchair, and twist and bend at the waist.
- Good reaction response to protect personal space.
Responsibilities
- Know and comply with agency policies and procedures, including applicable 6100 and 6400 regulations and updated ODP requirements.
- Perform duties in alignment with the agency’s mission and vision.
- Identify individuals’ strengths, needs, and goals.
- Implement Individual Service Plans and document outcomes accurately and promptly.
- Complete at least 24 hours of training annually, including mandatory and supervisor-assigned training.
- Attend and participate in staff meetings.
- Use or learn to use computers for documentation, training, and related tasks.
- Assist with or perform personal care, including tooth-brushing, toileting, bathing, dressing, and feeding.
- Serve as a positive role model for individuals.
- Create opportunities for individuals to integrate into and receive support in their communities.
- Perform housekeeping tasks such as vacuuming, shopping, laundry, and mopping.
- Provide support and problem-solving techniques to individuals.
- Communicate effectively and promptly with the immediate supervisor.
- Administer medication and maintain Medication Administration Certification.
- Advocate for individuals in their community relationships.
- Identify workplace safety issues and injuries and report them immediately.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards.
- Encourage individuals’ independence in daily skills and teach skills that support independence.
- Encourage and respect choices made by individuals.
- Complete required documentation in the agency-approved electronic health record and follow related documentation policies.
- Support individuals with emotional issues by providing assistance, education, and solutions.
- Escalate incidents identified in the Incident Management Bulletin to a point person.
- Use positive and respectful language with supervisors, coworkers, and individuals.
- Use and model the everyday life philosophy when supporting individuals.
- Perform related tasks assigned by the immediate supervisor.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
