Direct Support Professional

Sevita•Crows Nest, IN

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional provides direct support within a single program or unit, typically serving 4–6 individuals in residential settings or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs. The role supports people in accordance with their individual service or program plans, including socialization, health maintenance, medication support, and skill and behavioral development. It also assists with personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community integration, shopping, citizenship, and other activities of daily living. The position includes documenting progress and activities, maintaining confidentiality, respecting individual rights, supporting health care and meal plans, and reporting incidents or concerns. Employees attend required training and staff meetings, work scheduled hours, contribute to a safe workplace, and may perform housekeeping, minor maintenance, yard work, and snow removal. The role works at the program location and may accompany individuals into the community. No supervisory responsibilities are assigned.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
At minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent is required in the New Jersey addendum; the general qualifications list a high school diploma or equivalent as preferred.
Working knowledge of computers.
Valid driver’s license in good standing; New Jersey employees must hold a valid license in their state of residence. Employees who transport individuals must meet vehicle registration and insurance requirements and be approved by management to drive for the company.
Complete all state-required training and certifications within mandated timeframes and demonstrate proficiency in required training areas.
Submit to required pre-employment drug testing for employees hired after June 15, 2018, as well as random and for-cause/suspicion drug testing.
Submit to criminal background checks and be determined eligible by the Department of Human Services before working with individuals served.
Agree to checks against the Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and complete an application for a Child Abuse Registry Information check.
Meet company motor vehicle record requirements to drive on behalf of the company; employees who do not meet them must sign a Non-Driver form and may not drive until eligible.
Able to perform heavy work, exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 20 pounds constantly to move objects.

Nice To Haves

Six months of experience in human services preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support according to individual service or program plans, including support with socialization, behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community orientation, shopping, financial management, citizenship, and activities of daily living.
Accurately document individual progress and activities, review records and logs for service-plan updates, and maintain confidentiality.
Make cost-effective and appropriate purchases within the individual’s budget and according to their choices and preferences.
Maintain professional relationships with individuals served, friends, families, guardians, and case managers; welcome visitors and follow customer service standards.
Report alleged abuse or neglect and medical, behavioral, or other incidents according to applicable policies and requirements.
Respect and support individuals’ rights, maintain confidentiality, and practice universal precautions.
Accompany individuals to medical appointments as needed and relay information and orders to and from medical providers when required.
Administer medication or support self-administration when assigned; document medications and treatments, report errors promptly, and secure medications and supplies appropriately.
Monitor individuals’ health, document concerns, communicate with a nurse or supervisor, call 911 in emergencies, and follow health care directives.
Use medical equipment correctly and report malfunction or disrepair.
Prepare meals or support individuals in meal preparation according to planned menus, preferences, special diets, and dining plans.
Attend orientation, ongoing training, and monthly staff meetings; work scheduled hours, arrive on time, remain until relieved, and notify a supervisor when unable to work as scheduled.
Fill in for other shifts when required, without causing unapproved overtime, or during an emergency.
Contribute to teamwork through courteous communication, listening, collaboration, and respect for others.
Follow safety policies and procedures, report hazards, and participate in safety training and activities.
Transport individuals into the community when needed, drive safely and legally, use required safety equipment, and promptly report accidents and safety concerns.
Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping and maintain a clean, neat, and safe environment.
Monitor environmental safety, make minor repairs as needed, perform yard maintenance or snow removal when required, and report repair needs.
Check water temperature when required during bathing assistance, participate in safety drills, and protect individuals during emergencies.
Cooperate with licensee and Department of Human Services staff during inspections, inquiries, and investigations.
Perform other duties and activities as required.