DSP - Thieriot Avenue
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional at The New York Foundling empowers people with developmental disabilities to live fulfilling lives through personalized support that fosters independence, individual growth, and quality of life. The role provides support in a safe, nurturing environment and implements and monitors individualized plans of care, including functional assessments, staff actions, Life Plans, treatment plans, and Behavior Support Plans. The position supports daily living, social, vocational, and life skills; facilitates community participation; and works with interdisciplinary teams and families to provide holistic care. The Direct Support Professional also advocates for the rights and choices of the people supported, maintains accurate documentation, and follows agency and regulatory requirements.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid NY, NJ, CT, or PA driver's license, at least six months of driving experience, and six or fewer points on the license.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support people with developmental disabilities.
- Commitment to compassionate care and to promoting dignity and respect for people with developmental disabilities.
- Ability to respond effectively to changing needs and environments, with flexibility and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality, uphold ethical standards, and follow agency policies and procedures.
- Demonstrated strong commitment to safety.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in direct care or human services.
- CPR and First Aid certification.
- Additional training in developmental disabilities, behavior management, or healthcare.
Responsibilities
- Implement and monitor plans of care, including Comprehensive Functional Assessments, Staff Action Plans, Life Plans, treatment plans, and Behavior Support Plans.
- Implement and document goals and objectives from person-centered plans, using structured activities and positive reinforcement to build social, vocational, and life skills.
- Provide direct care and assistance with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and transportation.
- Facilitate community outings, recreational activities, and social events that promote inclusion, independence, and meaningful interaction.
- Accompany people supported to appointments and assist with healthcare follow-up.
- Use person-centered approaches and positive behavior support strategies to respond to challenging behaviors and maintain a safe, nurturing environment.
- Provide the level of supervision and support required for medical, developmental, clinical, and emotional needs.
- Maintain accurate records, daily progress notes, and incident reports concerning achievements, behaviors, and health status, in compliance with agency policies and regulations.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals, therapists, family members, and interdisciplinary teams to develop and carry out comprehensive care plans.
- Advocate for the rights, choices, and preferences of people supported, and promote self-advocacy and empowerment in decision-making.
- Serve as a custodian and mandated reporter in accordance with OPWDD, NYSJC, and organizational policies.
- Administer medications as prescribed, document administration accurately, and monitor for adverse reactions or side effects.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
