DSP Open House (Brooklyn): Wednesday, October 28th, 2026
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional empowers persons with developmental disabilities to live fulfilling lives by providing personalized support and fostering independence. The role promotes individual growth and quality of life while maintaining a supportive environment. Responsibilities include providing direct care, implementing person-centered plans, supporting daily living activities, and encouraging social, vocational, and life skills. The position also involves medication administration, community participation, documentation, collaboration with care teams and families, and advocacy for the rights and choices of the people supported.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid NY, NJ, CT, or PA driver's license, with at least 6 months of experience and 6 or fewer points.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support persons with developmental disabilities.
- Commitment to compassionate care and promoting dignity and respect.
- Ability to respond effectively to changing needs and environments, demonstrating 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 varying 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 enhance 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 interactions.
- Accompany individuals to appointments and healthcare follow-ups.
- Use person-centered approaches and positive behavior support strategies to address challenging behaviors and maintain a safe, nurturing environment.
- Provide the level of supervision and support required for individuals' medical, developmental, clinical, and emotional needs.
- Maintain accurate records, daily progress notes, and incident reports, and comply with agency policies and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals, therapists, family members, and interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement comprehensive care plans.
- Advocate for individuals' rights, choices, and preferences and promote self-advocacy and empowerment in decision-making.
- Act as a custodian and mandated reporter in accordance with OPWDD, NYSJC, and organizational policies.
- Administer medications according to prescribed schedules, document administration, 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
