Direct Support Professional (CLS)

AHRC Nassau•Seaford, NY

18d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional supports people living in the Community Living Services program and helps maintain a high quality of life. The role promotes the agency’s mission and guiding principles, supports individuals’ independence and participation in daily life, and contributes to an inclusive environment grounded in cultural awareness, equity, and respect for diversity. Support may include self-care, health and safety, household chores, socialization, wellbeing, meal preparation, medication administration, community participation, and transportation. The employee follows individual treatment plans, documents services and progress, collaborates with the interdisciplinary team, and helps orient new Direct Support Staff. The position involves regular and substantial unsupervised or unrestricted physical contact with people receiving services and requires successful completion of a fingerprint/criminal background check. Training on Personal Outcome Measures (POM) is required before completing evaluations and assessments.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Submit a valid New York State driver’s license and maintain qualified driver status throughout employment.
If holding an out-of-state driver’s license, transfer it to New York State within 30 days of hire.
Ability to communicate and understand written and oral directives and information.
Ability to meet physical demands that may include lifting and transferring children and/or adults.
Successfully complete a fingerprint/criminal background check.
Complete Personal Outcome Measures (POM) training before conducting evaluations and assessments.

Responsibilities

Provide ongoing guidance and support to individuals with intellectual and other disabilities so they can participate in all aspects of their lives.
Provide only the level of support necessary to promote independence and engagement in daily routines.
Support individuals in becoming active community members and in maintaining and building natural supports and relationships.
Help maintain a safe, clean home by supporting individuals with household chores and participating in chores as needed.
Follow treatment plans and use the corresponding adaptive and safety equipment to promote independence and protect individuals’ health, safety, and wellbeing.
Support meal preparation and teach concepts such as diet adherence, portion control, and cooking skills.
Assist with medication administration in accordance with AMAP policies and procedures.
Implement and document treatment plans and agency materials, including residential habilitation goals, medical case notes, and communication logs.
Follow overtime, scheduling, and minimum staffing policies and procedures.
Attend and participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss progress and goal achievements and exchange information and ideas.
Provide transportation for medical appointments, shopping, recreational outings, and other needs.
Mentor new Direct Support Staff by demonstrating supportive routines and reviewing training manuals.
Participate in House Meetings and maintain required certifications and training.
Perform other duties as requested by the supervisor.