Direct Support Professional - Manchester, CT (16 hrs/wk)
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional provides individualized support to people with intellectual disabilities. The role requires working effectively with or without direct supervision, cooperating with a team, responding calmly and professionally to crisis situations, and interacting courteously and professionally. The position also requires adapting to a flexible role in a busy, fast-paced environment. The DSP receives supervision from the Residential Program Manager and has no supervisory responsibilities. The DSP assists with daily living and personal needs, including meal planning and preparation, leisure activities and hobbies, medication administration, money management, transportation, home maintenance, personal hygiene, and appointments and social commitments. The role also includes maintaining records and documentation, supporting individuals during unusual incidents, protecting confidentiality, coordinating with families and professionals, and providing transportation and companionship outside the home. Staff meetings, required training and certifications, and emergency coverage are part of the position.
Requirements
- Current driver's license.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Strong customer service orientation.
- Understanding of basic personal care, housekeeping, and other care areas.
- Intermediate technology and computer ability.
- Ability to work with or without direct supervision, cooperate within a team, handle crisis situations calmly and professionally, and adapt to a busy, fast-paced environment.
- Ability to stand, sit, and walk for prolonged periods; bend, push, pull, and lift; and lift up to 50 pounds at times.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with people who are intellectually or developmentally disabled.
- At least one year of experience.
Responsibilities
- Provide daily instruction and assistance according to each supported individual's needs, including meal planning and preparation, leisure activities, medication administration, money management, transportation, home maintenance, personal hygiene, and appointments or social commitments.
- Complete required shift documentation, including behavior plans, individual goals, financial records, communication and nursing logs, incident reports, and medication Kardex records.
- Maintain records of individuals' care, conditions, progress, and problems, and discuss observations with the manager or supervisor and clinical staff.
- Provide necessary support or treatment and documentation for unusual incidents.
- Protect the confidentiality of supported individuals and the agency.
- Maintain positive, diplomatic relationships with individuals' families, advocates, and friends.
- Accompany individuals to medical appointments and other trips, providing transportation, assistance, and companionship.
- Manage and record house petty cash and individuals' funds according to agency policy.
- Work cooperatively and professionally with coworkers, residential support managers, administrative personnel, clinical staff, and community providers.
- Read daily communications, stay informed about relevant issues, and communicate problems or concerns to the support manager.
- Meet and maintain required certifications and training in accordance with regulatory requirements and agency policies and procedures.
- Know emergency procedures and respond appropriately when needed.
- Attend and participate in required staff meetings.
- Provide emergency coverage as needed.
- Perform other related duties as requested.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Education Level
High school or GED
