Direct Support Professional (Full-Time, Part Time and Relief)

Pathway to Possible•Newton, MA

20d•Onsite

About The Position

Pathway to Possible is a congregate care facility providing independent and assisted living for adults with developmental disabilities in the Newton and Wellesley areas. The program supports adults referred by the Department of Developmental Services in developing self-sufficiency, independent living skills, productive participation in their residential program, and lifelong connections. The facility is responsible for maintaining a safe, healthy, and welcoming environment. The Direct Support Professional provides supervision, supportive companionship, and assistance to residents, including reminders about daily schedules and support with daily living. Staff are expected to serve as role models and build positive relationships with residents. The role works with program staff to support residents’ goals, safety, dignity, and participation in residential life. Pay is $22 per hour for DSP1 and $23 per hour for DSP2; exact compensation may vary based on skills and experience. The schedule is per diem, covering residential and overnight shifts to address temporary vacancies or absences.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Two to three years of experience working in a residential setting.
Demonstrated ability to engage with clients who exhibit challenging behaviors.
Ability to read and write English and proficiently document and update case records and logs.
First Aid/CPR certification, or ability to obtain it within one month of hire.
Ability to work with individuals with developmental disabilities and with diverse staff, clients, and volunteers.
Flexibility, a team-oriented approach, ability to work with minimal to moderate supervision, sound judgment, and proactive problem-solving.
Professional demeanor and strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
Ability to provide physical assistance to adults using wheelchairs.
Ability to evacuate supported individuals within 2½ minutes.
Ability to assist individuals with transferring from sitting to standing.
Legally authorized to work in the United States.
Valid Massachusetts driver’s license.
Clearance of CORI and SORI background checks as required by state and federal law.
Clearance of DPPC registry as required by state law.
Cleared fingerprint search through the DDS criminal background check.
Current MAP certification and ability to maintain MAP certification for the duration of employment.
Comfort working in an environment with a therapeutic cat.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or bachelor’s degree.

Responsibilities

Supervise residents and document activities in accordance with program policies and protocols, including during program-sponsored outings.
Provide supportive counseling and intervention to residents as needed.
Maintain shift coverage and provide primary supervision and support to residential clients.
Assist the Case Manager, House Manager, and Program Supervisor with monitoring residents’ compliance with daily expectations.
Help maintain a safe, dignified, and orderly environment by applying program rules, policies, procedures, and agency policies.
Assist the Case Manager in monitoring residents’ compliance with service-plan tasks and goals.
Model and support appropriate daily living skills, self-care, personal interaction, social relationships, and constructive time management.
Coordinate social activities for residents.
Accompany residents to appointments when necessary and participate in appointments as needed.
Become familiar with Pathway to Possible policies and procedures.
Maintain the program’s daily logbook and record residents’ activities, issues, and problems.
Maintain residents’ case records in accordance with program guidelines.
If MAP certified, administer and record medications in the medical log.
Facilitate informal discussions with residents and staff about house issues, maintenance, schedules, and other program matters.
Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and respond to client requests professionally and courteously while protecting confidentiality.
Help ensure facility access is limited to residents, staff, authorized visitors, and service providers, and maintain adequate health and safety standards.
Perform daily maintenance, cleaning, and kitchen duties, including upkeep of rooms, kitchen and dining areas, common areas, and office areas.
Assist with serving resident meals as needed.
Help maintain positive community relations.
Respond appropriately to emergencies, contact appropriate staff, interact with emergency personnel as needed, and contact the on-call agency worker according to program guidelines.
Promote a cooperative, harmonious, and respectful workplace and communicate with team members to support consistency and teamwork.
Provide professional reception services, relay timely and accurate messages, and provide information about available services upon request.
Complete assigned shift-specific tasks and other duties as assigned.