DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Jay Nolan Community Services•Seaside, CA

4d•$20 - $23

About The Position

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Jay Nolan Community Services (JNCS), you provide individualized, one-to-one support to people with autism and other developmental disabilities, helping them live with dignity, independence, and choice. DSPs support people to build relationships, live safely in their own homes, and pursue personal, educational, and career goals. The role emphasizes empowering people to do things for themselves rather than doing things for them, with the goal of supporting independent and fulfilling lives. The position is part of the Supported Living program in Seaside, California, and is scheduled for two days per week. Typical activities include accompanying clients to community activities, supporting household chores and errands, attending medical appointments, planning and following schedules, walking in the neighborhood, providing companionship and emotional support, and helping clients connect with friends and loved ones. Wheelchair transfers and personal hygiene assistance may be part of the work when applicable. JNCS is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides individualized support to children, teens, and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities so they may live, work, and thrive in their homes and communities. It describes its workplace as inclusive, supportive, and community-oriented and states that it is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance, on a case-by-case basis.

Nice To Haves

Personal or professional experience working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide one-to-one direct support to people with autism and intellectual and/or developmental disabilities to help them achieve the highest possible level of independence.
Act as a mentor and role model for socially acceptable and culturally valued ways of interacting and supporting one another.
Support individuals with behavioral, physical, communication, and other challenges in their homes and communities.
Implement the individual's Support Plan (ISP) as developed.
Help individuals maintain personal safety and well-being.
Support individuals in establishing daily or weekly activity schedules to maximize independence.
Stay up to date with required training and certifications.
Participate hands-on in activities.
Accompany clients to activities such as hobby groups, classes, or the gym.
Support clients with household chores, errands, and medical appointments.
Help clients plan and stay on schedule.
Provide companionship and emotional support.
Support clients in connecting with friends and loved ones, virtually or in person.
Assist with wheelchair transfers and personal hygiene when applicable.