Direct Support Professional MPA

Sevita•Brenham, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional provides direct support within a single program or program unit, typically supporting 4–6 individuals in residential settings or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs. The role follows individual service and program plans and supports socialization, health maintenance, medication administration, skill and behavioral development, personal care, household tasks, recreation, transportation, community integration, shopping, citizenship, and other activities of daily living. The position also involves maintaining accurate and confidential records; supporting individuals’ rights and relationships; reporting suspected abuse, neglect, and incidents; assisting with health care, medication, meals, and medical equipment as assigned; and helping maintain a safe, clean environment. Employees attend training and staff meetings, work scheduled shifts, cooperate with coworkers, and may transport individuals or perform minor maintenance and seasonal housekeeping tasks. The position is non-exempt and hourly, and may be full-time or part-time. MPA means Mobile Punch Authorized for timekeeping.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
For the New Jersey addendum, a high school diploma or equivalent is required; the general job description lists it as preferred.
Working knowledge of computers.
Valid driver’s license in good standing; New Jersey employees must hold a valid license in New Jersey unless commuting from another state, in which case a valid license in their state of residence is required.
If providing transportation, car registration and vehicle insurance are required; drivers must meet insurance requirements and receive management approval to drive for the company.
Complete all state-required training and certifications within mandated timeframes and demonstrate proficiency in required training areas.
Employees hired after 6/15/2018 must submit to pre-employment drug testing; employees are also subject to random and for-cause/suspicion drug testing.
Must submit to criminal background checks and be determined not disqualified by the Department of Human Services before working with individuals served.
Must agree to checks of the Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and submit an application for a Child Abuse Registry Information (CARI) check.
Must meet company motor vehicle record requirements to drive on behalf of the company; employees who do not meet them must sign a Non-Driver form and may not drive until they meet the requirements.
Must be able to perform heavy work: exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds constantly to move objects.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent (listed as preferred in the general requirements; the New Jersey addendum requires it).
Six months of experience in human services.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support or assistance in accordance with individual service or program plans.
Support socialization, behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community orientation, shopping, financial management, citizenship, and other activities of daily living.
Accurately document progress and activities, review records and logs for service-plan changes, and maintain confidentiality.
Make appropriate, cost-effective purchases within the individual’s budget and in accordance with their choices and preferences.
Maintain healthy, professional relationships with individuals served, friends, families, guardians, and case managers; greet visitors and follow Sevita Customer Service Standards.
Report alleged abuse or neglect and medical, behavioral, or other incidents according to applicable policies and requirements.
Respect individuals’ rights, maintain confidentiality, follow universal precautions, and assist individuals in exercising their rights.
As needed, accompany individuals to medical appointments and relay orders or information to and from medical providers.
If assigned, administer or support self-administration of medication, document medications and treatments, report errors promptly, and secure medications and supplies appropriately.
Monitor health, document concerns, communicate with a nurse or supervisor, call 911 in emergencies, and follow individual health care directives.
Use medical equipment according to procedures and report malfunction or disrepair.
Prepare or support preparation of meals according to menus, individual preferences, and special diets; monitor mealtimes and follow dining plans.
Attend orientation, ongoing training, and monthly staff meetings.
Work scheduled hours, arrive on time, remain until a replacement arrives, and notify a supervisor when unable to work as scheduled; may fill in for other shifts when required, without unapproved overtime, or in an emergency.
Collaborate respectfully with coworkers and communicate openly.
Follow workplace safety policies and procedures, report hazards, and participate in safety-related training or activities.
When transporting individuals, drive safely and lawfully, use seat belts, lifts, and wheelchair ties properly, and report accidents and safety concerns promptly.
Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping and maintain a neat, clean, safe environment.
Monitor environmental safety; may make minor repairs, change light bulbs, perform yard maintenance, and help keep walkways safe, including snow removal.
Check water temperature as required when assisting with bathing, participate in safety drills, and protect individuals served during emergencies.
Perform other duties and activities as required.
Cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff during inspections, inquiries, or investigations.