DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL-HOURLY

Apis Services Inc•Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ

32d•Onsite

About The Position

Advancing Opportunities is seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in achieving greater independence, community involvement, and personal success. As a DSP, you will play a meaningful role in helping individuals lead fulfilling lives by providing person-centered support in residential and community settings. If you are passionate about helping others, enjoy building relationships, and want a career with purpose, we encourage you to apply.

Requirements

High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
At least 21 years of age.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to pass required background checks and screenings.
Ability to obtain and maintain CPR, First Aid, and other required certifications.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to build positive relationships with individuals served, families, and team members.
Understanding of person-centered practices and trauma-informed care.
Knowledge of developmental disabilities and behavioral support principles.
Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills.
Good judgment, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic documentation systems.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a team.
Professionalism and composure during crises or high-stress situations.
Commitment to ethical practices, confidentiality, and high-quality care.
Ability to lift, move, or assist with transferring individuals and objects weighing up to 50 pounds or more, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, climb stairs, and perform physical support activities throughout the workday.
Ability to drive agency or personal vehicles when transporting individuals.
Ability to work in residential homes and community-based environments.

Nice To Haves

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, or a related field.
Six months to one year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or working in a human services setting.

Responsibilities

Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene and grooming, dressing and personal care, meal planning and preparation, housekeeping and laundry, and household organization and basic home maintenance.
Encourage independence, self-advocacy, and life skill development.
Promote dignity, choice, privacy, and respect in all interactions.
Support participation in recreational, educational, vocational, religious, and social activities.
Implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs), Individual Habilitation Plans (IHPs), and Behavior Support Plans (BSPs).
Teach and reinforce skills that support personal growth and independence.
Monitor progress toward individual goals and provide feedback to the support team.
Assist with assessments and contribute valuable observations regarding strengths, needs, and support recommendations.
Monitor the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served.
Administer medications and complete medication-related documentation in accordance with agency policies and training requirements.
Respond appropriately to medical, behavioral, and emergency situations.
Report incidents, injuries, abuse, neglect, exploitation, or safety concerns in accordance with agency and state regulations.
Maintain required certifications, including CPR and First Aid.
Transport individuals safely to appointments, employment sites, day programs, community events, and family visits.
Encourage meaningful community participation and relationship building.
Support individuals in becoming active and engaged members of their communities.
Complete accurate and timely daily logs, progress and goal notes, medication administration records, incident reports, behavioral documentation, seizure, sleep, weight, and bowel movement tracking logs, vehicle and transportation records, and consumer fund documentation.
Maintain HIPAA compliance and confidentiality standards.
Follow all agency policies, DDD standards, and state licensing requirements.
Participate in audits, inspections, home reviews, and compliance activities as required.
Work closely with Residential Managers, Lead DSPs, clinicians, families, and other support professionals.
Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.
Assist with on-call responsibilities, emergency coverage, and special projects as needed.
Perform additional duties to support quality services and organizational success.