DSP II Open House (Port Jervis) - Thursday, November 19th, 2026
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional empowers people with developmental disabilities to live fulfilling lives by providing personalized support and fostering independence. The role promotes individual growth and quality of life while maintaining a supportive environment. The position implements and monitors plans of care, supports daily living activities, facilitates community participation, and helps individuals pursue goals outlined in person-centered plans. It also involves documenting progress and incidents, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and families, advocating for individuals’ rights and choices, and administering medications as prescribed.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid NY, NJ, CT, or PA driver’s license, with at least 6 months of experience and 6 or fewer points.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support people with developmental disabilities.
- Commitment to compassionate care and to promoting dignity and respect.
- Ability to respond effectively to changing needs and environments, with flexibility and problem-solving skills.
- Maintain confidentiality, uphold ethical standards, and follow agency policies and procedures.
- Demonstrated strong commitment to safety.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in direct care or human services.
- CPR and First Aid certification.
- Additional training in developmental disabilities, behavior management, or healthcare.
Responsibilities
- Implement and monitor plans of care, including Comprehensive Functional Assessments, Staff Action Plans, Life Plans, treatment plans, and Behavior Support Plans.
- Implement and document goals and objectives from person-centered plans, supporting social, vocational, and life skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement.
- Provide direct care and assistance with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and transportation.
- Facilitate community outings, recreational activities, and social events that promote inclusion, independence, and meaningful interactions.
- Accompany individuals to appointments and healthcare follow-ups.
- Use person-centered approaches and positive behavior support strategies to address challenging behaviors and maintain a safe, nurturing environment.
- Provide supervision and support appropriate to each person's medical, developmental, clinical, and emotional needs.
- Maintain accurate records, daily progress notes, and incident reports, and comply with agency policies and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals, therapists, family members, and interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement care plans.
- Advocate for individuals’ rights, choices, and preferences, and promote self-advocacy and empowerment in decision-making.
- Act as a custodian and mandated reporter in accordance with OPWDD, NYSJC, and organizational policies.
- Administer medications according to prescribed schedules, document administration, and monitor for adverse reactions or side effects.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
