Direct Support Professional (CLS)

AHRC Nassau • Lakeview, NY

2d

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional supports people living in the Community Living Services program and promotes the agency’s mission and guiding principles. The role helps individuals maintain a high quality of life through support with self-care, health, safety, household responsibilities, socialization, and overall wellbeing. Support should be limited to what each person needs to encourage independence and participation in daily life. The position promotes community involvement, natural relationships, diversity, equity, and an inclusive environment.

The role also supports individuals’ health and safety by following treatment plans, using adaptive and safety equipment, assisting with meals and medication administration, and documenting services and progress. The Direct Support Professional participates in interdisciplinary and house meetings, provides transportation, and mentors new Direct Support Staff. Regular and substantial unsupervised or unrestricted physical contact with people receiving services is required, making successful fingerprint and criminal background checks necessary. Personal Outcome Measures (POM) training is required before completing evaluations and assessments. Duties may evolve at the organization’s discretion.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid New York State driver’s license and maintenance of qualified driver status throughout employment.
• If holding an out-of-state driver’s license, transfer it to New York State within 30 days of hire.
• Ability to communicate and understand written and oral directives and information.
• Ability to meet physical demands, which may include lifting and transferring children and/or adults.

Responsibilities

• Provide ongoing guidance and support to individuals with intellectual and other disabilities, including support with self-care, health, safety, household chores, socialization, and wellbeing.
• Provide only the level of support needed to promote each individual’s independence and engagement in daily routines.
• Support individuals in becoming active members of the community and in maintaining and building natural supports and relationships.
• Help maintain a safe and clean home by supporting individuals with household chores and participating in chores as needed.
• Follow treatment plans and use applicable adaptive and safety equipment to promote independence and protect individuals’ health, safety, and wellbeing.
• Support meal preparation by teaching diet adherence, portion control, and cooking skills.
• Assist with medication administration in accordance with AMAP policies and procedures.
• Implement and document treatment plans and agency materials, including residential habilitation goals, medical case notes, and communication logs.
• Follow overtime, scheduling, and minimum staffing policies and procedures.
• Attend and participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss progress and goal achievement and exchange information and ideas.
• Transport individuals to medical appointments, shopping, recreational outings, and other destinations as needed.
• Mentor new Direct Support Staff by demonstrating support routines and reviewing training manuals.
• Participate in House Meetings and maintain required certifications and training.
• Perform other duties as requested by the supervisor.
• Complete fingerprint and criminal background checks successfully.
• Complete Personal Outcome Measures (POM) training before conducting evaluations and assessments.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED