Direct Support Professional (CLS)
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional supports people living in the Community Living Services program to maintain a high quality of life. The role promotes the agency’s mission and guiding principles while supporting individuals’ self-care, health, safety, household routines, socialization, community participation, and overall wellbeing. Support should be provided at the level necessary to encourage each individual’s independence and engagement in daily life. The position embraces diversity and works to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where individuals feel valued. The employee supports equitable and culturally aware interactions, follows individual treatment plans, uses required adaptive and safety equipment, documents services, and collaborates with the interdisciplinary team. The role also includes transportation, household support, medication assistance, mentoring new staff, and maintaining required training and certifications.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Submit a valid New York State driver’s license and maintain qualified driver status throughout employment.
- Transfer an out-of-state driver’s license to New York State within 30 days of hire, if applicable.
- Ability to communicate and understand written and oral directives and information.
- Ability to meet physical demands that may include lifting and transferring children and/or adults; inability to meet these demands may affect employment.
- Successful fingerprint and criminal background check.
- Complete training on Personal Outcome Measures (POM) before completing evaluations and assessments.
Responsibilities
- Provide guidance and support to individuals with intellectual and other disabilities, encouraging participation and independence in daily routines and valued outcomes.
- Support individuals in becoming active community members 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 required adaptive and safety equipment to promote independence and protect individuals’ health, safety, and wellbeing.
- Support meal preparation and teach diet adherence, portion control, and cooking skills.
- Assist with medication administration according to 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 goals 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
