Direct Support Professional

Oak Hill • Coventry, CT

20d • Onsite

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional supports individuals in living healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling lives. The role assists with daily living activities and personal care according to individual preferences and support plans, promotes independence and skill development, and supports health and wellness by monitoring and documenting health information, administering medications as authorized, and following individualized health care plans.

The position promotes community inclusion by transporting individuals in agency vehicles and encouraging participation in community activities and personal interests. It also involves preparing meals and providing mealtime support; assisting with mobility and transfers using approved techniques and equipment; maintaining accurate records in the electronic health record; and complying with Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and other applicable requirements.

The Direct Support Professional follows emergency and safety procedures, implements behavioral support strategies, uses trained intervention techniques, and provides First Aid/CPR when required. The role requires effective communication with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, families, and other stakeholders, along with participation in required meetings, training, and professional development. This is a 40-hour-per-week union, non-exempt, overtime-eligible position scheduled Sunday through Wednesday, 11 p.m. to 9 a.m., in Coventry, Connecticut. Compensation is $20.39 per hour base rate, with differential pay available for specific schedules.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license and ability to transport individuals in agency vehicles.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks, fingerprinting, and pre-employment health screenings.
• Ability to complete required training programs and maintain necessary certifications.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and professional work environment in accordance with Oak Hill policies.
• Commitment to continuity of care, including occasionally staying beyond a scheduled shift until coverage is in place.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), caregiver, home health aide, behavioral health technician, or in a related human services role.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist with personal care, grooming, bathing, dressing, hygiene, and continence care according to individual preferences and support plans.
• Encourage individuals’ independence and skill development.
• Monitor and document health-related information, including vital signs when required.
• Administer medications and maintain accurate medication records in accordance with training, certification requirements, and nursing directives.
• Follow individualized health care plans and support individuals’ overall well-being.
• Transport individuals in agency vehicles to appointments, recreational activities, community events, and other destinations.
• Encourage participation in community life, social opportunities, and personal interests.
• Prepare meals and snacks according to menus, dietary requirements, and personal preferences, and provide support during meals as needed.
• Assist with mobility and transfers using approved techniques and adaptive equipment, lift systems, ramps, and wheelchair securement devices as required.
• Document daily activities, health information, progress notes, incidents, and medication administration in the electronic health record.
• Follow applicable Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and regulatory requirements.
• Follow emergency procedures and safety protocols; implement behavioral support strategies and document related activities.
• Apply trained intervention techniques and administer First Aid/CPR when required.
• Communicate with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, family members, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in required meetings, training, and ongoing professional development.
• Occasionally stay beyond a scheduled shift until coverage is in place to support continuity of care.

Benefits

• Paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire.
• Career mobility opportunities after six months, including transfers and additional shift opportunities.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick time, personal days, and holidays.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) retirement plan with an annual Oak Hill contribution equal to 9.5% of eligible gross earnings, regardless of employee contribution.
• Employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance options, including employer-paid coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement and career development opportunities.
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs.

What This Job Offers

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