Per Diem Direct Support Professional

Waypoint Maine•Kennebunk, ME

About The Position

The Residential Per Diem Direct Support Professional (DSP) supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in developing connections, healthy relationships, communication, independence, and personally satisfying lifestyles. The DSP helps members build skills, exercise self-determination, and pursue growth while maintaining a safe, supportive environment in which members are treated with dignity and respect. The role supports each member’s interests, culture, and needs and promotes respectful interactions. The DSP works as part of a team and represents Waypoint professionally in the community, with parents and guardians, and in members’ residences or programs. The position requires professional values, ethical conduct, responsibility, and confidentiality. Per diem staff are not guaranteed a set number of hours, may not work more than 25 hours in a one-week period, and must work at least 12 hours every two months to remain active.

Requirements

Position experience is not required; must want to work with individuals with intellectual disabilities and be willing to learn and support people living with complex disabilities.
Willingness to implement positive behavior support and structured activities, collect accurate treatment and behavior data, and communicate effectively with members, families, coworkers, and other professionals.
High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver’s license from state of residence and a clean driving record.
Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English.
Must have or acquire through training the information technology skills needed for time and attendance, service documentation, training, and communication with supervisors and coworkers.
Ability to perform the described physical activities, including standing, walking, running short distances, kneeling, bending, twisting, grasping, reaching overhead, pushing and pulling personal care equipment, and independently lifting up to 50 pounds using safe body mechanics.
Ability to implement Safety Care techniques to escort members and establish member safety in emergencies or as required by support plans.
Ability to hear normal speech and receive detailed oral information, and close visual acuity for data collection, instruction, and use of technology and computer screens.

Responsibilities

Develop rapport with residents and cultivate safe, supportive relationships.
Support and guide members during skill-building activities.
Implement members’ individual treatment plans and positive support plans.
Encourage self-help skills by assisting with daily living activities, including meal preparation, maintaining a clean and healthy environment, and personal hygiene.
Transport residents in approved vehicles for activities and medical appointments as required.
Use sound judgment to safeguard members and notify the House Manager of situations that could negatively affect home operations or member welfare and safety.
Respect members’ privacy and confidentiality.
Accurately record expenditures from member funds and agency funds.
Comply with licensing, MaineCare, Person-Centered Planning, and Waypoint policy and procedural requirements.
Collect accurate, timely data and update members’ ISP progress notes, treatment plans, and positive support plans at the required frequency to track progress toward goals and outcomes.
Follow mandated reporter guidelines for reportable events.
Conduct oneself professionally, collaboratively, and positively; maintain cooperative relationships with staff and resolve conflicts promptly.
Work as part of a team and accept direction, constructive feedback, and information from the House Manager and team.
Maintain a consistent and punctual work record.
Provide flexible support across residential settings as needed.
Promote safety, maintain a clean and orderly residence or program site, follow cleaning routines and checklists, and initiate household upkeep as needed.
Follow agency safety standards and procedures.
Report safety or maintenance needs to the Home Manager through internal Maintenance Department protocols.
Follow transportation policies and identify vehicle maintenance concerns.
Perform other duties as assigned.