FT Direct Support Professional
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional provides supervision and guidance to individuals with disabilities who reside in a group home. The role involves supporting individuals with personal care, medication management, crisis management, daily living skills, emotional issues, and community integration. The position is located at Third Street in Towanda, Pennsylvania, and lists a schedule of Sunday 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Monday and Tuesday 2 p.m.–9 p.m., and Wednesday 9 p.m.–9 a.m. The posting describes the position as full time, while also including general classifications for substitute, part-time, and full-time employees. The employee is expected to follow agency policies and applicable regulations, support individuals’ choices and independence, complete accurate documentation, communicate with supervisors, and maintain confidentiality. Work may involve evenings, overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays, and may include supporting people whose challenging behaviors can include physical or verbal aggression, self-harm, or property destruction. The role may also involve occasional exposure to communicable diseases. A pre-employment physical and a physical with a Mantoux TB test are required upon hire.
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent, or experience in the field.
- No criminal record.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Maintain Medication Administration Certification.
- Complete a pre-employment physical and a physical with a Mantoux TB test upon hire.
- Able to lift 40–100 pounds unassisted and 100 pounds or more with assistance.
- Able to reach above the head and below the knees.
- Able to perform repetitive motions with both hands.
- Able to reach out to pull and push a wheelchair.
- Able to twist and bend at the waist.
- Able to react effectively to protect personal space.
Responsibilities
- Follow agency policies and procedures and ensure compliance with applicable regulations and updated ODP requirements.
- Perform duties in accordance with the agency’s mission and vision.
- Identify individuals’ strengths, needs, and goals.
- Implement Individual Service Plans (ISPs) and document outcomes accurately and on time.
- Complete at least 24 hours of training annually, including mandatory and supervisor-assigned training.
- Attend and participate in staff meetings.
- Use or learn computers for daily documentation and training.
- Assist with or perform personal care, including tooth-brushing, toileting, bathing, dressing, and feeding.
- Serve as a positive role model for individuals.
- Provide opportunities for individuals to integrate into and receive support within their communities.
- Perform housekeeping tasks such as vacuuming, shopping, laundry, and mopping.
- Provide support and problem-solving techniques to individuals.
- Communicate effectively and promptly with the immediate supervisor.
- Administer medication and maintain Medication Administration Certification.
- Advocate for individuals in their community relationships.
- Identify workplace safety issues and injuries and report them immediately.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical requirements.
- Encourage individuals’ independence in daily skills and teach skills as needed.
- Encourage and respect choices made by individuals.
- Complete required documentation in the agency-approved electronic health record and follow related agency documentation policies.
- Assist individuals with emotional issues by providing support, education, and solutions.
- Escalate incidents identified in the Incident Management Bulletin to a point person.
- Use positive and respectful language with supervisors, coworkers, and individuals.
- Use and model the everyday life philosophy when supporting individuals.
- Perform related tasks as assigned by the immediate supervisor.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
