DSP II Open House (Port Jervis) - Thursday, November 19th, 2026
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional empowers persons with developmental disabilities to live fulfilling lives by providing personalized support and fostering independence. The role promotes individual growth and quality of life in a supportive environment. The position is based on-site in Port Jervis, New York. The posting lists a salary of $22.54–$24.79 per hour and also gives a salary range of $19.54 per hour, with an education additive of $0.15 per hour for an associate’s degree or $0.80 per hour for a bachelor’s degree or higher. The role implements and monitors individual plans of care, including assessments, staff action plans, life plans, treatment plans, and behavior support plans. It supports daily living, personal goals, community participation, healthcare follow-up, and medication administration while maintaining accurate documentation and working with interdisciplinary teams. The position also advocates for the rights, choices, and preferences of the people supported and fulfills custodian and mandated reporter responsibilities in accordance with applicable policies.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid NY, NJ, CT, or PA driver’s license, with at least six months of experience and six or fewer points.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support persons with developmental disabilities.
- Commitment to compassionate care and to promoting dignity and respect.
- Ability to respond effectively to changing needs and environments, with flexibility and problem-solving skills.
- Maintain confidentiality, uphold ethical standards, and follow agency policies and procedures.
- Demonstrated strong commitment to safety.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in direct care or human services.
- CPR and First Aid certification.
- Additional training in developmental disabilities, behavior management, or healthcare.
- Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree or higher; the posting lists education additives for these credentials.
Responsibilities
- Implement and monitor plans of care for persons supported, including comprehensive functional assessments, staff action plans, life plans, treatment plans, and behavior support plans.
- Implement and document goals and objectives from person-centered plans, supporting social, vocational, and life skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement.
- Provide direct care and assistance with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and transportation.
- Facilitate community outings, recreation, and social events to promote inclusion, independence, and meaningful interactions.
- Accompany individuals to appointments and healthcare follow-up.
- Use person-centered approaches and positive behavior support strategies to address challenging behaviors and maintain a safe, nurturing environment.
- Provide the level of supervision and support required for medical, developmental, clinical, emotional, and other needs.
- Maintain accurate records, daily progress notes, and incident reports, complying with agency policies and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals, therapists, family members, and interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement comprehensive care plans.
- Advocate for individuals’ rights, choices, and preferences, and promote self-advocacy and participation in decision-making.
- Fulfill custodian and mandated reporter responsibilities under OPWDD, NYSJC, and organizational policies.
- Administer medications as prescribed, accurately document administration, and monitor for adverse reactions or side effects.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
