DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Jay Nolan Community Services•Santa Clarita, CA

5h•$20 - $23

About The Position

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Jay Nolan Community Services (JNCS), you provide individualized support to people with autism and other developmental disabilities, helping them live with dignity, independence, and choice. You support individuals in building relationships, living safely in their own homes, and pursuing personal, educational, and career goals. Rather than doing tasks for people, DSPs encourage them to do things themselves and empower them to live independently. The role provides one-to-one support in an individual’s home and community. Typical activities include accompanying clients to hobby groups, classes, or the gym; helping with household chores, errands, and medical appointments; planning and keeping to schedules; taking neighborhood walks; providing companionship and emotional support; and helping individuals connect with friends and loved ones. Wheelchair transfers and personal-hygiene assistance may be required when applicable. JNCS is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting children, teens, and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities so they may live, work, and thrive in their homes and communities. The organization describes its workplace as inclusive, supportive, and community-oriented and is a Certified Great Place to Work. JNCS is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance may be required on a case-by-case basis.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, personally or professionally, is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide one-to-one direct support to people with autism and intellectual and/or developmental disabilities to help them achieve their highest possible level of independence.
Act as a mentor and role model for socially acceptable and culturally valued ways to interact and support one another.
Support individuals with behavioral, physical, communication, and other challenges in their homes and communities.
Implement the individual’s Support Plan (ISP) as developed.
Assist individuals in maintaining their personal safety and well-being.
Support individuals in establishing daily and weekly activity schedules to maximize independence.
Stay up to date with required training and certifications.
Participate hands-on in activities.
Accompany clients to activities such as hobby groups, classes, or the gym.
Support clients with daily chores, errands, and medical appointments.
Help clients plan and stay on schedule.
Provide companionship and emotional support.
Help clients connect with friends and loved ones, virtually or in person.
Provide wheelchair transfers and personal-hygiene assistance when applicable.