DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Jay Nolan Community Services•Arcadia, CA

16h•$20 - $23

About The Position

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Jay Nolan Community Services (JNCS), you provide individualized, one-to-one support to people with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. You help individuals live with dignity, independence, and choice by supporting them to build relationships, live safely in their own homes, and pursue personal, educational, and career goals. DSPs encourage people to do things for themselves rather than doing tasks for them, with the aim of empowering them to live independently and fulfilled lives. The role involves supporting individuals in their homes and communities with varied behavioral, physical, and communication needs. Typical activities include accompanying clients to hobby groups, classes, the gym, walks, errands, and medical appointments; helping them plan and follow schedules and complete household chores; providing companionship and emotional support; facilitating connections with friends and loved ones; and, when applicable, assisting with wheelchair transfers and personal hygiene. JNCS is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving 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 itself as an inclusive, supportive, and community-oriented workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance, depending on the case.

Nice To Haves

Personal or professional experience working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities 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.
Help individuals maintain their personal safety and well-being.
Support individuals in establishing daily and weekly activity schedules to maximize independence.
Stay current 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 household chores, errands, and medical appointments.
Help clients plan and stay on schedule.
Accompany clients on neighborhood walks.
Provide companionship and emotional support.
Help clients connect with friends and loved ones, virtually or in person.
Assist with wheelchair transfers when applicable.
Assist with personal hygiene when applicable.