Direct Support Professional (Weekends Only)

Pathway to Possible•Newton, MA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Pathway to Possible is a congregate care facility providing independent and assisted living for adults with developmental disabilities in the Newton and Wellesley areas. The program supports adults referred by the Department of Developmental Services in building self-sufficiency, independent living skills, and lifelong connections. It provides residents with a safe, healthy, and welcoming environment. The Direct Support Professional reminds residents of their daily schedules and provides supportive companionship, supervision, and assistance. Staff are expected to serve as positive role models and build constructive relationships with residents. This position is described as full-time, part-time, and relief, with per diem residential and overnight shifts to cover temporary vacancies or absences. The listed pay is $22–$23 per hour, depending on skills and experience. The position is located in Newton, Massachusetts, and reports to the Program Manager.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Two to three years of experience working in a residential setting.
Demonstrated ability to engage with clients who exhibit challenging behaviors.
Ability to read and write English and proficiently document and update case records and logs.
First Aid/CPR certification, or ability to obtain it within one month of hire.
Ability to work with people with developmental disabilities and with diverse staff, clients, and volunteers.
Flexibility, a team-oriented approach, ability to work with minimal to moderate supervision, sound judgment, and proactive problem-solving skills.
Professional demeanor and strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
Ability to provide physical assistance to adults using wheelchairs.
Ability to evacuate supported individuals within 2½ minutes.
Ability to assist individuals with transfers from sitting to standing.
Legally authorized to work in the United States.
Valid Massachusetts driver’s license.
Clearance of CORI and SORI background checks as required by state and federal law.
Clearance of the DPPC registry as required by state law.
Current MAP certification and ability to maintain MAP certification throughout employment.
Comfort working in an environment with a therapeutic cat.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or bachelor’s degree.

Responsibilities

Supervise residents, document activities in accordance with program policies, and follow all protocols during program-sponsored activities.
Provide supportive counseling and intervention to residents as needed.
Maintain shift coverage and provide primary supervision and support to residential clients.
Assist the Case Manager, House Manager, and Program Supervisor in monitoring residents’ compliance with daily expectations.
Help maintain a safe, dignified, and orderly environment by following and enforcing program rules, policies, and procedures.
Assist the Case Manager in monitoring residents’ compliance with service-plan tasks and goals.
Model and support appropriate daily living skills, self-care, personal interactions, social relationships, and constructive time management.
Coordinate social activities for residents.
Accompany residents to appointments when necessary and participate in appointments when required.
Learn and follow Pathway to Possible policies and procedures.
Maintain the daily logbook and record residents’ activities, issues, and problems.
Maintain residents’ case records in accordance with program guidelines.
If MAP certified, administer medications and record them in the medical log.
Facilitate regular informal discussions with residents and staff about house issues, maintenance, schedules, and other program matters.
Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and respond to resident requests professionally and courteously while protecting confidentiality.
Help restrict facility access to residents, staff, authorized visitors, and service providers, and help maintain health and safety standards.
Perform daily maintenance, cleaning, and kitchen duties, including upkeep of rooms, kitchen and dining areas, common areas, and offices.
Assist with serving resident meals as needed.
Help maintain positive community relations.
Respond appropriately to emergencies, contact appropriate staff, interact with emergency personnel as needed, and contact the on-call agency worker according to program guidelines.
Promote a cooperative, harmonious, and respectful team environment among staff.
Provide professional reception, relay timely and accurate messages, and provide information about available services when requested.
Complete assigned shift-specific tasks and other duties as assigned.