Direct Support Professional (Full Time, Evenings) - Watertown, CT

Oak Hill • Watertown, CT

2d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll support individuals in living healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling lives by providing comprehensive support across various aspects of their daily lives. This includes assisting with personal care, health monitoring, medication administration, community inclusion, meal preparation, physical support, documentation, and emergency response. You will work collaboratively with a team to ensure the well-being and independence of the individuals served.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license with the ability to transport individuals in agency vehicles.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks, fingerprinting, and pre-employment health screenings.
• Ability to complete required training programs and maintain necessary certifications.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and professional work environment in accordance with Oak Hill policies.
• Commitment to continuity of care, including an occasional need to stay beyond a scheduled shift until coverage is in place.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), caregiver, home health aide, behavioral health technician, or in a related human services role.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Supporting Daily Living Activities: Assisting with personal care, grooming, bathing, dressing, and hygiene needs, based on individual preferences and support plans. Providing assistance with continence care as needed. Encouraging independence and skill development whenever possible.
• Supporting Health and Wellness: Monitoring and documenting health-related information, including vital signs when required. Administering medications and maintaining accurate medication records in accordance with training, certification requirements, and nursing directives. Following individualized health care plans and supporting overall well-being.
• Promoting Community Inclusion: Transporting individuals to appointments, recreational activities, community events, and other destinations using agency vehicles. Encouraging participation in community life, social opportunities, and personal interests.
• Assisting with Nutrition and Mealtime Support: Preparing meals and snacks according to menus, dietary requirements, and personal preferences. Providing support during meals as needed.
• Providing Physical Support: Assisting individuals with mobility and transfers using approved techniques, adaptive equipment, lift systems, ramps, and wheelchair securement devices as required.
• Maintaining Documentation and Compliance: Accurately documenting daily activities, health information, progress notes, incidents, and medication administration in the electronic health record (EHR). Following all applicable Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and regulatory requirements.
• Responding to Emergencies and Behavioral Needs: Following established emergency procedures and safety protocols. Implementing behavioral support strategies and documenting related activities. Applying trained intervention techniques and administering First Aid/CPR when required.
• Working as a Team: Communicating effectively with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, family members, and other stakeholders. Participating in required meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development.

Benefits

• Paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire.
• Career mobility opportunities after six months, including transfers and additional shift opportunities.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, personal days, and holidays.
• Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with an annual Oak Hill contribution equal to 9.5% of eligible gross earnings, regardless of employee contribution.
• Employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance options, including employer-paid coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement and career development opportunities.
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED