Direct Support Professional

Sevita•Marion, IN

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional provides direct support within a single program or unit, typically serving 4–6 individuals in residential settings or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs. The role supports individuals according to their service or program plans, including assistance with socialization, health maintenance, medication administration, skill development, behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community integration, shopping, citizenship, and other activities of daily living. The position documents progress and activities, protects confidentiality and individual rights, supports health care and medication procedures when assigned, and communicates health or incident concerns as required. It may involve accompanying individuals to appointments or into the community, preparing meals according to planned menus and individual needs, and using medical equipment as directed. The employee attends required orientation and ongoing training and monthly staff meetings, works scheduled hours, contributes to a safe workplace, and may perform housekeeping, minor maintenance, yard work, and safety tasks. The position works at the program location and may accompany individuals into the community. Supervisory responsibilities: none. This is a non-exempt hourly role offered as full-time or part-time.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
At minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent is required for the New Jersey addendum; the general qualifications describe this as preferred.
Six months of human services experience is preferred.
Working knowledge of computers.
Valid driver's license in good standing; New Jersey employees must hold a valid license in their state of residence.
If providing transportation, have vehicle registration and insurance; maintain required insurance and obtain management approval to drive for the company.
Complete all state-required training and certifications within mandated timeframes and demonstrate proficiency in required training areas.
Submit to required drug testing, including pre-employment testing for employees hired after June 15, 2018, and random or cause/suspicion testing.
Submit to criminal background checks and be determined not disqualified by the Department of Human Services before working with individuals served.
Agree to Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and Child Abuse Registry Information (CARI) checks.
Cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff during inspections, inquiries, or investigations.
Meet company motor vehicle record requirements to drive on behalf of the company; employees who do not meet them must sign a Non-Driver form and may not drive until eligible.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent.
Six months of experience in human services.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support in accordance with individual service or program plans, including support with socialization, behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community orientation, shopping, financial management, citizenship, and activities of daily living.
Document progress and activities accurately, review records and logs for service-plan changes, and maintain confidentiality.
Make cost-effective and appropriate purchases within the individual's budget and according to their choices and preferences.
Maintain professional relationships with individuals served, friends, families, guardians, and case managers; greet visitors and follow customer service standards.
Report alleged abuse or neglect and medical, behavioral, or other incidents according to applicable policies and requirements.
Respect individuals' rights, assist them in exercising those rights, and practice universal precautions.
As needed, accompany individuals to medical appointments and relay information to and from medical providers.
If assigned, administer medications or support self-administration, document medications and treatments, report errors promptly, and secure medications and supplies appropriately.
Monitor and document health concerns, communicate with a nurse or supervisor as appropriate, call 911 in emergencies, and follow individual health care directives.
Use medical equipment according to procedures and report malfunction or disrepair.
Prepare or support individuals in preparing meals according to planned menus, individual choices, special diets, and dining plans.
Attend orientation, ongoing training, and monthly staff meetings; work scheduled hours and follow absence notification and shift coverage procedures.
Work cooperatively and respectfully with colleagues and communicate openly.
Follow workplace safety policies, report hazards, and participate in safety training or activities.
When transporting individuals, drive safely and lawfully, use safety equipment correctly, and report accidents and safety concerns promptly.
Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping and maintain a clean and safe environment.
Monitor environmental safety and, as needed, perform minor repairs, yard maintenance, or snow removal; report repair needs.
Check water temperature as required when assisting with bathing, participate in safety drills, and protect individuals served during emergencies.
Perform other duties and activities as required.