Direct Support Professional (Columbia)

Kennedy Krieger Institute•Baltimore, MD

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional / Community Development Specialist provides direct training and support to individuals with disabilities in personal supports, community engagement, and job-related skills. Most of the workday is spent supporting individuals in the community to foster independence in employment, volunteer opportunities, and life and leisure activities. The position requires travel in and around the Columbia area.

Requirements

Documented First Aid Certification upon hire; certification must be maintained.
Obtain documented CPR and MANDT certifications within the first 30 days of employment and maintain them.
Obtain and pass all DDA-required training within the first 90 days of employment and repeat training as needed to maintain credentials.
Proficiency collaborating with professional teams, including mental health, medical, related services, educational planning, and career planning teams.
Valid, unrestricted driver’s license and a clean driving record under 5 points.
Clean, reliable vehicle and active auto insurance.
High school diploma, certificate of completion, or GED.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Human Services, or a related field.
At least one year of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities

Provide direct services at individuals’ places of employment or volunteer opportunities, in the community, and in their homes to help them meet personal goals.
Promote community-member safety during scheduled program hours through staff supervision, proactive community awareness, and communication with department leadership.
Transport participants for specified program activities in and around the greater Baltimore/Washington metropolitan area.
Participate in developing and implementing behavior management and Individual Plans, and provide interventions, coaching, and support in accordance with each plan and individual need.
Assist with daily living skills, such as cleaning, cooking, hygiene, budgeting, and banking, and with personal care, including eating, toileting, and dressing, based on individual needs.
Complete Maryland state-mandated service documentation accurately and on time, including daily notes and relevant behavioral data sheets.
Develop and implement natural supports and other accommodations to facilitate individuals’ success at work and integration into the community.
Attend and participate in scheduled team meetings and trainings.
Ensure assigned individuals comply with safety regulations and procedures at job, vocational training, and volunteer sites.
Collaborate with clients to research, develop, and implement weekly schedules.
Complete administrative work and team-assigned projects in a timely manner.