Community Support Specialist-Day Services ( CDS Overhire)

Richcroft, Inc.

119d•Onsite

About The Position

The part-time Direct Support Professional (DSP) works in the Day Services Department, providing Community Development Services (CDS) and/or Day Habilitation Services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Under the supervision of the Director of Day Services, the DSP implements and supervises daily community engagement and integration based on each person's interests and needs. Activities may include social, fitness, arts, and sports programs, festivals, volunteer opportunities, and other community experiences intended to foster positive connections, socialization, lifelong learning, healthy recreation and leisure, and personal development. This community-based position requires reporting to the home of the person supported, transporting them to community programs throughout the day, and returning them home at the end of the program day. The schedule is Thursdays and Fridays, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The DSP provides coverage for groups in Howard and Baltimore Counties when primary staff are unavailable; when coverage is not needed, the DSP serves as a second staff member in an assigned group in Baltimore, Howard, or Harford Counties.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 20 years of age.
Full valid driver’s license (not a provisional license).
At least 2 years of driving experience and a clean driving record with no more than 3 points.
Access to a reliable vehicle for daily use with current automobile insurance.
Must have or be able to obtain CPR and First Aid certification.
Must successfully complete MANDT training.
Must be able to obtain CMT certification.
Must be fully vaccinated or subject to weekly testing.
Exceptional oral and written communication skills; ability to read, write, and speak English.
Ability to use technology for specified duties, including email, text messaging, and timekeeping.
In-depth working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Excel, and Word, and other technology.
Ability to work with individuals with a variety of disabilities, including potential exposure to aggressive, unpredictable behavior.
Ability to sit, stand, reach, walk, run, push, carry, manipulate objects or controls, kneel, stoop, or crawl for prolonged periods.
Ability to assist with transferring an adult in and out of a wheelchair and, when necessary, assist with personal care.
May occasionally need to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds or more.

Nice To Haves

Some college coursework in Therapeutic Recreation, Special Education, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field.
Experience working with adults with intellectual disabilities.
Background in recreation and leisure skill development.
Familiarity with iCare Manager (iCM).

Responsibilities

Provide coverage as the main staff member for groups in Howard and Baltimore Counties when primary staff are unavailable; otherwise serve as a second staff member in an assigned group in Baltimore, Howard, or Harford Counties.
Assist and supervise 2–5 individuals daily in community-based activities to support their success, integration, and engagement in their communities.
Transport people supported between their homes and community programs.
Ensure activity records, notes, goals, and other required reports are submitted accurately and on time.
Ensure compliance with COMAR, Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), and Richcroft regulations.
Communicate regularly with the supervisor about program enhancement opportunities and operational concerns.
Model appropriate behavior and monitor and redirect individuals’ behavior, including de-escalating anger and frustration, assisting with conflict resolution, and supporting focus on activities or volunteer duties.
Maintain communication with the department through written progress notes, meetings, and other agency communication channels.
Follow instructions and agency policies and procedures.
Assume other duties, responsibilities, and special projects as needed.
Attend and participate in in-service training, staff meetings, and other professional development activities.