DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Advancing Opportunities, Inc.•Toms River, NJ

6d•$20 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

Advancing Opportunities is seeking a compassionate and dependable Direct Support Professional to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living meaningful, fulfilling, and independent lives. The role provides person-centered assistance that promotes each individual’s independence, health, safety, personal goals, dignity, and quality of life. The employer provides training and support, with opportunities for professional development, certifications, leadership development, and career advancement. The position is part-time in Toms River, New Jersey, and is scheduled Friday through Monday, 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Weekend availability is required. Schedules may change with program and business needs; additional shifts, evenings, holidays, or work at another program location may occasionally be required. Pay is $19.50 per hour, or $20.50 per hour for weekend hours. DailyPay is available, and benefit eligibility may vary based on employment status and plan requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent certificate.
At least 21 years of age.
Valid driver’s license and a clean, acceptable motor vehicle record.
Ability to meet applicable vehicle, registration, and insurance requirements.
Ability to read, write, communicate, and complete documentation in English.
Basic computer skills, including email, Microsoft Office, electronic timekeeping, and documentation applications.
Ability to complete required pre-employment screenings, including criminal background, drug, CARI, Central Registry, and other required checks.
Ability to complete required training, including CPR and First Aid.
Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with individuals, families, coworkers, supervisors, funding sources, and community providers.
Ability to perform the essential physical functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to stand or work for up to six to eight hours during a shift and sit for approximately two to three hours during a shift.
Ability to drive a company vehicle for approximately one to four hours during a shift.
Ability to stand, walk, reach, bend, stoop, twist, and climb stairs.
Ability to assist individuals with activities of daily living and mobility needs.
Ability to lift more than 50 pounds when required to perform essential job duties.
Ability to operate a telephone, computer, copier, calculator, vehicle lifts, and adaptive equipment.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor’s degree in human services, psychology, social work, education, or a related field.
Six months to one year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Previous experience in residential services, behavioral health, direct support, caregiving, or another human services setting.
Knowledge of trauma-informed care and positive behavior support practices.

Responsibilities

Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, housekeeping, shopping, and household maintenance.
Provide supervision, guidance, and support according to individual needs and person-centered service plans.
Help individuals develop independent living skills, confidence, and community participation.
Support recreational, social, educational, religious, and community activities.
Transport individuals to approved destinations, including medical appointments, day programs, family visits, and community activities.
Drive company vehicles safely and follow motor vehicle laws and organizational transportation requirements.
Administer medications and carry out prescribed healthcare programs in accordance with training, policies, and regulations.
Implement individualized behavior support plans and respond appropriately to crisis situations.
Provide trauma-informed care and foster a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.
Monitor the health, safety, and well-being of individuals residing in the home.
Follow supervision requirements in each individual’s Individual Service Plan or Behavior Support Plan.
Teach and reinforce skills and goals identified in individualized service plans.
Complete required records accurately and on time, including medication logs, daily notes, goal documentation, incident reports, vehicle logs, fire drill logs, seizure records, and sleep and awake charts.
Maintain the confidentiality, privacy, and dignity of individuals served.
Recognize and report suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment in accordance with policies and applicable laws.
Collaborate with the Lead DSP, Residential Manager, clinical team, families, and other members of individuals’ support networks.
Attend required staff meetings, training programs, and competency-based training.
Assist with annual licensing activities, program inspections, investigations, and home-related compliance requirements.
Respond calmly and professionally to emergencies and potential crisis situations.
Perform additional duties and special projects assigned by the Residential Manager or Lead DSP.