FT Direct Support Professional
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional provides supervision and guidance to individuals with disabilities who reside in a group home. The role includes support with personal care, medication management, crisis management, daily living skills, community integration, and emotional needs. The employee is expected to follow agency policies and applicable regulations, implement Individual Service Plans, complete documentation, and support individuals’ independence and choices. This full-time position is located at Cherry Street in Athens, Pennsylvania. The listed schedule is Wednesday and Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The position is non-exempt from overtime pay and reports to the Program Manager. Employees may be expected to work evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays. A pre-employment physical and a Mantoux TB test are required upon hire.
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent, or experience in the field.
- No criminal record.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must maintain Medication Administration Certification.
- Must complete a pre-employment physical and a Mantoux TB test upon hire.
- Ability to lift 40–100 pounds unassisted and lift 100 pounds or more with assistance.
- Ability to reach above the head and below the knees.
- Ability to perform repetitive motions with both hands.
- Ability to reach out to pull and push a wheelchair.
- Ability to twist and bend at the waist.
- Good reaction response to protect personal space.
Responsibilities
- Know and comply with agency policies and procedures, applicable 6100 and 6400 regulations, and updated ODP requirements.
- Perform duties in support of the agency’s mission and vision.
- Identify individuals’ strengths, needs, and goals.
- Implement Individual Service Plans (ISPs) and document outcomes accurately and promptly.
- Complete at least 24 hours of training annually, including mandatory and supervisor-assigned training.
- Attend and participate in staff meetings.
- Use or learn to use computers for daily documentation and training.
- Assist with or perform personal care, including tooth-brushing, toileting, bathing, dressing, and feeding.
- Serve as a positive role model for individuals.
- Provide opportunities for individuals to integrate into and participate in their communities.
- Perform housekeeping tasks such as vacuuming, shopping, laundry, and mopping.
- Provide support and problem-solving techniques to individuals.
- Communicate effectively and promptly with the immediate supervisor.
- Administer medications and maintain Medication Administration Certification.
- Advocate for individuals in their community relationships.
- Identify workplace safety issues and injuries and report them immediately.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards.
- Encourage individuals’ independence in daily skills and teach skills that support independence.
- Encourage and respect individuals’ choices.
- Complete required documentation in the agency-approved electronic health record and follow documentation policies.
- Support individuals with emotional issues by providing support, education, and solutions.
- Escalate incidents identified in the Incident Management Bulletin to a point person.
- Use positive and respectful language with supervisors, coworkers, and individuals.
- Use and model an everyday-life philosophy when supporting individuals.
- Perform related tasks assigned by the immediate supervisor.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
