Direct Support Professional

Merakey•Pittsburgh, PA
•$17 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

This is work in the field of specialized residential care for the developmentally disabled. An employee in this class is responsible for specialized care, in an assigned living area. This position involves providing individualized care, continuous active treatment and the promotion of the residents’ personal development under professional direction. This work is performed in accordance with appropriate procedures under the close supervision of a higher level Supervisor or QIDP, who reviews results through daily documentation and observation of activities in progress, residents’ responsiveness, inspection of quarters, reports and periodic conferences. Staff will be requested to follow a designated shift routine as outlined by the Supervisor.

Requirements

  • Ability to conduct and implement functional assessments
  • Ability to read and write.
  • Ability to prepare necessary reports and recording of residents’ program progress.
  • Ability to plan and supervise social, recreational, work and study activities for residents in an assigned living area.
  • Ability to cope with day-to-day problems and to record and report observations.
  • Ability to maintain an understanding attitude toward the residents.
  • Ability to keep and maintain records with accuracy and completeness.
  • Ability to lift, transfer and position residents, utilizing prescribed techniques.
  • Ability to follow procedures established for care and use of equipment and food preparation.
  • Ability to maintain effective communication, including sign language, with staff and verbal and non-verbal residents.
  • Ability to implement proper practices and techniques of supervision of residents.
  • Ability to demonstrate flexibility and initiative in the job responsibilities and follow instructions.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

  • Related experience is helpful.

Responsibilities

  • Supervises, instructs or assists the residents in activities of daily living; such as, bathing, dressing, eating and personal hygiene.
  • Provides individualized care, active treatment and appropriate documentation under professional direction.
  • Must provide age-appropriate, on-going interactions with clients during structured and unstructured activities that are directed towards individuals identified needs.
  • Participates in in-services training courses.
  • Participates in housekeeping functions in residents’ living quarters, including responsibility for their personal effects and spot-cleaning when necessary.
  • Plans and provides guidance in social, recreational, work, community and study activities.
  • Copes with day-to-day problems and feelings of the resident and reports observations on individual behavior.
  • Participates in staff meetings as integral member of the residents’ interdisciplinary team.
  • Transports and/or accompanies residents to various activities in the community.
  • Works cooperatively with all personnel involved in the active treatment of the residents.
  • Works in other areas and/or takes hospital trips when coverage dictates this necessity at Supervisor’s direction.
  • Requisitions Maintenance/Housekeeping Services as needed.
  • Promotes a positive self-image and residents’ individualized development.
  • Insures the safety of the residents is maintained at all times by providing a safe living environment.
  • Provides written reports on residents’ progress and program effectiveness.
  • Participates in training programs provided by all disciplines involved in the total resident program and the follow-through of such programs.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to healthcare advocacy support.
  • Retirement plan -- both pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) options available for employee contributions.
  • DailyPay -- access your pay when you need it!
  • On the Goga well-being platform, featuring self-care tools and resources.
  • Access Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services.
  • Confidential counseling, legal, and financial services through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships.
  • Employee discounts and savings programs on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
  • Access to Pryor Online Learning for free online personal development classes.
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