Direct Support Professional

Limitless Possibilities•Oconto, WI

About The Position

Direct Support Professionals directly supervise adults with disabilities in settings such as homes, community locations, and vocational sites. They address each client’s specific needs, provide and teach opportunities, support informed choice, and follow the guidelines in clients’ service and support plans. They report to program supervisors. The role includes helping people maximize their skills, abilities, and independence; supporting health and wellness, self-determination, relationships, community access, and vocational or educational goals; and completing organizational documentation efficiently.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old; driving positions require applicants to be at least 21.
Have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Have some experience providing community supports to people with developmental disabilities.
Be able to reason and solve problems.
Have strong written and verbal communication skills.
Have a valid driver’s license.
Have automobile insurance.
Be willing to perform reasonable requests to meet the needs of the people served.
Be able to use computer applications such as word processors and email efficiently.
Be capable of communicating verbally to instruct, demonstrate, train, and work cooperatively with adults with developmental disabilities.
Be able to stand, sit, bend, lift, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and move intermittently.
Frequently lift or move up to 25 pounds.

Responsibilities

Assist individuals with household management, including meal preparation, laundry, cleaning, and decorating.
Assist with transportation needs to help individuals maximize their skills, abilities, and independence.
Fulfill responsibilities related to individual service plan development, implementation, and review.
Promote the health and wellness of clients.
Understand and participate in the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
Complete organizational documentation requirements efficiently.
Support individuals’ self-determination by providing information and support that builds self-esteem and assertiveness and enables decision-making.
Use knowledge of formal and informal assessment practices to respond to individuals’ needs, desires, and interests.
Understand challenges facing individuals, including human rights and client rights.
Help individuals identify and access formal and informal community supports.
Support individuals in developing friendships and other relationships.
Use effective communication strategies to establish collaborative relationships with individuals.
Apply crisis prevention, intervention, and resolution techniques suited to the circumstances and individuals.
Pursue knowledge and information needed to perform job duties.
Support individuals with vocational, educational, and career-related concerns.