Direct Support Professional
About The Position
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) implements person-centered services for individuals, including their plans, goals, and outcomes in program-based and community inclusion activities. The role is also directly responsible for supporting individuals’ overall physical and emotional well-being. The position is full-time, based in Brooklyn, NY, with an evening shift and travel of up to 25%. Initial offers are made at $19 per hour; additional compensation may be available based on factors such as driving responsibilities, required certifications, and length of time in the role. Pay increases within the stated range are based on certifications, training completion, and job performance. The compensation package may also include a bi-annual discretionary bonus. The DSP supports individuals in developing skills, socializing, participating in tasks, accessing their communities, and forming and maintaining relationships. The role includes documentation, transportation, supervision, personal care and other program services, safety and cleanliness tasks, and coordination with families, advocates, service providers, and program staff.
Requirements
- High school diploma, GED, or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential is strongly preferred but not required.
- Maintain AMAP, CPR/First Aid, and SCIP certifications as required.
- Meet or exceed DSP Core Competencies Standards by the end of the first year of employment.
Nice To Haves
- One year or more of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Valid New York State driver’s license.
- High school diploma, GED, or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential.
Responsibilities
- Implement individuals’ plans in accordance with their specific services, goals, and outcomes.
- Participate in planning and carrying out program and community activities that address individuals’ goals and outcomes.
- Support and teach individuals according to their services, goals, and outcomes.
- Engage individuals in skills development, socialization, and task participation across settings.
- Provide support with consideration for each person’s individualized needs and routines.
- Promote community inclusion according to individuals’ needs, interests, and desires, and encourage interaction with community members.
- Assist individuals in forming and maintaining friendships with neighbors, co-workers, and peers.
- Maintain positive communication with family members, advocates, and service providers as needed.
- Transport individuals or assist them with public transportation as required.
- Participate in planning recreational activities and outings and, as requested, in Program Planning Team meetings.
- Accurately and completely document information and data, including medical, behavioral, services, goals, outcomes, fire safety, community inclusion, and communication records.
- Complete written reports and documentation on time.
- Provide appropriate individualized supervision and ensure staff are trained on each person’s LOS.
- Engage in program services as needed, including toileting, showering, behavioral interventions, community inclusion, emergency response, meal preparation, and maintaining cleanliness of the physical plant.
- Safeguard the confidentiality and privacy of staff and individuals.
- Report incidents to program management immediately upon discovery.
- Ensure equipment and supplies are stored safely and appropriately.
- Clean as frequently and thoroughly as needed to meet program cleanliness standards.
- Report hazards or unsafe conditions immediately to a supervisor.
- Maintain AMAP, CPR/First Aid, and SCIP certifications as required.
- Meet or exceed DSP Core Competencies Standards by the end of the first year of employment.
- Perform other job-related duties consistent with the position’s scope, responsibilities, and level, and with applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
Benefits
- Paid vacation, sick, and personal days, and holidays.
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution.
- Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Flexible spending accounts for dependent care, medical expenses, parking, and transit.
- Employee appreciation programs and events.
- Tuition Assistance Program.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Gympass discount.
- Verizon Wireless discount.
- BJ’s membership discount.
- Discounts on Broadway tickets, movie tickets, theme parks, sporting events, and gift certificates.
- Potential bi-annual discretionary bonus.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
