DSP - Eastern Parkway

The New York Foundling•New York, NY

About The Position

The Direct Support Professional at The New York Foundling empowers persons with developmental disabilities to live fulfilling lives by providing personalized support and fostering independence. The role promotes individual growth and quality of life while maintaining a supportive environment. The position involves implementing and monitoring plans of care and person-centered goals, providing direct support with daily living activities, and facilitating community participation. The Direct Support Professional also uses positive behavior support strategies, provides required supervision, maintains accurate records, collaborates with interdisciplinary teams and families, advocates for individuals’ rights and choices, and administers and documents medications.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid NY, NJ, CT, or PA driver’s license, at least six months of driving experience, and six or fewer points.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support persons with developmental disabilities.
Commitment to compassionate care and promoting dignity and respect.
Ability to respond effectively to changing needs and environments, with flexibility and problem-solving skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality, uphold ethical standards, and follow agency policies and procedures.
Strong commitment to safety.

Nice To Haves

Experience in direct care or human services.
CPR and First Aid certification.
Additional training in developmental disabilities, behavior management, or healthcare.

Responsibilities

Implement and monitor plans of care, which may include Comprehensive Functional Assessments, Staff Action Plans, Life Plans, treatment plans, and Behavior Support Plans.
Implement and document goals and objectives from person-centered plans, using structured activities and positive reinforcement to develop social, vocational, and life skills.
Provide direct care and assistance with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and transportation.
Facilitate community outings, recreational activities, and social events that promote inclusion, independence, and meaningful interaction.
Accompany individuals to appointments and support healthcare follow-up.
Use person-centered approaches and positive behavior support strategies to address challenging behaviors and maintain a safe, nurturing environment.
Provide the level of supervision and support required for individuals’ medical, developmental, clinical, and emotional needs.
Maintain accurate records, daily progress notes, and incident reports concerning achievements, behaviors, and health status, in compliance with agency policies and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with healthcare professionals, therapists, family members, and interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement comprehensive care plans.
Advocate for individuals’ rights, choices, and preferences and promote self-advocacy and empowerment in decision-making.
Serve as a custodian and mandated reporter in accordance with OPWDD, NYSJC, and organizational policies.
Administer medications according to prescribed schedules, document administration, and monitor for adverse reactions or side effects.