DSHS DDA Direct Support Professional

State of Washington • Pierce County – Lakewood, WA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

DSHS Direct Support Professional/Attendant Counselor 2. This role involves coaching, teaching, mentoring, and supporting children and youth with developmental disabilities in the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), Intensive Habilitation Services for Children (IHS) program. The position provides support, personal care, supervision, and training to children in a short-term habilitation program home. Responsibilities include teaching daily living skills, performing personal care and household tasks, facilitating community integration and relationship building, assisting with medication administration, and managing behaviors. This is a direct support opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and youths at Intensive Habilitation Services (IHS) in Lakewood, WA.

Requirements

• One year of experience working with people experiencing developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and/or mental health challenges AND a high school graduation / GED or equivalent.
• One year of experience as an Attendant Counselor 1, equivalent or higher-level state class.
• A current Nursing Assistant Registered (NAR) will be needed within 120 days of employment.
• Outgoing and friendly.
• Willingness to work with children and youth in crisis who exhibit challenging behaviors.
• Effectively communicate with management, peers, residents, and the public as needed.
• Ability to work in a team and alone.
• Ability to read and follow policies and procedures.
• 75-hour training certificate, Nurse Delegation, CPR/First Aid, Therapeutic Options, and Blood Borne Pathogen training, or ability to obtain within required timeframes.
• Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license.
• Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Coach, teach, and mentor children and youth with intellectual disabilities.
• Assist and train participants with all areas of daily living skills.
• Implement habilitation and behavioral plans.
• Transport and accompany clients to appointments or other activities in the community.
• Maintain the IHS home, keeping it safe and clean while respecting personal property.
• Assist with medical or behavioral emergencies which may frequently include high intensity behaviors.
• Utilize an electronic data system to maintain client records and other reports.
• Keep the program home safe and clean.

Benefits

• Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
• Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED