DSP OPWDD - Housing Services

Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. • East Meadow, NY

119d

About The Position

The Direct Support Specialist (DSS) provides supervision and oversight to the individuals residing in specialized OPWDD IRA residences who are categorized as High Risk. The DSS will provide support and services to individuals involved in the criminal justice system, or have the potential to become involved, and are at risk for reoffending while residing in a community-based setting, without specialized supports and services in place. The DSS will work collaboratively with the Direct Support Professionals to provide support and services based on person-centered life plans. The DSS will act as liaison to the clinical and management team members to address psychiatric and behavioral episodes. Further, the DSS will assist in ensuring behavioral support plans are followed and required documentation is completed as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of six (6) months of experience providing services and direct supports to people with disabilities required.
• Valid CPR/FA and SCIP certifications required (provided upon hire if needed).
• Valid AMAP certification required (must obtain within 120 days of hire).
• Proficient computer skills preferred.
• Proficient writing skills with grasp of basic grammar and spelling.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment with flexibility, keeping others informed and anticipating needs is essential.
• Must be efficient, well organized, and have excellent communication skills.
• 18 years of age or older.
• No convictions for crimes that preclude a person from working with members of a vulnerable population.
• Valid driver’s license and satisfy criteria to be an agency driver required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with individuals with forensic histories, mental illness, and/or substance abuse disorders preferred.

Responsibilities

• Works with the people we support to help them identify and realize their personal life goals.
• Ensures fire safety equipment is in working condition and teaches individuals to utilize this equipment.
• Teaches individuals who to contact for emergencies including, but not limited to, medical, psychiatric, fire, lack of food, etc.
• Conducts direct observations of behavior, review of records/behavioral data, and verbal/written input from team members.
• Assists individuals in accessing and utilizing community/neighborhood services.
• Acts as a liaison between individuals and various treatment team members including management, doctors, and clinical staff.
• Teaches independent living skills to the individuals to promote independence in the community.
• Assists with developing Staff Action Plans/Residential Habilitation Plans in conjunction with the individuals and their treatment teams; encourages follow through on all goals.
• Encourages and supports individuals to maintain psychiatric stability through counseling, crisis intervention, attending daytime activities, participating in treatment, and utilizing other available resources.
• Assists individuals in complying with requirements of treatment such as legal mandates and conditions of parole or probation.
• Completes reports and documentation in a timely manner, reviews documentation completed by Direct Support Professionals and assists in validation and follow up as directed by management to ensure completion within required parameters.
• As directed by management, assists in ensuring all team members are trained on program specific documentation and treatment plans and provides guidance as needed.
• Attends and participates in Interdisciplinary Team Meetings, case review meetings, and all other team meetings as assigned.
• Advocates with and for the people we support in a variety of situations.
• Works with the people we support and other members of the interdisciplinary team to develop service plans that aid the person in achieving their personal life goals.
• Assists the people we support to overcome barriers and challenges in establishing and maintaining a network of relationships and valued social roles.
• Documents service provision, daily notes, and other information accurately, as required.
• Provides positive behavior support to the people we support as necessary.
• Works in partnership with the people we support to promote their health and safety.
• Prevents, recognizes, and reports abuse toward the people we support.
• Tracks and documents community integration and outings for the people we support.
• Ensures that all required documentation (paper and electronic) is completed /processed appropriately, in a timely manner, and meets quality and compliance thresholds.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees