DSP

Sevita•Greeneville, TN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The DSP provides direct support within a single program or unit, typically supporting 4–6 individuals in residential settings or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs. The role follows individual service or program plans and supports socialization, health maintenance, medication administration, skill and behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community integration, shopping, citizenship, and other activities of daily living. The DSP documents individuals’ progress and activities, reviews records and logs for service-plan changes, protects confidentiality and individual rights, and reports alleged abuse or neglect, incidents, and health concerns as required. The position may include accompanying individuals to appointments, administering or supporting self-administration of medications, monitoring health, preparing meals according to menus, preferences, and dietary needs, and using medical equipment as directed. The employee attends required training and staff meetings, works scheduled hours, contributes to teamwork and workplace safety, and may transport individuals and perform housekeeping, minor repairs, yard maintenance, and other duties as required. The position works at the program location and may involve accompanying individuals into the community. It is a non-exempt, hourly position that may be full-time or part-time.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
For the New Jersey addendum, a high school diploma or equivalent is required; the general posting lists it as preferred.
Working knowledge of computers.
Valid driver’s license in good standing; New Jersey employees must hold a license in good standing in New Jersey, or in their state of residence if commuting from another state.
If providing transportation, car registration and vehicle insurance are required; drivers must meet company insurance and driving-record requirements and receive management approval.
Complete all state-required training and certifications within mandated timeframes.
For New Jersey employment, submit to required pre-employment drug testing if hired after June 15, 2018, as well as random and for-cause/suspicion drug testing.
Submit to criminal background checks and be determined not disqualified by the Department of Human Services before working with individuals served.
Agree to name checks against the Central Registry of Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and submit an application for a Child Abuse Registry Information (CARI) check.
Meet the physical demands of heavy work: exert up to 100 pounds occasionally, up to 50 pounds frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds constantly to move objects.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent (listed as preferred in the general requirements; the New Jersey addendum requires it).
Six months of experience in human services.

Responsibilities

Provide direct support according to individual service or program plans, including support with socialization, behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreation, transportation, community orientation, shopping, financial management, citizenship, and activities of daily living.
Accurately document individuals’ progress and activities, review records and logs for changes in service plans, and maintain confidentiality.
Make appropriate, cost-effective purchases within individuals’ budgets and according to their choices and preferences.
Maintain professional relationships with individuals, friends, families, guardians, and case managers; greet visitors and follow customer service standards.
Report alleged abuse or neglect, medical and behavioral incidents, and other incidents according to applicable policies and requirements.
Respect individuals’ rights, assist them in exercising their rights, and practice universal precautions.
As needed, accompany individuals to medical appointments and relay information and orders to and from medical providers.
When assigned, administer or support self-administration of medication, document medications and treatments, report administration errors, and secure medications and supplies appropriately.
Monitor individuals’ health, document concerns, communicate with a nurse or supervisor, call 911 in emergencies, and follow health care directives.
Use medical equipment according to procedures and report malfunction or disrepair.
Prepare or support preparation of meals according to planned menus, individual preferences, and special diets; monitor mealtimes and follow dining plans.
Attend orientation, ongoing training, and monthly staff meetings; work scheduled hours, arrive on time, remain until relieved, and notify a supervisor about scheduling problems as required.
Work cooperatively and respectfully with others and comply with workplace safety policies, procedures, and training.
Transport individuals when required, drive safely and lawfully, use safety equipment such as seat belts, lifts, and wheelchair ties, and promptly report accidents and safety concerns.
Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping; maintain a neat, clean, and safe environment; and report hazards.
Monitor environmental safety and, as appropriate, make minor repairs, change light bulbs, perform yard maintenance, and help keep walkways safe, including snow removal.
Check water temperature when required during bathing assistance and participate in safety drills and emergency response.
Perform other duties and activities as required.
Cooperate with licensee and Department of Human Services staff during inspections, inquiries, and investigations.
Complete required training and demonstrate proficiency; submit to required drug testing and background and registry checks.