(Full-Time) Direct Support Professional - Community Living

VersAbility - Newport News, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Newport News, VA

Social Assistance

About the position

As a Direct Support Professional, you will play a crucial role in providing support to individuals with developmental disabilities, assisting them in achieving their personal goals and leading meaningful lives. Your primary responsibilities will include offering direct care, promoting independence, ensuring safety, and fostering a positive and inclusive environment for the individuals in your care. We are currently looking for DSPs that can work within our 24/7 care facilities (weekend and evening shift differentials offered). PTO accrual starts on the first day of work for FT positions. Comprehensive medical plans for qualified staff members, tuition reimbursement, and many other benefits are also offered.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on assistance and support to individuals with developmental disabilities in their daily living activities, including but not limited to personal hygiene, meal preparation, transportation, and home maintenance.
• Foster a person-centered approach by actively engaging with individuals in creating and implementing personalized care plans that align with their goals, preferences, and abilities.
• Support individuals in enhancing their social and communication skills, facilitating community integration, and fostering healthy relationships.
• Administer medication and medical treatments as per prescribed guidelines, ensuring documentation and adherence to health-related protocols.
• Conduct regular assessments to identify individual needs, strengths, challenges, and areas for improvement, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop appropriate strategies and interventions.
• Document and maintain accurate records of significant events, daily activities, progress notes, and incidents, adhering to confidentiality guidelines and regulatory requirements.
• Advocate for individuals' rights, dignity, and choice, while also ensuring their safety and wellbeing at all times.
• Respond promptly and effectively to emergency situations, following established protocols and seeking assistance as appropriate.
• Promote and facilitate community participation, organizing and accompanying individuals in recreational activities, outings, and appointments.
• Collaborate and maintain open communication with families, guardians, and other team members to ensure continuity of care and effective service delivery.
• Engage in ongoing professional development, attend training sessions, seminars, and workshops to enhance knowledge and skills in the field of developmental disabilities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred).
• Demonstrated experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, preferably in a direct care role.
• Proven ability to provide compassionate care and support while fostering independence and promoting individual choice.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate and engage with individuals with diverse needs and backgrounds, their families, and team members.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and manage competing priorities.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations pertaining to the provision of services to individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Basic computer skills and proficiency in electronic health record systems/documentation.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to travel to various work locations and community outings.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate sensitivity to the rights and privacy of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.

Benefits

• PTO accrual starts on the first day of work for FT positions.
• Comprehensive medical plans for qualified staff members.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Weekend and evening shift differentials offered.