Lead Direct Support Professional (Lead DSP)

Envision Unlimited•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Lead Direct Support Professional ensures community living services meet or exceed client and Agency expectations. The role provides direct support and administrative coordination to clients residing in a CILA, coordinates service activities and appointments, and monitors reports and supplies. Administrative duties include supporting scheduling, vehicle reporting, facility supplies, daily reports, and on-the-job training for new hires. The Lead DSP works closely with the Program Director to maintain adequate employee coverage and ensure documentation meets Agency and regulatory standards. The position supports residents’ safety, wellness, independence, and development. Duties include helping residents plan daily activities, providing training in daily living skills, assisting with medications and personal care as needed, and implementing individual and group programs. The role also helps maintain a clean, safe facility, monitors household food and supplies, and follows emergency, security, and safety procedures.

Requirements

High school diploma; some college is preferred.
Several years of experience working with individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities in a residential setting.
Proof of Direct Service Professional (DSP) training.
Pass the TABE test.
Valid Illinois driver’s license that is maintained.
Ability to distribute medications.
Pass agency background checks required by state regulatory mandates for workers serving clients with developmental disabilities.
Some proficiency using Microsoft Office or similar applications.
Ability to take on administrative work and accept responsibility for following Agency guidelines and standard operating procedures.
Ability to handle multiple projects or work assignments simultaneously.
Ability to communicate effectively with clients, coworkers, and supervisors.
Ability to maintain accurate and timely documentation.
Physical strength sufficient to respond to situations that may require intervening in client behavioral episodes.

Nice To Haves

Some college education.

Responsibilities

Coordinate client service activities and appointments to ensure they are completed on time.
Assist with coordinating client appointments, vehicle reports, facility supplies, daily reports, and on-the-job training for new hires.
Maintain accurate and timely CILA and Agency documentation, including daily progress reports, Lead CLS shift reports, van log sheets, shift responsibility checklists, custodial accounts, and MAR sheets.
Monitor menus and maintain adequate food and household supply purchasing and inventory.
Monitor vehicle use, condition, fuel, and mileage; submit reports and accident documentation to the Program Director in a timely manner.
Provide on-the-job orientation for new hires as needed.
Handle weekly Paycard requests, household allowances, and receipts.
Work with the Program Director to prepare work schedules and maintain adequate employee coverage at the CILA.
Attend client staffings when possible and attend staff meetings as necessary.
Implement individual and group programs that promote client growth, development, and independence.
Assist residents with daily schedules, household chores, social activities, meetings, and appointments.
Help clients manage allowances and complete affidavits and receipts.
Monitor residents’ wellness and safety, respond appropriately to emergencies, and enforce curfews as required.
Assist residents with medications according to program plan requirements and review medication administration records.
Evaluate and train residents in daily living skills, including personal hygiene and grooming, housekeeping, laundry and clothing care, money management, budgeting, and recreational activities.
Implement evacuation and emergency drills according to schedule.
Report safety hazards and risks to the Program Director and recommend measures to reduce or prevent harm.
Secure doors and windows and maintain working knowledge of security alarms and facility safety requirements.
Monitor facility maintenance to ensure a clean and healthy environment; perform cleaning and household duties, assist with residents’ bedroom maintenance, and shop for food according to approved menus.