Residential Instructor (DSP, DCW, RI)

Alternative Services Connecticut•Griswold, CT

About The Position

The Residential Instructor is responsible for daily consumer supervision and program operations, ensuring consumer progress is followed accurately and in a timely manner. The role implements Agency policies and procedures to protect consumers and Agency property and helps provide a fun, safe, and healthy environment. The Residential Instructor follows consumer behavior support plans, supports daily living and hygiene needs, administers medications according to applicable guidelines, documents activities and incidents, and provides or supervises programs and community activities. The position is directly accountable to the Residential Manager or another person designated in their place. Other job-related duties may be assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least two years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or individuals who are dually diagnosed; education may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
Valid driver’s license and ability to be insured by the Agency’s insurance company throughout employment.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Ability to obtain and maintain CPR, First Aid, PMT, and DDS State Medication Administration certifications.
Ability to lift up to 75 pounds, transfer individuals, and physically intervene as required.

Responsibilities

Monitor consumer behavior and implement behavior-management and other applicable programs; follow behavior support plans and document accordingly.
Document shift activities, incidents, consumer welfare, and program or statistical information on appropriate forms and in Therap as required.
Maintain the safety, appearance, and cleanliness of the home; conduct safety and sanitation inspections and make minor repairs or report potential major issues.
Know consumers’ locations and follow Agency policies, licensing regulations, DDS contracts, medication procedures, key-control requirements, individual plans, and emergency procedures.
Immediately alert appropriate personnel to problems or unusual occurrences and complete accurate, timely incident reports, including reports involving consumers or workers’ compensation.
Implement policies, procedures, and legal and program commitments required by Connecticut DDS, ASI, and other state and federal agencies.
Fulfill delegated responsibilities and report on assigned duties at staff meetings as required.
Advocate for consumers, serve as an appropriate role model, and treat individuals with respect and dignity.
Assist with or complete consumers’ hygiene needs.
Record consumer and visitor movements; unusual incidents; seizures; medication administration or errors; accidents and medical emergencies; and noticeable changes in consumer conduct.
Distribute medications according to consumer schedules, DDS Medication Certification guidelines, and Agency policies.
Provide activities and programs during each shift, organize and supervise consumer participation, and interact with consumers according to their needs and preferences.
Provide counseling or reinforcement to assigned consumers regarding progress, problems, and interests.
Help supervise and safely transport residents to community activities, day programs, and social events.
Follow emergency procedures for fires, hurricanes, power outages, accidents, and other serious incidents.
Assist guardians, parents, and others in understanding and implementing normalization and person-centered-planning principles in their contact with consumers.
Immediately report and respond to violations of individuals’ rights to the Executive Director or designee, and participate in investigations as directed.
Assist with shopping, meal preparation, setup, and cleanup while on duty.
Attend in-service training, seminars, staff meetings, and other professional development opportunities; provide training to Agency personnel as required.
Perform other assigned duties as directed by the Residential Manager, Assistant Residential Manager, or upper management.
Travel as required using an Agency vehicle or personal vehicle.
Be able to lift up to 75 pounds, transfer individuals, and physically intervene when required.