Vocational Program Assistant

Dignitas Inc.•Westland, MI

About The Position

Unity Works seeks a Vocational Program Assistant to support individuals with brain injuries in their rehabilitation journey. The role promotes clients’ independence and quality of life through individualized care, tailored activities, and consistent support in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment. The position has standard hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday; some evening or weekend hours may be required for special events or activities. The assistant supports clients’ personalized goals, supervises activities, helps with daily living skills, documents progress and incidents, administers medication according to policy, and accompanies clients on planned outings. The role also involves adapting activities to individual needs, communicating with clients and colleagues, following safety and regulatory requirements, collaborating with the team, and helping maintain the facility and vehicles.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to remain calm, patient, and empathetic in challenging situations.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Valid driver’s license and ability to transport clients, if required.
Ability to assist clients with mobility and physical activities.
Ability to lift and carry equipment and materials and assist with client transfers when necessary.

Nice To Haves

Some college education.
Experience working with individuals with brain injuries or disabilities.
First Aid and CPR certification, or willingness to obtain it.

Responsibilities

Support clients in achieving personalized goals related to life skills, social interaction, communication, and rehabilitation.
Lead and facilitate activities that encourage client participation and engagement.
Ensure clients’ safety and well-being by following safety protocols and providing supervision.
Assist with daily living skills, including feeding, hygiene, dressing, and mobility, as outlined in treatment plans.
Document clients’ progress, behaviors, incidents, and significant changes in condition or mood.
Administer medication according to policies, document it accurately, and observe clients appropriately.
Accompany clients to planned activities, including transportation, and ensure their needs are met during trips.
Adapt activities to clients’ preferences, abilities, and needs; provide one-on-one support and adjust difficulty as appropriate.
Create a calm, supportive environment that minimizes sensory overload and use positive reinforcement to encourage participation.
Communicate clearly with clients, colleagues, and supervisors about client needs, progress, and concerns.
Maintain accurate and timely records of daily activities, incidents, and interventions; complete and submit daily progress reports on time.
Follow company policies and procedures, safety and emergency protocols, and state laws and regulatory requirements related to client care and program operations.
Participate in ongoing training and professional development.
Collaborate with staff, participate in team meetings, contribute ideas for improving client care and program success, and support team members as needed.
Help maintain a clean and organized environment for clients and staff.
Promptly report facility and vehicle repair or maintenance needs.
Document mileage for client transportation and provide receipts for work-related purchases.