Direct Support Professional Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• High school diploma and some coursework and/or training in the behavioral sciences.
• Some work experience in day support programs for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
• Valid Virginia driver’s license.
• First Aid/CPR certification.
• Training in Therapeutic Options (THEROPS) and Medication Management.
• Considerable knowledge of day support programming, common disabilities, and principles and practices relating to care and behavioral management of people with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays, including age-related issues.
• Considerable knowledge of assistive equipment and apparatus and lifting and transfer techniques.
• Some knowledge of social casework management and supportive-level counseling.
• Some knowledge of crisis prevention and intervention skills applicable to people with intellectual disabilities.
• Some knowledge of principles, practices, and techniques of prevocational and vocational training.
• Ability to establish rapport with individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with staff and community organizations.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to function calmly in stressful situations.
• Ability to physically lift or move an average-weight adult individual.
• Ability to observe, assess, and record individual behaviors and functioning.
• Ability to operate a vehicle.
• Ability to respond effectively to behavioral and medical crisis situations.
• Must successfully complete pre-employment drug screening and background checks, including criminal history, Department of Social Services review, driving record, and credential verification, if given a conditional offer.

Responsibilities

• Monitor participant behaviors, safety, and health in accordance with service plans.
• Instruct and supervise individuals engaged in skill development.
• Assist and coach individuals in community integration and social behaviors.
• Assist individuals with personal hygiene and related skills, including bathing, bathroom skills, and changing soiled clothing or undergarments.
• Support and coach individuals in using personal assistive devices and apparatus.
• Monitor individuals’ use of materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Coordinate skill-training needs with other habilitation staff.
• Prepare progress notes in compliance with requirements.
• Support client participation in socialization and recreational activities.
• Implement and monitor community safety procedures.
• Complete reports, time sheets, payroll records, and work schedules.
• Clean and organize facility spaces and work stations.
• Perform supportive tasks related to individuals’ service plans, such as maintaining communication notebooks, doing laundry, and washing lunch containers.
• Collaborate with other staff and advise individuals’ families about behaviors, progress, problems, and medical conditions.
• Operate a large van and lift equipment and transport individuals.
• Assist in lifting participants, including use of transfer techniques and assistive apparatus.
• Administer medications.
• Coach participants on budgeting and use of personal funding accounts.
• Monitor and assist participants during volunteer services.
• Participate in training and team meetings.
• Prepare individual profiles, case notes, data collection, and quarterly reports.