Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Description

Summary

DSP staff assists people with autism in community living and community services, modeling and teaching skills, participating in recreational activities, providing transportation, supporting people on jobs, and helping people achieve personal outcomes. The DSP job title includes various work assignments including: personal assistant, job coach, community living staff, community services staff, behavior aide, and recreation staff. Specialized training may be required for particular assignments. DSP’s are part of a professional team responsible for assisting each individual to live a safe, enjoyable life in their community with opportunities to learn and to exercise increasing independence and control over their lives.

Scope

This direct support position is responsible for the provision of day-to-day services to program participants.

Responsibilities (these may vary based on assignment)

• Supervision of persons supported.
• Providing training in Activities of Daily Living (ADL’s).
• Documentation of services.
• Transportation.
• Crisis Intervention.
• Implementation of specialized plans of care.
• Maintaining the home and grounds in a level of excellence.
• Treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
• Support individuals to take control of their lives, to make wise decisions that enhance their ability to reach their goals.
• Support individuals to take on as much control as possible over the routines and activities in their home.
• Teach, assist and support individuals in the community and at home so that the individual is able to learn, practice and master skills that enable him/her to enhance his/her status by assuming socially valued roles.
• Support each individual’s existing relationships and increase their networks of friends and acquaintances.
• Ensure that all individuals are supported to explore and express their interest for community membership.
• Oversight of health and welfare of the person supported. To ensure that the health and well-being of individuals are met by accompanying individuals on appointments as needed, administering medications (or supporting them to self-medicate) in accordance with policy, providing a well-balanced diet prepared to meet individual needs (when applicable), following all instructions given by health professionals.
• Complete agency training program in a timely manner and participate in other professional development as required by supervisor.
• Implement ISP action steps and staff instructions as written and at the frequency stated in the plan.
• Demonstrate accurate data collection procedures and consistent use of described support strategies that promote success.
• Maintain all required certifications such as medication administration, First Aid & CPR, etc.,
• Assist the individuals with household shopping and maintenance as necessary, providing ongoing opportunity for individuals to assume increasing control, responsibility.
• Attend and participate actively in staff meetings.
• Facilitate teamwork between all team members via open communication, sharing of responsibilities and a positive, constructive attitude.
• Follow all agency policies.
• Perform additional duties as required or directed.
• Carry out all responsibilities professionally and efficiently.
• Work in harmony with all agency staff as well as staff of outside entities.

Requirements

Qualifications/Abilities

• HS Diploma or GED required. 
• Unexpired Drivers License & proof of vehicle insurance required.

DSP’s must: meet all requirements of licensing, regulatory and accrediting entities; possess a valid driver’s license; be able to work in close harmony with other staff in a team environment; be able to read and write and follow verbal and written instructions; present an objective outlook at all times; present an acceptable and morally upstanding character as well as physical appearance; be alert and observant during duty hours; have no restriction in areas of lifting(50lbs) on occasion, bending or prolonged standing; demonstrate a commitment to assisting people with developmental disabilities to participate fully in the life of their community; have a safe vehicle and good driving record, adequate vehicle insurance, current driver’s license; possess varied interests and personal connections in the local community; have a proven record of conscientious, responsible behavior (work, volunteer or school history); be able to work as part of a team.

OVERTIME STATUS: Non-Exempt