Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Position Title: Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Adult Services Residential Program

Reports To: Residential Program Manager

Position Overview: The Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Waves, Inc. plays a pivotal role in ensuring high-quality care, support, and assistance to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities residing in our residential program located in Franklin and Spring Hill, TN. In addition to the core responsibilities of a DSP, the Lead DSP will take on enhanced duties to support the Residential Program Manager, including filling open shifts, participating in the on-call rotation, and providing leadership and guidance to fellow DSPs.

Primary Functions: The Lead DSP, under the supervision of the Residential Program Manager, is responsible for maintaining the well-being, safety, and quality of life of residents while fostering an environment conducive to independence, community integration, and personal growth.

Major Responsibilities:

1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of each resident's unique abilities, needs, preferences, and goals.
2. Provide personalized assistance and support with activities of daily living (ADLs), including dressing, bathing, grooming, eating, and mobility.
3. Administer medication and implement therapy plans according to established protocols.
4. Foster positive and meaningful relationships with residents, promoting social interactions and companionship.
5. Organize and engage residents in recreational and leisure activities that align with their interests and abilities.
6. Offer residents emotional support, active listening, and guidance during stress or emotional challenges.
7. Collaborate with residents to identify areas for skill development, such as communication, self-care, cooking, budgeting, and household chores.
8. Design and implement training plans and activities to enhance residents' independence and functional abilities.
9. Maintain a safe and clean living environment, promptly addressing any hazards or concerns.
10. Implement and follow established safety protocols to prevent accidents and emergencies.
11. Monitor residents' physical and mental health, promptly reporting any changes or concerns to appropriate medical personnel.
12. Accurately document daily activities, progress, incidents, and significant interactions with residents.
13. Maintain accurate records of medications administered, medical appointments, and health-related observations.
14. Communicate effectively with fellow DSPs, supervisors, medical professionals, and other support staff to ensure a holistic approach to resident care.
15. Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and circle of support meetings to share insights, discuss strategies, and ensure coordinated care.
16. Promote residents' active participation in community activities, events, and social outings.
17. Advocate for residents' rights, choices, and inclusion within the community while respecting their cultural, religious, and personal beliefs.
18. Fill open shifts as needed to ensure adequate staffing levels.
19. Participate in the on-call rotation to address emergent staffing needs and provide support outside regular working hours.
20. Provide leadership and guidance to DSPs, including mentoring new staff, conducting training sessions, and facilitating team collaboration.

Skills & Experience:

• Experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and empathy skills.
• Strong computer skills are required.
• Ability to handle challenging situations with patience, compassion, and problem-solving skills.
• Reliable, responsible, and organized, able to manage time effectively.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical stamina to assist with lifting, transferring, and providing personal care to residents.

Job Qualifications:

• A high school diploma or GED is required for this position.
• Must obtain a Tennessee Class D license, medication administration certification, and CPR/First Aid certification.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Tennessee driver’s license.
• Requires good oral and written communication skills.
• Must possess flexibility in scheduling.
• Must meet and maintain all training requirements.

Note: The Lead DSP position entails additional responsibilities beyond those of a standard DSP and requires strong leadership skills, flexibility, and a commitment to promoting the well-being and independence of residents in our program.

Waves, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. Waves, Inc. also operates its programs and services without regard to race, color, and national origin in accordance with Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. To file a complaint, please copy and paste this link into your browser to complete this form (https://wavesinc.com/SITE/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Title_VI_Complaint_Form_English.pdf).