Direct Support Professional-Attendant Care Services

Job Summary:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for providing care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities in their home or in the community setting. The DSP helps individuals participate in structured activities, community outings, and skill-building exercises, focusing on promoting independence, socialization, and personal growth. The role involves hands-on support, assisting individuals with daily needs, and helping them achieve the goals outlined in their Individualized Service Plans (ISPs). The DSP ensures clients receive personalized assistance with daily living activities, fostering independence, dignity, and a high quality of life in a safe and supportive environment.

Location:  Mesa

Key Responsibilities:

1. Personal Care Support:
   • Assist clients with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and other hygiene needs.
   • Provide mobility assistance, including the use of wheelchairs, walkers, or other aids.
   • Support clients with eating and feeding as required.
2. Household Assistance:
   • Prepare and serve meals based on dietary requirements.
   • Perform light housekeeping tasks, including laundry and maintaining a clean-living environment.
   • Assist with grocery shopping and other errands.
3. Medical and Behavioral Support:
   • Accompany clients to medical appointments and provide transportation when necessary.
   • Assist with medication reminders and documentation.
   • Follow care plans to address behavioral or medical support needs.
4. Daily Living Activities:
   • Support clients with their morning and evening routines, including preparing for bed.
   • Provide companionship and engage clients in recreational activities to promote socialization.
   • Monitor and report changes in clients’ physical or mental health to supervisors.
5. Safety and Compliance:
   • Ensure a safe environment by adhering to safety protocols and reporting any hazards.
   • Maintain confidentiality and uphold the rights and dignity of clients.
6. Complex Needs Support:
   • Assist clients with medical accommodation, such as monitoring health conditions or managing assistive devices.
   • Support individuals with behavioral accommodation by implementing personalized behavior plans.
7. Environmental Modifications:
   • Ensure the environment is equipped with necessary adaptations like wheelchair ramps, grab bars, and alarms.
   • Maintain and check assistive devices and ensure they are in proper working condition.
8. Transportation and Community Access:
   • Drive clients to appointments, grocery shopping, and community events.
   • Facilitate participation in recreational or vocational activities.
9. Documentation:
   • Accurately document daily activities, medical incidents, and progress reports.
   • Maintain up-to-date care plans and ensure compliance with state and agency policies.

Qualifications:

• •Education: High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Experience: Minimum of 6 months’ prior experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities (preferred).
• Skills:
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and transferring clients.
  • Patience, empathy, and a commitment to client well-being.
• Certifications:
  • CPR and First Aid Certification
  • Article 9
  • Prevention & Support (as required)
  • DCW 1 & 2 (as required)

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to assist individuals with physical activities, including personal care, mobility support, and transfers as needed.
• Must be able to engage in physical activities with individuals, including recreational activities, outings, and exercise.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends, based on the needs of the program.
• Physical demands include lifting to 50 pounds, bending, stooping, and standing for extended periods.
• Proficient in navigating high-stress situations by employing de-escalation techniques to achieve productive outcomes.
• Demonstrated mental and emotional acuity in managing individuals in dysregulated situations.
• Finger and manual dexterity.

Additional Requirements:

• Background check clearance as required by state and federal regulations.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (if transportation of individuals is required).
• Social Security card
• Valid fingerprint Card
• Commitment to ongoing training and professional development.

Salary Range:

• TBD (depending on experience, location, and organizational budget).

Work Environment:

• The position may require work in clients’ homes, community settings, or day programs.

Employment Type:

• Full-time or part-time opportunities available.
• Flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.