Direct Support Professional

Overview

Primary responsibility is to provide personal support in the residence of individuals served, actively engaging with them to ensure the successful implementation of programs and activities that benefit their well-being, both at home and in the community.

Key duties include:

• Instructing and empowering individuals to perform tasks independently to promote their growth and development in alignment with their individual plans and goals.
• Personalizing the living environment to reflect the preferences and personalities of the individuals served.
• Communicating with day program staff regarding the individual programs of the persons served when necessary.
• Promptly reporting any concerns related to the individuals served or operational needs of the household to the Program Coordinator.
• Utilizing approved behavior plans and intervention strategies to support the achievement of each individual’s goals and objectives.
• Serve as a positive role model for individuals served and agency staff.
• Engage directly with individuals to assist in the development of independent living skills, including mobility, budgeting, personal hygiene, cleaning, bathing, toileting, nail care, and oral hygiene.
• Maintain awareness of the whereabouts of individuals served at all times.
• Attend regular meetings with the House Manager and/or Program Coordinator.
• Stay informed about routine and emergency medical procedures, including CPR, monitoring vital signs, proper positioning, and the use of assistive devices such as wheelchairs, transfers, splints, dentures, and walkers.
• Administer medications (oral, topical, nebulizers, bowel regimens) accurately and on time, in accordance with the Physician Medical Order Form (PMOF) and Medication Administration Record (MAR), ensuring a three-way check.
• Monitor and assist in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the home for individuals served, both indoors and outdoors.
• Aid individuals in the care and maintenance of their personal belongings, ensuring these items are secure and well-managed.
• Complete required documentation, including monthly reports, incident reports, seizure records, program activity logs, fire drill reports, and temperature logs.
• Collaborate with individuals served to clean the home as appropriate, complete laundry, and prepare meals in line with approved menus, special diets, and food consistencies.
• Collect data on the progress of individuals served according to agency policy.
• Provide transportation for individuals to appointments, activities, and community outings.
• Assume financial responsibility for agency and individuals served funds, documenting transactions per agency policy.
• Communicate medical concerns to the Registered Nurse and coordinator in a timely manner.
• Conduct room checks at designated times to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals served.
• Utilize approved crisis intervention techniques during emergencies to prevent harm to individuals or others.
• Accompany individuals served to religious services as requested.
• Participate in in-service training, staff meetings, and other professional development activities.
• Foster a positive, enthusiastic, responsible, and courteous atmosphere at work and home.
• Maintain a flexible schedule, including availability for nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Be prepared to work at other residential homes as assigned based on agency needs.
• Treat individuals served with kindness, dignity, and respect at all times.
• Utilize technology effectively to fulfill job responsibilities.
• Adhere to the assigned work schedule and comply with agency policies regarding attendance.
• Collaborate cooperatively with families, staff, supervisors, administrators, co-workers, individuals served, community professionals, customers, neighbors, vendors, and the public.
• Follow all agency policies and procedures.
• Assume additional duties, responsibilities, and special projects as needed.

Requirements

Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred.

Experience

A minimum of one year of experience providing direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is required.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• The position may require occasional lifting of objects weighing up to 50 pounds or more
• Work in various community settings, both indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to sit, stand, reach, walk, push and or carry for extended periods where necessary.
• Capability to assist and transfer adults in and out of wheelchairs, and provide support with personal care needs as necessary.
• Ability to work with individuals with a range of disabilities, including exposure to potentially aggressive and unpredictable behavior.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver’s license (Not a provisional DL) and clean driving record.
• Access to a reliable vehicle for daily use, along with current automobile insurance.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Current Maryland DDA Training Certifications.
• Certification as a Medication Technician (CMT) or Nursing Assistant (CNA) is preferred.
• Seizure training is a plus.
• Ability to obtain and pass a background check.

* We are able to asisst with all required regulatory trainings

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Mileage reimbursement

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Every weekend
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20