CHOICES Lead Direct Support Professional

**This position is eligible for a $1,500 hiring bonus and $19.50/hour starting wage**

Department: CHOICES Residential

Job Status: Full Time

Reports To: Residential Supervisor

Position Supervises: NA

Work Schedule: Full-time position requiring flexible schedule

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lead Direct Support Professional (Lead DSP) provides hands-on support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as behavioral, emotional, or psychiatric disorders and takes on a leadership role in mentoring the Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) on the team. This position is responsible for modeling positive behaviors, ensuring the well-being and safety of all people supported, and assisting with daily living skills, such as personal care, meal planning, and household maintenance. The Lead DSP works closely with the Residential Supervisor to support menu planning, compliance paperwork, and overall program adherence.

In addition, the Lead DSP plays a key role in training new DSPs, leading by example to ensure program standards are maintained. Through effective communication, empathy, and professionalism, the Lead DSP fosters a supportive environment that promotes trust and teamwork. This position contributes to the people supported's independence and helps create a positive, empowering atmosphere for both staff and people supported.

By maintaining a caring and supportive environment, the Direct Support Professional serves as a positive role model and advocate for those in their care. The individual in this role must also represent Volunteers of America, Dakotas, in a professional and respectful manner, ensuring that the agency’s values of compassion, commitment, and empowerment are reflected in their daily actions. Working in collaboration with individuals, families, and other staff, the Direct Support Professional helps create a safe, nurturing space where individuals can thrive, reach their goals, and lead fulfilling lives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Individual Services

A. Read, understand and follow Individual Support Plans (ISP).

B. Ensure safety for all people in all environments.

C. Maintain safe and healthy living environments for people supported.

D. Provide transportation as needed based on availability.

E. Assist people supported in accessing and participating in community activities.

F. Follow VOA policies and procedures at all times.

Documentation and Communication

A. Ensure data is documented daily.

B. Submit monthly reports, not limited to:

• Approved Contacts
• Supply orders
• Fire/Severe Weather
• Maintenance and Sanitation Reports

C. Maintain a high level of communication with supervisor and support team.

D. Utilize agency email, EMAR and agency documentation systems as needed for communication

Support Services

A. Follow individual support plans and document daily.

B. Recognize and support mutually respectful partnerships among individuals, their families, communities, providers, and professionals.

C. Attend meetings, to include but not limited to: DSP meetings, house meetings and agency trainings.

Facility

A. Maintain a high standard of cleanliness in facility and report all maintenance issues.

B. Maintain safe working conditions.

C. Ensure vehicle safety and maintenance.

Responsible to carry out other duties as assigned to support program operations and goals.

POSITIONS QUALIFICATIONS SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education: Bachelor degree preferred

Experience: Six months of residential experience or an equivalent combination of education/experience

Skills: Excellent communication skills, time management are necessary

Certifications & Licenses: Valid driver’s license

Other Requirements: Requires consistent exercise of discretion and judgment in the performance of duties

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

A. Ability to Stand, Walk, sit, manually manipulate, reach outward and above shoulders, speak, climb, crawl, squat, kneel, and bend on a daily basis

B. Capability to Lift, carry, push or pull up to 100 lbs on a daily basis