Direct Support Professional, 3rd Shift

Monday-Thursday 1030pm-830am

The Residential Group Home Direct Support Professional (DSP) works in the group home environment with students with developmental disabilities and severe behavior problems. DSPs work directly with students, sometimes in a one-to-one capacity, in order to promote independence in the areas of communication, self-help, social skills, and functional living skills.  

 Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, clean, and nurturing environment that meets and/or exceeds all requirements set forth by Heartspring.
• Provide a structured environment for students by following the schedule of activities that promotes the student’s learning opportunities and their independent living skills.
• Implement and document the students’ training programs as prescribed in the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or informal training programs.
• Implement, document, and provide input into the Student Support Plan (SSP), as outlined by the psychology department.
• Implement and document student-specific training in specialized areas, as prescribed by the students’ teams (i.e., Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech Therapy).
• Escort students to off-campus events, including special outings, field trips, and healthcare appointments.
• Perform and assist with non-violent behavior management system for crisis intervention as needed.
• Adhere to all procedures and techniques as outlined in the Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training (NCI) training.
• Communicate effectively with students, parents, team members, supervisors, and all persons involved in the students’ programs.
• Document and/or report any health concerns, whether ongoing (i.e. diabetes, seizures) or emergent (i.e., lacerations, bruises).
• Document and report any instances of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or other unusual incidents or events, as per Heartspring and Department of Child & Family Services guidelines.
• Prompt and regular attendance is required; working on major holidays is necessary, as scheduled.
• Assist in training and welcoming new Direct Support Professionals.
• Provide specific verbal praise for students throughout the day.
• Prepare and serve meals for students as needed, based on dietary restrictions and programming needs.
• Provide for the safety and protection of the students in the event of an emergency (fire, tornado, severe weather, etc.), whether on campus or out in the community.
• Label and maintain students’ clothing and personal belongings and notifying the supervisor of any needs in a timely manner.
• Complete other duties, as assigned.