Direct Support Professional Float

Job Summary:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) Floater is an active member of a team providing supported services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities following the framework outlined in organizational policies and procedures.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized, direct care support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to maintain independent living while monitoring health and safety.
• Advocate for and promote individual choice and involvement for individuals served.
• Communicate with individuals, co-workers, and other stakeholders in a prompt and professional manner.
• Attend training and professional development sessions as requested.
• Assist with individuals’ transportation and appointments.
• Administer medication and first aid.
• Complete required service documentation accurately and timely.
• Maintain knowledge and training of multiple service locations.
• Perform other duties as requested.

Required Skills/Abilities: 

• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn organizational technology and software systems.
• Ensure the confidentiality of individuals served, employees, and organizational information. 
• Able to work cooperatively with a diverse group of people.
• Respond to stressful situations in a calm and professional manner, reflecting a positive image of the organization in the community. 
• Demonstrate a positive, solution-oriented approach.
• Adhere to established safety protocols.
• Meet organizational insurability standards and have a valid Iowa driver’s license.
• Willing to work a flexible schedule that changes from month to month.
• Willingness and ability to accept, consider, and respond to feedback.

Physical Requirements: Qualifications:

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds with or without assistance.
• Must be able to access all areas of assigned work locations.

Qualifications:

• A high school diploma or GED is required. Experience working with individuals who have developmental disabilities is preferred, but not required.
• The successful completion of training to dispense medications to members will be required if the assigned members require staff members to administer their medications.
• A Direct Support Professional must have a valid Iowa driver’s license, and provide proof of insurance coverage. Direct Support Professional must provide proof of obtaining an Iowa driver’s license within 30 days of employment. Direct Support Professional will provide transportation in Discovery Living owned vehicles and must be insurable through the agency insurance carrier.

Competencies:

• Individuals working with members in the Supported Living Program must be able to:
• Provide support services in a way that relies on mutual respect between member and support staff.
• Must be able to understand, access and utilize company computer hardware, software and systems in order to promptly and accurately document and submit required reports, data and other forms of electronic documentation.
• Demonstrate a dedication to member empowerment by providing decision-making opportunities in all aspects of daily living.
• Organize work, be good at solving problems, be a sound decision-maker, display good communication skills, and give careful attention to details.
• Cooperate with team members to accomplish team and organizational goals, and be able to adjust to, and manage change.
• Must be dependable and enthusiastic about performing the job to the best of their ability. They must give attention to their personal appearance and reflect a positive image in the community, and they must work diligently toward total community inclusion.
• Because the work schedule may vary from day to day and week to week, the Direct Support Professional must be flexible and willing to work with the support team in meeting the needs of the member. 
• Have the flexibility to work at multiple home locations and retain knowledge to best serve individual needs.