Life Coach/Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Direct Support Professionals work directly with individuals who have intellectual or developmental disabilities. Day-to-day, they assist individuals with various daily activities in the day support or residential setting and provide programming and opportunities for socialization for members. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Implementing and following the policies and procedures of the Company.
• Observing and promoting the rights and personal dignity of others.
• Engaging or assisting in the person-centered care of individuals.
• Assisting individuals when entering and exiting vehicles while on community outings, as well as entering and exiting buildings safely.
• Maintaining effective working relationships with individuals and other employees.
• Setting up, executing, and breaking down each event.
• Supporting individuals with assistance during events.
• Safely guiding and engaging individuals in the community to interact with others.
• Safely transporting individuals to and from events utilizing company vehicle.
• Providing personal care during activities if necessary.
• Performs general housekeeping activities.
• Implementing and Documenting Individualized Support Plans and Progress
  Reports.
• Applying first aid, CPR and or Tova, when necessary.
• Attending all scheduled meetings/training for the well-being of the company.
• Administering medication, when necessary.
• Performs other related work, as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the human services field.
• Organizational skills.
• Active listening skills.
• Critical thinking skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. 
• Ability to exhibit empathy.
• Ability to advocate for the needs and rights of others.
• Ability to exhibit cultural competence.
• Ability to be patient with individuals/clients and others.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or G.E.D. required or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• At least one year of experience of working with individuals with intellectual and development disabilities.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be on-time to work, reliable, and dependable.
• Must possess basic computer skills and be able to use Microsoft applications.
• Preferred candidates are those who are TOVA, CPR, and medication administration certified.
• Must possess a valid Virginia Driver’s License in good standing.
• Must undergo and successfully pass a background check.

PYSICAL CONDITIONS AND NATURE OF WORK CONTACTS:

• Must be able to effectively and safely lift and transport individuals via wheelchair and able to lift, squat, bend, stoop, and crouch.
• May interact with the public, other Company employees, individual/clients’ families, and caseworkers/managers.

EVALUATION:

• Performance will be evaluated on the ability and effectiveness with which the incumbent accomplishes the above responsibilities.