Direct Support Professional

Description

The Direct Support Professional will be responsible for providing direct support to participants receiving services that will promote community integration and independent living. Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for the safe transportation of participants (including those who utilize wheelchairs and/or other mobility devices) from their homes and on community outings.
• Responsible for implementation of the Participant’s Staff Action Plan as determined by the individual, family and service planning team. Works with participants on their valued outcomes (goals) as outlined in the participant’s community habilitation staff action plan.
• Ensures that participants work on stated goals as they participate in various community activities.
• Mediates in a diplomatic manner any issues and problems that may come up during daily activities.
• Ensures that participants have every opportunity to participate in chosen activities to the extent they are able that the activity is adapted or modified to meet the needs of the individual.
• Works with participants in accomplishing goals and valued outcomes as outlined in the individual’s community habilitation staff action plan.
• Provides input to the Employment & Family Services Director and Program Coordinator for goals to be included in the participant’s Community Habilitation Mentor action plans.
• Works with participants in the community for skill acquisition and to gain independence.
• Demonstrates sensitivity to the personal needs of individuals in the program and their families and responds appropriately.
• Utilize AWARDS database and enters progress notes contemporaneously for documentation of services. Completes daily and monthly paperwork in a timely manner as required by program regulations set forth by the HVDDSO and OPWDD
• Completes all required OPWDD and Independent Living training and participates in annual refresher training.
• Meets regularly with Community Habilitation Coordinator and other members of the team to ensure services are appropriate and meet the participant’s needs, likes and choices.
• The above list of responsibilities is not intended to be all inclusive, other responsibilities and/or training may be assigned or required.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working with people with developmental disabilities is strongly preferred.
• Spanish speaking a plus.
• Valid, NYS Driver License with clean driving record, and proof of current Auto Insurance.
• Strong communication skills; both written and oral.
• Knowledge of available community resources.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Must be dependable, flexible and positive in approach, organized and hard working.
• Honesty, respect for diversity, high personal standards, language and behaviors reflecting such values and the Independent Living philosophy.