Direct Support Professional

JOB DESCRIPTION

Direct Support Professionals assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their community residential home with everyday tasks such as housekeeping, meal preparation, attending appointments and taking them to recreational/social activities and ensure proper supervision levels are maintained. Depending on the needs of the residents, these support professionals may also administer medications, implement a behavioral management plan, and maintain medical records.

Essential Job Functions

• Provide direct supervision to individuals in accordance with the treatment plan.
• Demonstrate competencies in the following areas: Task Analysis, Life Plan/ Staff Action Plan Goal Implementation, Job Coaching/Teaching, Report Writing, and Behavioral Interventions, (NH & NY Programs).
• Facilitate individual’s independence in community/centered-based activities, job tasks or in residential activities.
• Facilitate the development of appropriate social skills and encourage the establishment of social relationships.
• Develop and coordinate schedules, which reflect integrated opportunities for individuals, geared toward increasing independence, community access and awareness.
• Assist in development and revision of training plans, Life Plan/ Staff Action objectives and fading plans, (NH & NY Programs).
• Implement approved training and fading plans, Life Plan/ Staff Action objectives and behavior plans, (NH & NY Programs).
• Observe behavior, skill levels, areas of interest etc. to provide objective information and formulate data-based recommendations.
• Assure quality control standards in accordance with employer and volunteer expectations as applicable.
• Provide positive role modeling for individuals.
• Maintain documentation and prepare reports as required according to approved formats and designated timelines.
• Maintain documentation and authorization for dispensing medication as applicable.
• Transport individuals to and from program activities and or appointments in personal vehicle and/or agency van.
• Provide training in related skills i.e., self-care skills, money management, cooking, social interactions, transportation systems, etc. as approved by the treatment team.
• Provide services to individuals with varied behavior issues, which may include physical aggression, verbal assault, inappropriate sexual comments, gestures and/or acts.
• Assist individual with personal care needs when necessary.
• Communicate pertinent information with the team and support system to allow the individual to receive the maximal benefit from the services offered.
• Demonstrate appropriate judgement and understanding of client safety while supporting individuals.
• Follow through with supervisory requests and seek supervision when unclear about expectations.
• Perform and/or assist with routine household task including meal preparation, housekeeping and outdoor maintenance as applicable.
• Participate in available training opportunities geared toward expanding knowledge of treatment methods. Twenty hours of training is required per year.
• Follow all policies and procedures as outlined by the department and agency.
• Perform additional duties as requested to fulfill the Agency mission.

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• High School education or GED required.
• Two (2) years’ work experience preferred.
• Commitment to providing high-quality services to individuals with disabilities in community and residential settings
• Able to be medication certified (AMAP).
• Able to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Valid driver’s license for use in regular transportation of program participants.

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Equal Opportunity Employer

About Us

Mission: To create futures one person at a time for people with disabilities and other barriers through employment and support services.

MVLE is about working with purpose to employ and support individuals living with disabilities. Since 1971, MVLE has successfully provided a broad range of services that cater to the diverse needs of individuals through specialized training and services to foster their personal and professional growth. MVLE provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities to find their independence through community-based social activities, supported employment and customized skills training.

Together, we work to accomplish these goals by utilizing an extensive network of partners and cultivating relationships with government and affiliate agencies.

MVLE joined The Fedcap Group in 2018.

Website: https://www.mvle.org/