TITLE:  Direct Support Professional III, Independent and Supported Living Services

Job Type: Full Time/ Part Time

Immediate Supervisor:  Program Director and Manager, Independent and Supported Living Services

Supervision Exercised: None

SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Program Director and Manager, this position is responsible for the implementation of Individual Service Plans (ISPs) to promote independence, personal skills, and a safe, secure environment for people served in our Supported and Independent Living (SLS/ILS) program. Direct Support Professional 3 (DSP 3) provides individualized, hands-on support to adults with higher needs, assisting with daily living, mobility, personal care, household tasks, and community access.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide hands-on assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), including toileting, dressing, hygiene, and personal care. 
• Assist with mobility and transfers, including weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing transfers, repositioning, and use of mobility devices such as Hoyer lifts and wheelchairs. 
• Assist with medication administration according to program policies and training.
• Assist with meal preparation, household tasks, and maintaining a safe and sanitary environment. 
• Support individuals in following their ISPs and care or treatment plans. 
• Support individuals in accessing community resources, transportation, and benefits (e.g., SSI/SSDI, housing, social services). 
• Assist community-based activities to enhance social engagement and integration. 
• Maintain accurate records of services provided, progress toward goals, and relevant observations. 
• Communicate concerns, incidents, or changes in condition to supervisors promptly. 
• Collaborate respectfully with individuals, families, caregivers, and other service providers. 
• Interact respectfully with persons served, using appropriate tone, language, and body language at all times.
• Respond calmly and effectively in urgent or emergency situations, following program procedures and crisis intervention protocols. 
• Work collaboratively with coworkers to provide consistent, high-quality support
• Maintain a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for all individuals served. 
• Provide support for multiple individuals during a shift if needed.
• Adapt schedules, routines, and responsibilities to meet changing individual or program needs. 
• Participate in required trainings, in-service programs, and staff meetings. 
• Follow all agency policies, procedures, and OSHA guidelines. 
• Collaborate with and support team members to ensure high-quality service delivery
• Provide hands-on assistance for higher physical or mobility needs, including safe use of Hoyer lifts, wheelchairs, and other mobility equipment.
• Other related duties, responsibilities, and special projects on an as needed basis

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand, sit, or walk for extended periods of time, including time spent outdoors.
• Ability to go up and down stairs as needed.
• Ability to safely push, pull, or maneuver individuals in manual and electric wheelchairs for extended periods.
• Ability to assist with bed rotations and repositioning to ensure comfort and safety of persons served.
• Ability to lift, support, and assist individuals, using proper body mechanics, up to 50 pounds as required for safe care.
• Ability to climb, stoop, twist, bend, and reach during daily activities and support tasks.
• Ability to use generic resources as needed to support daily activities and community engagement.
• Ability to speak, hear, read, and understand technical written materials and instructions.
• Full awareness of environmental stimuli to ensure safety for self and persons supported.
• Ability to implement Crisis Management, Safety, and Proact techniques (training provided).

Note: ADA accommodation avalable.

QUALIFICATIONS :

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least one (1) year of experience working with people with developmental and/or other disabilities in individual and/or group settings preferred.
• Experience supporting adults with complex, physical needs.
• Knowledge of, or ability to safely use, mobility and transfer equipment such as Hoyer lifts, wheelchairs, and gait belts.
• Ability to provide safe support with personal care, mobility, and medication administration in accordance with training and program policy.
• Empathy and active listening skills to support individuals with diverse needs respectfully and professionally.
• Ability to provide individualized, direct 1:1 support and build positive rapport with people served.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality regarding people served and other related information.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to respond effectively in emergencies and follow crisis intervention protocols.
• Flexibility to work variable shifts and support multiple individuals as needs change.
•  Computer proficiency (esp. Microsoft Office – Word, Outlook and web based tools, etc.)
• Will need to be available during any disasters, per disaster plan
• Must have a reliable phone for communication.
• Valid certification in CPR and First Aid (training included)

BENEFITS:

• Travel Stipend 
• Cell Phone Stipend
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Friends & Family Referral Bonus
• Direct Deposit
• Anniversary Bonus
• On-the-job Training Provided

Join our team today!