Direct Service Worker

POSITION SUMMARY

A Direct Support Worker is responsible for assisting in the coordination of residential services and providing care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The position calls for the care and close supervision of individuals in a residential setting.

GENERAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

1. Treat individuals with respect, dignity and compassion at all times

2. Daily living 

• Clean, maintain and participate in the upkeep of the home and properties to ensure client and staff safety
•  Assist individuals with:
  •  Plan, purchase and prepare meals according to individual’s dietary needs
  •  Plan and participate in leisure time and recreational activities
  • New social opportunities/experiences to the individuals
  •  Cope effectively with social, emotional and physical situations
  • Assist clients with daily living activities (dressing, showering, etc) as needed

3. Documentation / Communication:

Documentation provided by staff is considered a legal document. Ensure all individual data is recorded accurately in individual’s record in Therap and all program documentation is competed on time

• Accumulate and record data relevant to behavioral programs, review individuals progress, developmental needs and barriers impeding progress
• Identify and prioritize individuals' needs
• Complete comprehensive documentation
• Report seizures, behavioral episodes, injury or illness, client concerns, and/or other medically or emotionally related problems to the house manager, supervisor, nurse and team members. Reports suspected allegation of abuse/neglect to the Abuse Investigation Division in a timely manner immediately.
• Report any incidents or evidence of violation of residents’ rights to Administrator and/or appropriate parties immediately.
• Ensure regular, professional communication with all team members

4. Trainings

• Attend and successfully complete all mandatory trainings/meetings required by DDS and the agency.
• Successful completion of DDS Medication Administration Certification. Yearly maintenance of Med Certification

5. HIPAA

• Maintain and safeguard individuals' private information. This includes but is not limited to diagnoses, health record, and program documentation.

6. Additional duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor's degree preferred or High school Diploma with 2 years’ experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
2. Must have Medication Administration Certification or must be able to obtain Medication Administration Certification upon the next available Med Cert Course immediately following hire.
3. Demonstrates organizational ability, communicates effectively with individuals served and members of the team.
4. Applicants will be subject to criminal and driving history background checks. Must have a valid Connecticut driver’s license with no more than 2 violations in a three year period, subject to review. Drivers’ History completed annually.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 

Catholic Charities offers access to a comprehensive array of benefits, including: 

For Good Health: Medical, Prescription, Dental and Vision insurance 

For a Secure Future: Employer paid Life, AD&D and Long-term disability insurance and voluntary options
 

For Retirement: 403(b) Plan, with employer matching contributions for eligible employees 

For Career Advancement: Training and development opportunities

For Work Life Balance: Generous paid time off; including vacation and sick time. 

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free and confidential counseling 

Catholic Charities Inc., Archdiocese of Hartford is in compliance with all applicable discrimination laws. All hiring, promoting, and transferring is done on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to membership in any protected class. EEO/ AA/ M-F/ VET/ DISABLED.