Direct Support Professional - Willimantic, CT (40 hrs/wk)

Job Summary:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP)will provide individualized support to individuals(s) with intellectual disabilities. The DSP must be able to effectively work with or without direct supervision, work cooperatively within a team setting, handle crisis situations calmly and professionally and interact with others in a courteous and professional manner. The DSP must also be able to adapt to the flexible nature of the job and work in a busy and fast paced environment.

Supervisor:

• Receives supervision from Residential Program Manager.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Provide daily instruction and assistance in accordance with each person’s individual need, including, but not limited to:

• Meal planning and preparation/menus and dietary guidelines followed.
• Leisure time planning and development of hobbies.
• Medication administration.
• Money management and making purchases of personal items.
• Transportation.
• Home maintenance.
• Personal hygiene.
• Personal appointments, medical appointments, and social commitments.

• Complete all necessary documentation while on shift to include, but not limited to behavior plans, individual's goals, financial records, communication log, nursing log, incident reports and medication Kardex.
• Maintain records of supported individual(s) care, conditions, progress, or problems to report and discuss observations with manager/supervisor and clinical.
• Provide necessary support/ treatment and documentation for unusual incidents.
• Ensure confidentiality of individuals supported and the agency.
• Maintain positive and diplomatic relationships with families, advocates and friends of the individuals supported by the agency.
• Accompany supported individual(s) to doctors’ offices and/or on other trips outside the home, providing transportation, assistance, and companionship.
• Responsibly manage and record house petty cash and the funds of each supported individual according to agency policy.
• Work cooperatively and professionally with coworkers, residential support managers administrative personnel, clinical and community providers.
• Read all daily communications, keep updated on relevant issues and communicate problems/ concerns involving individuals supported in the program to the support manager.
• Throughout employment successfully meet and maintain the requirements of all certifications and training as established by regulatory bodies and the agency’s policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures and respond appropriately as needed.
• Attend and participate in required staff meetings.
• Provide emergency coverage as needed.
• Perform other related duties as requested.

Required Skills/Abilities: 

• Strong customer service orientation.
• Experience working with people who are intellectually/developmentally disabled preferred.
• Understanding of basic concepts of personal care, housekeeping and other care areas.
• Intermediate technology and computer ability.

Education and Experience:

• Current driver's license required.
• High school diploma or equivalent required. 
• At least one year experience preferred.

Physical Requirements: 

• Prolonged periods of standing, sitting, walking.
• Ability to bend, push, pull and lift.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times. 

Note: The elements listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or logical assignment to the position.