Direct Support Professional

Job DetailsJob Location: Torrington, CTSalary Range: $17.00 - $18.00 HourlyTravel Percentage: Willing toTravelFLSA Status: This position is considered NON-EXEMPT in relation to the pay provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The work schedule is a “flex schedule” in that it may require work 1st, 2nd, or 3rd shift based on the needs of the individuals served by Change Incorporated. This position may be assigned to work in various locations/homes. If working hours extend beyond normal business hours, compensation will follow wage and hour guidelines established under the Fair Labor Standards Act as identified in the Change Inc’s Personnel Policies and Procedures.     Reports To: Care Supervisor Purpose: Services are in place to provide services to the participant in his/her home and in other community settings. Responsibilities: 1. Performing the following tasks if the participant (by reason of physical or psychiatric disability) is unable to perform them, or assisting, or cueing the participant to perform them: a. Meal planning and preparation, shopping, housekeeping (e.g., changing linens, washing dishes, vacuuming/ dusting, laundry, mending clothing repairs), basic household tasks (e.g., regulating home temperature, storing food appropriately, resolving issues about bill paying). b. Dressing, personal grooming and hygiene. c. Appropriate use of emergency medical services. 2. Assisting or cueing the participant to perform or become engaged in: a. Family, social, and recreational activities. b. Appropriate use of natural community supports (e.g., social clubs, faith-based supports). c. Appropriate use of routine medical/ dental services d. Use of medications as prescribed, including self-administration of medications. e. Healthy habits (e.g., healthy diet, exercise, and behaviors designed to alleviate stress). f. Fulfillment of personal commitments, and adherence to scheduled appointments/ meetings (e.g., clinical, vocational, educational, and judicial/court) 3. Assisting or cueing to avoid: a. Risky behaviors (e.g., unprotected sex, smoking/excessive use of tobacco products, unsafe driving/ driving without a seat belt, unsafe relationships, and criminal activities). b. Substance abuse c. Overspending d. Unnecessary conflicts 4. Supportive and Problem solving-oriented discussions with the participant 5. Establishing and maintaining a helpful, supportive, companionship relationship with the participant that involves such activities as: a. Escorting the participant to necessary medical, dental, or personal business appointments b. Reading to or for the participant c. Engaging in or discussing recreational, hobby, or sport-related activities 6. Other activities directed at reducing disability, restoring participant functioning, and achieving independent participation in social, interpersonal, family, or community activities and full community re-integration and independence.Qualifications