Direct Support Professional

I. Title: Direct Support Professional

II. Reports to: Residential Program Manager/Program Director and/or Designee 

III. Qualifications: A High School Diploma or equivalent is desired.

Basic Computer skills

Valid drivers license with a driving record acceptable for insurance purposes

Acceptable criminal records check (FBI and/or ICHAT), meeting the Agencies definition of acceptable moral character.

Written and verbal skills sufficient to complete the job description

V. Additional Qualifications:

Health: Required pre-employment physical including a negative drug screen and negative TB test. Physical requirements will include but may not be limited to lifting (50 pounds), bending, squatting, standing, stooping, kneeling, etc., on a regular basis without restriction.

Knowledge: Basic understanding of the individuals served.

Skills: Ability to read, write and understand all Agency and Program documents.

Judgment: Work on a day-to-day basis without immediate direction from Supervisory staff.

Performance Standards:

a. Adhere to Agency code of ethics

b. Maintain confidentiality of individuals served/co-workers

c. Effective teamwork

d. Interact with individuals served, co-workers and the public in a polite professional manner.

e. Trustworthiness and dependability so individuals and their families feel they can rely on services to be provided.

 Level of Access – Full access to clinical and demographic records, partial access to financial records.

Specific Responsibilities:

Program Management

a. Follow all I.M.P.A.C.T. and regulatory agency policies and procedures.

b. Complete all required paperwork/documentation correctly, neatly and on time.

c. Follow all health and safety rules and policies.

d. Complete or assist with housekeeping tasks to maintain the facility in a clean, safe, and healthy condition.

e. Prepare and/or assist to cook meals according to written menus, recipes, or preferences.

Direct Support Services

a. Immediately report any suspected abuse and/or neglect.

b. Ensure the rights of individuals served are always upheld.

c. Assist individuals with daily personal tasks, including bathing, dressing, toileting, teaching self-care skills, cooking meals, doing laundry, etc.

d. Dispense medications to individuals, ordered by the physician, following agency policies and procedures.

e. Encourage individuals’ engagement in social networks and communities.

f. Help individuals organize schedules, plan appointments and transportation.

g. Monitor and complete services for individuals as outlined in their individual plan of service (IPOS). Make recommendations regarding services as needed.

h. Business needs may at times make the following conditions necessary: overtime, work at another agency home, or adjustments in current work schedule.

  General

a. Report any problems or concerns to the immediate Supervisor.

b. Promote an atmosphere that is positive, cooperative, and secure.

c. Avoid rumors, gossip, or bringing personal business into the workplace that may negatively affect the individuals served.

d. Complete new employee orientation and Agency trainings within required time frames.