Direct Support Professional
JOB DESCRIPTION
Title: Direct Support Professional
Reports to: Program Manager
Program: Residential Services
Purpose of Position: We are not trying to “fix people’s deficits so they can move on to the next step”. We give support and assistance to the individual, whatever his/her needs. We promote problem solving and develop strategies to overcome obstacles, to promote dreams, opportunity, growth and laughter.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Statements included in this job description are the essential functions of this position. However, this position performs all duties within a team, which may allow for specific accommodations when needed. Other non-essential functions may be assigned.
I. Overall Organization Expectations
A. Receptivity to change:
1. Initiate change instead of reacting to external pressures.
2. Continually seeks out and utilizes “best practices.”
3. Seeks constructive feedback from others including team members and supervisors.
4. Creates an environment in which change is non-threatening.
B. Team Work
1. Respects and leverages talents of others.
2. Supports, and contributes, to an environment of trust, sharing, growth, and mutual support.
3. Helps provide leadership and direction to the team.
4. Communicates in an open, candid manner.
C. Mission, Vision and Values
1. Demonstrates an overall commitment to the organization’s mission and values.
2. Incorporates organization principles (individuality, choice, respect, participation, competence, social connectedness, and natural supports) into all facets of the job.
3. Actively advocates for individuals rights, wants and needs.
D. Efficiency/Accountability
1. Practices effective time management and work ethic.
2. Works with and supports team members to obtain required level of productivity and outcomes.
3. Follows through on commitments. Maintains and submits all required documentation, reports and data in a timely manner.
E. Customer Service
1. Effectively communicates vision and mission with customers.
2. Presents self and organization in a positive, professional manner.
3. Regularly seeks feedback and input from customers. Deals with customer complaints in a consistent, timely and professional manner.
4. Participates with team members and all staff in the continued evaluation of the organization’s effectiveness.
5. Provides assistance to people supported as needed.
II. Specific Job Duties
A. Community Development and Support
1. Establishes relationship with community businesses, clubs, civic groups, and organizations and arranges quality individual community participation.
2. Makes introductions and serves as a bridgebuilder between community members and persons assigned.
3. Coordinates any supports or training needed to maintain community relationship including travel training, interpersonal skills, or family support.
4. Provides education, consultation, and support to community members as needed.
B. Residential Support
1. Provides supports in a flexible manner that is most comfortable and effective for the individual.
2. Provides supports which recognize gifts and talents.
3. May provide support in or assistance with any of the following: cooking, meal planning, shopping, budgeting, bill paying, banking, laundry, self-advocacy, transportation, solving day-to-day problems, developing friendships, interacting with neighbors, taking medications, household tasks and maintenance, recreational planning, accessing community resources, personal care and emotional support.
4. Support and encourage personal growth.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
A. High School Diploma or GED
B. Functional reading and writing skills
C. Valid Maine State Drivers License
D. Effective transportation to work sites
E. Willingness to work nonstandard/flexible hours, including some evenings and
Weekends
F. Must be in good physical health to be able to push, lift and transfer individuals weighing more than 50 pounds with two assist and/or mechanical lifts repeatedly throughout the shift as individual needs warrant
G. Experience working with people with developmental disabilities preferred
H. CRMA as required by licensing
Classification: Hourly