Direct Support Professional - New Milford, NJ

Overview Key/Essential Functions & Responsibilities: Assist individuals in maximizing their strengths, interests, and abilities; uphold personal rights; provide patient emotional support; build positive relationships; help individuals develop goals that enhance quality of life; encourage socializing and facilitate meaningful community connections. Responsibilities Overall supervision, protection, and care of individuals at all times, maintaining program guidelines. Facilitate learning and training in fire safety and identify or escalate concerns about potential harm to self or others. Ensure health, wellness, and safety by providing appropriate supervision and managing crisis situations in accordance with policies and regulations. Support individuals in varied settings using individualized plans and behavior support strategies (Behavior Support Plans, Individualized Service Plans, Staff Action Plans, Life Plans). Maintain a clean, safe, and organized therapeutic environment; implement safe handling procedures and infection control protocols. Assist with personal care and activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, laundry, and housekeeping. Develop habilitative and rehabilitative skills; provide person‑centered advocacy; assist with communication, self‑expression, dispute resolution, and ethical decision making. Plan, prepare, and supervise balanced meals and snacks in line with dietary restrictions and individual guidelines. Transport and escort individuals to recreational activities, medical appointments, home visits, volunteer or employment sites; coordinate schedules for volunteer opportunities, community and therapeutic activities. Assist with purchasing personal allowance funds and safeguard additional funds. Administer medication as prescribed, manage medication inventories, perform cabinet checks, and reorder supplies as needed. Schedule and coordinate medical appointments and ensure follow‑ups are attended. Use petty cash and house funds, obtain and maintain documentation or receipts in accordance with rules. Operate agency vehicles for transportation, updating logs and maintenance sheets. Develop specialized clinical knowledge for person‑specific needs (e.g., autism spectrum disorders, complex medical needs). Implement Behavior Support Plans, collect, record, and summarize behavior data, and report changes to the clinical or leadership team. Communicate with support circles, families, and external providers via phone, email, or in person to provide updates or obtain information. Maintain teamwork, provide feedback, and address programmatic needs while fostering a solution‑oriented approach during conflicts. Complete required trainings and certifications, including specialized training as directed by program and position. Review daily communication logs, enter events, progress notes, and essential data into electronic health record or medication record systems. Complete all required paperwork (e.g., incident reports, maintenance requests) with accuracy and within timeline. Use progressive teaching and person‑centered behavior strategies to support positive interactions and prevent escalation. Report maintenance, safety concerns, and collaborate with leadership and clinical staff for optimal care. Provide cover across various settings, including off‑site locations such as hospitals, as needed. Assist with the development of treatment plans if called upon. Comply with all federal, state, local, and regulatory requirements, including HIPAA. Perform any other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications At least 18 years old; high school diploma or equivalent. Valid driver’s license with no more than five points. Physical capability to walk, sit, stand, bend, twist, stoop, kneel, crouch, push, pull, and lift/move individuals or objects up to 25 pounds. Ability to assist with lifting or moving individuals of any weight using mechanical lifts or other equipment. Basic written and oral communication skills for documentation and billing. Enthusiasm for working with people with intellectual or developmental disabilities; patience, empathy, and positivity. Ready to handle bodily fluids and assist with various ADLs. Basic computer skills, including email and use of Workday and related systems. Obtain and maintain certifications: Non‑Crisis Intervention training, American Heart Association CPR/First Aid, NJ Medication Administration, Positive Behavioral Supports (within 120 days of appointment). Professional relationship skills aligned with YAI’s mission and vision. React calmly in stressful situations and work in fast‑paced environments. Be willing to work beyond scheduled hours, including holidays, inclement weather, or other emergencies to meet program coverage requirements. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting people with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Knowledge of intellectual and developmental disabilities, associated clinical syndromes, and co‑occurring behavioral or mental health needs. Schedule Sunday – Thursday, 3pm – 11pm Compensation $19 per hour Benefits DailyPay available; tuition reimbursement; medical and dental insurance (including optional family coverage); vision coverage for full‑time positions; paid vacation, holiday, and sick time; 403(b) retirement with employer matching; life and long‑term disability insurance; discounts on travel, entertainment, wireless services, shopping, and more. Equal Opportunity Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or status as a Vietnam or disabled veteran. YAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. YAI Network prohibits nepotism in the hiring process. #J-18808-Ljbffr YAI - Seeing beyond disability