Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional (Part-Time in State College, PA) Reportable to the assigned Supervisor or Program Coordinator, the Direct Support Professional provides support and care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism in their homes and communities. The overall goal of the Direct Support Professional is to carry out The Arc of Centre County’s mission – to embody and protect the human rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to practice person-centered planning which actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. The DSP will be assigned to work in a community home (or homes) owned by The Arc. Additional Benefits for All Employees: New Hire Referral Bonuses up to $600 Paid Training (26 hours per year) Mileage reimbursement (if applicable for community-based roles) Retirement Plan Options Holiday pay or differential pay for eligible shifts Essential Functions: Provide direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism in their homes and communities Assist with daily living skills such as cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, shopping, and budgeting Support individuals in building independence, communication skills, and self-advocacy Encourage and facilitate community participation, social activities, and meaningful relationships Provide safe transportation to appointments, activities, and community outings Administer medications and provide basic health-related support as trained and assigned Monitor health and safety, respond appropriately in emergencies, and follow all safety procedures Complete accurate, timely documentation, including daily notes and incident reports Follow each individual’s support plan and implement services as written Maintain confidentiality and follow all HIPAA, agency, and regulatory requirements Work collaboratively with coworkers, families, guardians, and outside professionals Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment in homes and community settings Participate in required trainings, meetings, and ongoing professional development To perform this position successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: Leadership Skills: Demonstrates ethics and integrity; shows initiative and responsibility; is willing to learn and grow; adapts to change; communicates effectively; values diversity; and builds positive working relationships. Communication Skills: Speaks and writes clearly and professionally; follows written instructions accurately; and pays close attention to detail when reading and documenting information. Teamwork: Works well as part of a team by supporting coworkers and contributing to shared goals. Maintains a positive attitude, is open to feedback, and helps create a respectful and collaborative work environment. Quality of Work: Pays attention to detail and accuracy. Strives to improve performance, uses feedback constructively, and ensures work is completed correctly and consistently. Independence & Time Management: Works independently under supervision, prioritizes tasks effectively, manages time well, and completes responsibilities on time or communicates when adjustments are needed. Interpersonal Skills: Interacts respectfully and professionally with people from diverse backgrounds. Maintains confidentiality and remains open to others’ perspectives. Financial Responsibility: Handles money and financial records accurately and responsibly, including individual funds and agency-related expenses. Qualifications: 18 years of age or older. High School Diploma or equivalent. Previous experience working with individuals with an intellectual disability, behavioral health and/or medical needs is preferred (but not required). Essential physical skills – be able to run, squat, stoop/bend, kneel, climb stairs, be able to lift at least 50 pounds (or ¼ own body weight), push and pull against potential resistance; and be able to implement non-physical and physical interventions and CPR with people supported when needed. Adequate vision, reading, writing and documentation skills and hearing to perform the essential functions of the job. Able to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, overnight periods, and holidays. Demonstrated ability to adhere to the required schedule for the job. Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and be able to transport individuals in The Arc vehicles. The DSP will be required to have motor vehicle reports completed on the date of hire (or up to five days prior) and periodically throughout their employment. Some assignments (i.e. - HCS) require the use of the DSP’s personal vehicle. If the DSP is assigned to HCS or another service that requires personal vehicle transport, the DSP will provide The Arc with the required documentation and be approved to provide such transportation. Able to provide assistance, as needed, in safely loading and unloading vehicle passengers and assist individuals to safety in emergency situations. Must obtain a physical examination/TB test as required by Office of Developmental Programming (ODP) regulations and is required to have this repeated biannually. Obtain criminal clearances as required. These could include: the Pennsylvania criminal history check, FBI criminal history check, and child abuse clearances in accordance with ODP regulations. Join Us! Interested in making a difference in the lives of people in your community? #J-18808-Ljbffr