Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Details Location: Joplin, MO 64804 Salary: $21.00 hourly (positions starting at $21.00 per hour) Overview The Arc invites you to join our team of value-driven and independent professionals. Help us fulfill our mission to support individuals with disabilities in enhancing the quality of their lives! Position Summary The Behavior Support Technician is a bridge between people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their communities. They mentor and coach individuals, providing supports to maximize independence, including daily life skills such as cooking, cleaning, hygiene, medication administration, behavioral care, and community participation. Key Responsibilities Educate and assist clients on personal hygiene, cooking, grocery shopping, cleaning, and other activities of daily living. Support clients in learning and encouraging coping skills to address challenging behaviors. Utilize verbal de-escalation and redirection to ensure client safety when necessary. Work with Behavior Analysis professionals to implement and follow recommended behavior support plans. Assist in purchasing groceries and supplies, and support meal preparation. Maintain a safe and clean environment in client homes. Assist in basic health care tasks, including temperature, pulse, blood pressure, respiration measurements, and simple dressings. Administer medications (oral, rectal, topical, etc.) after certification. Respond appropriately to emergencies such as fire, disaster, or urgent situations. Maintain inventory of supplies and coordinate ordering as needed. Observe, record, and report physical, emotional, and behavioral status changes, documenting progress on personal plans. Assist in new employee orientation and training. Encourage community participation and support engagement in vocational, domestic, and leisure activities. Training and Development Opportunities Paid initial and ongoing training certifications and professional development opportunities (CPR/First Aid, MANDT verbal and physical de-escalation, Paraclete, Level One Med Aide, etc.). Potential for annual wage increases and bonuses. Benefits Eligible for full-time employees: health insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, wellness reimbursement program, retirement plan (match up to 4% after one year). Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Good judgement and discretion. Flexible work hours and adaptability to changes. Respect and advocacy for persons with disabilities. Application of crisis intervention and behavior support techniques. Medication administration skills after certification. Ability to teach basic skills and model adaptive behaviors. Maintenance of a safe, clean, and agreeable environment. Accurate reporting and record keeping. Effective oral and written communication. Physical capability to stand, stoop, lift up to 50 lbs, and pull/push items. Pass satisfactory CPR, First Aid, and Behavior Intervention training. Record of punctuality and attendance. Licensed and insured driver; ability to obtain class E driver’s license if required. Minimum Experience and Training Qualifications Minimum of eighteen years of age and a high school diploma or equivalent. Successfully complete CPR/First Aid course. Successfully complete a 16-hour Medication Administration course. Successfully complete a 10-hour MANDT System Workshop. Successfully complete OSHA Health and Safety regulations course. Successfully complete Abuse & Neglect course. Successfully complete Electronic Documentation course. Other trainings per department or home location may be required. Traits and Characteristics Desired Passion for working with individuals with disabilities and increasing independence. Dedication to The Arc’s mission and served individuals. Establish rapport, effective communication, and positive work culture. Open to feedback, growth mindset, and willingness for learning. #J-18808-Ljbffr