Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are essential in empowering individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities to lead self-directed lives, contribute to their communities, and achieve greater independence. DSPs provide high-quality support across all areas of daily living and individualized care, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

• Daily Living Support: Teach and support essential skills such as personal care, meal preparation and planning, and daily living tasks to promote independence. This includes assistance with cooking, bathing, and other personal care needs.
• Community Engagement: Facilitate community integration and involvement, helping individuals build meaningful connections.
• Health and Safety: Administer medications, provide first aid, assist with medical appointments, and monitor health conditions, ensuring optimal well-being. Safeguard individuals from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Advocacy and Rights: Utilize Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) and People First approaches to uphold and advocate for the rights, autonomy, and choices of individuals.
• Individualized Support Plans: Collaborate with individuals to develop and implement customized support plans that build on strengths, choices, and capabilities, ensuring alignment with personal goals.
• Documentation and Privacy: Maintain accurate, detailed documentation and respect the privacy and confidentiality of the individuals supported.
• Collaboration and Communication: Build positive, collaborative relationships with individuals, colleagues, and other stakeholders, actively involving individuals in decision-making and supporting them in learning new skills across various settings.
• Emergency and Safety Compliance: Be prepared to respond effectively to emergencies and ensure compliance with all safety standards and procedures, including fire and disaster planning.

Pathfinder's mission is to strengthen communities by enabling people with disabilities or economic challenges to achieve autonomy, inclusion, and stability.

Benefits & Pathfinder Perks We Care About YOU!

• Competitive Pay & Paid Training Earn while you learn with comprehensive training.
• Paid Time Off & Holidays Maintain a healthy work-life balance with PTO and paid holidays.
• Comprehensive Insurance Coverage Medical, Dental, and Vision plans to support your well-being.
• Employer-Paid Coverage Enjoy free Basic Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability (LTD).
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match Plan for your future with a generous retirement savings plan and employer contributions.
• Tuition Reimbursement Invest in your future with financial assistance for continued education.
• Professional Development & Training Enhance your skills and career through learning opportunities.
• Person-Centered Thinking Training Gain valuable insights into individualized care and service.

Pathfinder Perks:

• Wellness Platform Incentives Earn rewards for prioritizing your health and well-being.
• Financial Wellness Platform Access earned wages before payday for added financial flexibility.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Free, confidential support sessions for employees and their immediate household members.
• Free Pathfinder Kids Clinic Providing childcare for children in the community with minor illnesses.
• Exclusive Discounts Save with special offers, including:
• Verizon Wireless Discount Stay connected for less.
• YMCA Discount Enjoy reduced membership rates for fitness and wellness.

Pathfinder Values: People First Integrity - Contribution Growth Empowerment

Requirements

Preferred Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum of a high school diploma/GED.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Basic language, written, and computer skills necessary for communication and documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to support people with disabilities.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule if needed.
• Crisis prevention, intervention, and teaching skills.
• Valid driver's license, insured vehicle, and safe driving record.
• Ability to speak, hear, and read the English language.
• Be able to run, squat, stoop/bend, kneel, climb stairs, lift up to 50 pounds, push and pull against potential resistance.
• Implement non-physical and approved physical interventions and CPR with people supported when needed.
• Shall have adequate vision, writing, and documentation skills to perform the job's essential functions.