DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL-HOURLY

Residential Services | Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Direct Support Professional (DSP) Residential Services | Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Location: New Jersey Department: Residential Services Reports To: Residential Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Schedule: Day, Evening, Overnight, Weekend, and Holiday Shifts Available Position Summary Advancing Opportunities is seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral health challenges in residential and community settings. As a DSP, you will play a critical role in helping individuals achieve greater independence, enhance their quality of life, and maintain their health, safety, and well-being. Working collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team, you will support daily living activities, community participation, skill development, and individualized service goals while promoting dignity, choice, inclusion, and personal growth. Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesIndividual Support & Care Provide direct care, supervision, and support to individuals in residential settings. Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including: Personal hygiene and grooming Dressing and personal care Meal planning and preparation Household tasks and organization Support implementation of Individual Service Plans (ISP) and behavior support plans. Encourage independence, self-advocacy, and development of daily living skills. Foster a safe, respectful, and supportive environment that promotes dignity and privacy. Utilize person-centered and trauma-informed care practices. Implement positive behavioral support strategies as needed. Community Integration Support individuals in participating in community activities, recreational programs, employment opportunities, educational programs, religious services, and family visits. Encourage meaningful relationships and community involvement. Assist with the development of social, communication, and independent living skills. Health, Safety & Medication Administration Monitor the health, safety, and overall well-being of individuals served. Administer medications and maintain accurate medication administration records in accordance with agency policies and state regulations. Implement prescribed healthcare plans and monitor for changes in health status. Respond appropriately to emergencies, incidents, and safety concerns. Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation in accordance with agency procedures and legal requirements. Maintain current CPR, First Aid, and all required certifications. Documentation & Compliance Complete timely and accurate documentation, including: Daily progress notes Activity logs Medication Administration Records (MARs) Incident and accident reports Behavioral and goal-tracking documentationHealth monitoring records Consumer fund records and receipts Vehicle logs and other required documentation Maintain confidentiality and ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations. Support licensing, audits, inspections, and regulatory compliance activities. Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and supervision sessions. Transportation & Household Responsibilities Safely transport individuals to medical appointments, community activities, employment programs, and other destinations. Assist with: Grocery shopping Meal preparation Housekeeping and organization Basic home maintenance tasks Maintain a clean, safe, and organized residential environment that meets licensing standards. Team Collaboration Collaborate effectively with Residential Managers, Lead DSPs, healthcare professionals, family members, and other stakeholders. Assist with implementing individualized goals and support plans. Participate in emergency response efforts, on-call coverage, and special projects as needed. Perform additional duties as assigned to support quality services and organizational objectives. Qualifications Required Qualifications High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required. Must be at least 21 years of age. Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record. Ability to pass all required background checks and clearances. Ability to successfully complete all required training, including CPR and First Aid certification. Preferred Qualifications Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field. Six (6) months to one (1) year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or working in a human services environment. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to establish positive relationships with individuals, families, and team members. Knowledge of person-centered planning and trauma-informed care practices. Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills. Ability to work independently while maintaining accountability and professionalism. Strong documentation and recordkeeping abilities. Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications, email, and electronic documentation systems. Ability to remain calm and professional during emergencies and crisis situations. Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards. Physical Requirements Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, stoop, and provide physical assistance throughout the workday. Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to operate a motor vehicle and safely transport individuals served. Ability to work in residential and community-based environments throughout New Jersey. Ability to respond quickly and appropriately to emergency situations. Work Schedule This position requires flexibility to meet the needs of the individuals served and may include: Day, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts Overtime as needed On-call responsibilities Emergency coverage assignments Why Join Us? As a Direct Support Professional, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through compassionate care and dedicated support, you will help individuals build independence, achieve personal goals, and become active members of their communities. Join a mission-driven organization that values compassion, respect, inclusion, and excellence while providing opportunities for professional growth and career development. About Advancing Opportunities & Apis Services Advancing Opportunities, Inc., an affiliate of Apis Services, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing services and supports that empower people with disabilities and their families to live independently. Recognized as one of New Jersey's leading disability service providers, Advancing Opportunities is committed to delivering innovative, person-centered services throughout the community. Apis Services, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Inperium, Inc., provides administrative and shared services to a network of more than 30 nonprofit and for-profit organizations across the United States. With over 3,500 employees nationwide, Apis Services supports organizations focused on improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Equal Employment Opportunity Advancing Opportunities, Inc., Apis Services, Inc., and their affiliates are proud Equal Opportunity Employers. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Abraxas Youth & Family Services