Direct Support Professional - Howard Beach, Queens NY

Location: Howard Beach, Queens NY
Pay Rate: $21.25/hr.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (40hrs) + 1hr unpaid Lunch
No Weekends! Must have a valid driver's license

Direct Support Professionals perform a wide variety of person centered supports and services with a strong emphasis on personal choice to individuals with developmental disabilities. The Direct Support Professional is responsible for providing guidance, training, support and encouragement to people receiving services to promote enriched lives, further independence and enhance community integration.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties and responsibilities of the Direct Support Professional include, but are not limited to the following:

• Provide services to persons served according to their written Staff Action Plan and individual Safeguards.
• Document Habilitation services contemporaneously in accordance with the Agency, OPWDD, Medicaid and other requirements.
• Provide input into the development and implementation of the Staff Action Plan Habilitation Plan in accordance with the Life Plan as developed by each person receiving services, family, advocate and Care Coordinator.
• Monitor the safety and welfare of people served, take corrective actions as necessary and immediately notify supervisor of concerns.
• Provide required level of supervision as stated in the Staff Action Plan and individual Safeguards.
• Assist and support people served to build positive relationships in their community.
• Provide needed support and encouragement for people served to advocate for their needs and rights.
• Provide training and encouragement to people served to ensure good personal health care as needed.
• Communicate health care concerns to supervisor or administrator as necessary.
• Communicate professionally with persons receiving services, families, team members and the community.
• Complete all required paperwork and documentation on a daily basis, as needed, including checklists, progress notes, injury/fall reports, seizure reports, attendance records etc. Complete Monthly Summary Notes on a timely basis as required.
• Maintain all aspects of DSP Driver responsibilities including but not limited to:
  • Provide transportation to people served focusing on safety, accountability, and good behavior.
  • Follow the Transportation protocol including vehicle safety check. Ensure attendance checks are done each time individuals board and vacate the vehicle.
  • Maintain certifications and driving authorization.
• Encourage community integration with an emphasis on inclusion, access, community awareness and safety.

New York Families for Autistic Children Job Description

• Attend staff meetings and participate in supervision for professional growth and development.
• Complete all required initial and annual training as well as ongoing training to increase knowledge.
• Conduct fire drills and document results in accordance with supervisor's instructions.
• Required to work overtime to ensure proper adherence to staffing ratios.
• Adhere to and implement the NADSP Code of Ethics, Justice Center Code of Conduct and NYS DSP Core Competencies
• Adhere to all Agency and Program Policies and Procedures, including HIPAA, Confidentiality and implementing the Corporate Compliance Plan and related policies and procedures.
• Other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES:

• Ability to instruct others on vocational or daily living skills.
• Actively listen and be able to communicate, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Good interpersonal skills and commitment to assisting individuals with disabilities.
• Maintain composure under pressure.
• Ability to speak, read and write in English.
• Serve as a role model and represent the agency positively in the community.
• Ability to use a computer or mobile device to access email and required software
• Ability to self-initiate projects and function autonomously as a leader when needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to read, write, speak and understand English.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Strong interpersonal, listening, communication and motivational skills.
• Good analytical ability with problem-solving and follow up.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in the use of a personal computer and appropriate software and E-Mail system.
• Valid driver's license and the ability to operate an agency vehicle if needed.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED
• Possess and maintain a valid NYS Driver License
• Prior experience working with I/DD population preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to perform the essential physical functions of the job including but not limited to the ability to stoop, lift, kneel, push, pull, reach, stand, walk, hear, listen and communicate appropriately

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable
New York Families for Autistic Children Job Description individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Access: Supports For Living & NYFAC are an EEO employer

An Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and Veterans