Direct Support Assistant

Duties Description Office for People With Developmental Disabilities priority is the health and safety of the statewide 128,000 individuals with developmental disabilities receiving agency support. As a Direct Support Assistant, you will help individuals with developmental disabilities lead richer lives. Under supervision, these positions will: Provide supports and services. Advocate, encourage, guide, and teach individuals in expressing personal choice. Ensure community integration. Assist individuals with personal hygiene care, toileting, dining, dressing, meal preparation, lifts and transfers. Help individuals to participate in games and recreational programs. Coach and encourage individuals to develop daily living skills. Provide a clean, safe, and comfortable environment. Work with other staff to carry out care plans and record care plans. Administer medication in accordance with special instructions. Minimum Qualifications Minimum qualifications for this role include: You must have a high school diploma or an equivalency such as a GED or a DSP Certificate from an accredited public or private organization. You must have a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State and be required to maintain a valid driver’s license throughout your employment as a DSA. You must meet physical and agility standards. Benefits and Compensation Benefits and compensation details for this position include: Starting salary reflects the increased hiring salary and geographic pay differential. Future conversion from non‑competitive to permanent competitive status without an exam. Local Bidding Agreements honored for CSEA positions. Preference for OPWDD employees impacted by closures. Mandatory eligibility for full and unconditional participation in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Possible loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program for qualifying employees. Employee savings programs including U.S. Savings Bond and College Savings Plan. Pre‑tax savings programs such as Health Care Spending Account and Dependent Care Advantage Account. Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for assessment and referral services. Life and Disability insurance coverage. Participation in the NY State Deferred Compensation Plan. Paid holidays, vacation, personal leave, sick leave, professional leave. Paid parental leave up to 12 weeks at full pay for qualifying events. Retirement participation in the NYS Employees’ Retirement System (ERS). Professional development and training programs, including tuition assistance and public‑service workshops. Equal Opportunity Statement OPWDD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion. We welcome applicants of diverse backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, races, sexes, gender identities, national origins, ages, languages, veteran’s status, religions, disabilities, sexual orientations, and beliefs. All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr