Direct Support Professional

Benefits:

Mileage Reimbursement

Paid Orientation

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Paid time off

Dental insurance

Training & development

Vision insurance

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Greater Hearts Human Services is seeking a Direct Support Professionals for our Chester County Pennsylvania Area. The Direct Support Professionals will assist clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism in a home/residence with activities of daily living, individual programming implementation, routine operation of the home/residence management so clients/ can live a self-directed life. The Direct Support Professional will work with a guiding Team Lead in the home/residence and report to a Program Manager.

KEY FUNCTIONS: Home/Residential:

Works independently or as part of a team in home/residential setting.

Contributes to the development and implementation of the client’s individual support plan.

Ensures client’s health, safety, and welfare by providing supervision as determined in their individual support plan by implementing individual program plans designed to enhance the individual’s cognitive, emotional, independent, physical, and social living skills.

Assists clients' development of appropriate behavioral, housekeeping, hygiene, money management, social and other skills to reach their highest level of development.

Encourages clients to follow all dietary guidelines as recommended by medical professionals.

Provides support and assistance to clients by arranging medical care and following health care recommendations.

Implements and maintains home/residence/worksite that is clean, comfortable, and free of clutter and hazards.

Collaborates and cooperates with involved agencies, family members, and other service providers by participating in meetings and providing relevant information.

Accompanies clients into the community to provide assistance and support while maintaining sensitivity to client dignity and rights.

Uses community resources to promote community independence, integration, and interdependence.

Transports clients in company and/or personal vehicle for community outings or scheduled appointments.

Provides coverage in emergency situations.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Regulation Compliance:

Adheres to Department of Human Services Regulatory requirements by completing required trainings and associated documentation by stated deadlines.

Administers medication and treatment as permitted under regulations.

Completes and updates all daily, weekly, and monthly administrative paperwork, casework notes, fiscal reports, logs, medical records, other records, and reports.

Conducts fire drills and manages emergency situations during assigned work block.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Ability to learn the regulations pertaining to job assignments, pass the Department of Human Services Medication Administration Course, administer medications in compliance with regulations, maintain confidential information in accordance with State Laws, and obtain any required clearances.

Ability to create and foster a home environment that allows for real choices, respect, and the development of relationships that are free from abuse, coercion, neglect, or threats.

Ability to develop an understanding of and relate to clients with disabilities including the observation and assessment of client needs.

Ability to comprehend verbal instructions, employ good listening skills, use clear and understandable verbal skills, and use clear, concise, legible, and logical writing skills.

Ability to follow company policies including but not limited to administering medications and maintaining confidentiality as well as applying the principles of “Everyday Lives” and Self Determination.

Ability to learn how to identify symptoms associated with mental health diagnoses and apply intervention when symptoms occur and implement positive methods to modify behavior.

Ability to learn how to operate all equipment (i.e., feeding pumps, mechanical lifts, etc.) to meet the needs of clients and perform first aid and CPR.

Ability to organize and prioritize multi-task work assignments, read and comprehend instructions, medical orders, and prescriptions written in English.

Ability to provide coverage in emergency situations.

Ability to remain awake during all work hours with the exception of designated sleep time.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Knowledge of acceptable interpersonal, social, and work behavior.

Knowledge of basic math.

Knowledge of computers and familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook and the ability to learn other software programs when required.

High School Diploma, or GED, or two years of experience as a DSP.

Must have current and valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License, a good driving record, access to a reliable vehicle to attend meetings, trainings or transport individuals to appointments, and current vehicle insurance coverage.

CONTINUING EDUCATION: (sponsored or paid for by employer):

Minimum of 24 Educational Credit Hours per year

ODP under 6400 Regulations

Documenting and Reporting Skills