Home Support Specialist Asst.

Role and Responsibilities : The Home Support Specialist Assistant (HSSA) provides direct support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in community-based residential settings. This position is intended for employees who are qualified to provide direct support services but may not currently meet all qualifications required of a Home Support Specialist. The position may be utilized for newly hired employees, employees working toward full qualifications, or employees who are temporarily or permanently unable to perform certain essential functions such as participant transportation or medication administration. Employees assigned to this position provide direct support services within the scope of their qualifications and assigned responsibilities.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide person-centered support that promotes independence, choice, dignity, and community inclusion.

• Assist participants with activities of daily living, including personal care, hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration-preferred, and household tasks as needed.

• Implement individual service plans, behavior support strategies, and health-related recommendations.

• Support participants in developing daily living, social, recreational, vocational, and community integration skills.

• Accompany participants to community activities, employment, medical appointments, and other identified destinations.

• Accurately document services provided, participant progress, incidents, and other required records in accordance with agency policies and regulatory requirements.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive living environment.

• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, trainings, and staff meetings as required.

• Respond appropriately to emergencies, behavioral crises, and health-related situations utilizing approved agency procedures.

• Foster positive relationships with participants, families, guardians, coworkers, and community partners.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Education Requirements:

Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Rehabilitation, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field preferred.

Experience: Previous experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health needs, or other vulnerable populations preferred. Direct support, caregiving, healthcare, educational, or human services experience preferred.

Licensure & Transportation:

• Valid Illinois Driver's License required. (Preferred, depending on position assignment)

• Proof of current automobile insurance in accordance with state law. (Preferred, depending on position assignment)

• Reliable personal vehicle required. (Preferred, depending on position assignment)

• Ability and willingness to transport participants as part of job responsibilities. (Preferred, depending on position assignment)

• Ability to obtain and maintain required agency certifications, including:

• CPR/First Aid

• Medication Administration (Preferred, depending on position assignment)

• Defensive Driving (Preferred, depending on position assignment)

• Behavior Management Training

Position Requirement:

Certain Home Support Specialist Assistant positions may not require participant transportation or medication administration. An employee may be hired or assigned to this position without meeting one of these qualifications; however, both qualifications may not be waived simultaneously. Employees must be able to perform at least one of the following essential functions:

• Transport participants; or Administer medications.

• Preferred Skills :
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and records.
• Commitment to person-centered supports and community inclusion.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer proficiency, including electronic documentation systems.