Direct Support Professional - DSP 1

Direct Support Professional

YAI supports people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving the fullest lives possible by creating new opportunities for living, loving, working and learning. YAI is a network of agencies with programs that empower and enhance the lives of thousands of people we support and their families. YAI promotes a person-centered approach by creating supports that cater to the specific needs of each person. Join our dynamic team teaching daily and independent living skills, providing individual and group counseling, and promoting community integration. The ideal candidate will have enthusiasm for working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and a willingness to help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as assisting with showering, toileting, grooming, laundry and housekeeping as necessary. Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work directly with people in their home, work, and daily life in varying capacities. Typically, a DSP 1 works in one region.

Location: Pleasantville, NY

Schedule: Full-Time, Monday- Friday 7:00 am- 3:00 pm

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintaining professionalism and punctuality
• Taking ownership/accountability
• Being flexible: job responsibilities may change based on needs
• Adhering to policies, procedures and regulations
• Using effective communication skills & time management skills
• Being a member of a highly effective team (teamwork within the circle of support)
• Ensuring maintenance upkeep and safety based on facility/program structure
• Completing mandatory trainings based on the program and position (AMAP, CPR/First Aid, SCIP-R, Defensive Driving, etc.), as well as applying skills
• Meeting and demonstrating OPWDD Core Competencies
• Ensuring health, wellness and safety
• Ensuring appropriate supervision of the people we support
• Understanding when to contact an administrator for support
• Demonstrating a willingness to assist people with ADLs
• Transporting and escorting people we support on recreational activities, medical appointment, home visits, etc.
• Building positive relationships
• Using person first language
• Maintaining a therapeutic environment through a variety of methods: Personal Outcome Measures, Person Centered Thinking, Informed Decision Making
• Ensuring person centered plans are implemented
• Completing documentation to ensure compliance and billing
• Using foundational teaching skills (EMOE, Task analysis, essential skills, supports and modifications, etc.)
• Assisting people with making purchases, as well as safeguard personal allowance funds and any additional funds provided
• Managing crisis

Education and Experience:

• A high school diploma or GED is preferred; some college is a plus
• Work or life experience with intellectual/developmental disabilities is a plus
• Ability to support people with intellectual/developmental disabilities
• Basic written and verbal communication
• Basic computer knowledge
• Valid NY state driver's license may be required depending upon the position
• Tuberculosis test mandatory for most positions

Additional Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Willingness to take initiative

Compensation: $16.78/hour- $18.31/hour (Based on experience)

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or status as a Vietnam or disabled veteran. YAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.