Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Day Programs

Job Description

Job Description

Here at The Arc Gloucester , we offer the unique opportunity to combine your professional experience with your passion to help individuals with intellectual or development disabilities

For more than 67 years The Arc Gloucester has provided innovative programs and services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  We have made a difference in the lives of many people and are very proud of that. But it's the individuals we service who bring our programs to life with their creativity, excitement, humor, talent, and so much more! Every day is an opportunity to learn something new at The Arc Gloucester!

DSPs provide direct care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities served by The Arc Gloucester and help these individuals reach their fullest potential in accordance with their NJISP’s by creating a nurturing environment and maintaining programmatic needs in compliance.  

Position : Non-exempt.  Monday - Friday, daytime.  Locations throughout Gloucester County.   

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Provide direct care to individuals and empower them to reach their fullest potential in accordance with their NJISPs
• Assist with performing activities of daily living (ADLs) e.g. dress, bath, and groom self-using proper body mechanics, adaptive equipment
• Maintain daily electronic and/or written records of billable services performed and other critical information
• Ensure the participants supervision level, as outlined in their NJISP, is maintained at all times
• Organize and manage program area activities of the individual’s interest level, at the individual’s pace
• Organize, implement, and participate in recreational activities inside or outside of the program at the choice of and with the individual(s)
• Accompany individuals served outside the program, as a guide, companion and aide e.g. shopping, religious activities, etc.
• Transport participants in a safe lawful manner, which may include picking up or dropping off individuals served to their place of residence or other community locations, using an Agency vehicle
• Assist with transferring of individuals
• Administer prescribed medications
• Assist with purchasing, preparing, and serving food while following specialized prescribed diets
• Regularly evaluate participants’ progress using established guidelines
• Conduct required safety drills as directed 
• Professionally and effectively communicate required information to staff, guardians, families, medical personnel, support coordinator etc
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and agency trainings as scheduled
• Prepare and maintain substitute back up plans for sick time and vacation time
• Maintain the physical appearance and cleanliness of the center that meets DHS’s and/or other funding sources requirements
• Provide a supportive environment for the individual by maintaining a clean, positive, healthy, and stimulating environment while ensuring adequate supervision at all times
• Primary department, work location and schedule may vary 
• Maintain confidentiality 
• Comply with the DDD Program Manual, The Arc Gloucester Policies and Procedures Manual and applicable state, local and federal regulations
• Must cooperate and participate in reviews, investigations, and inspections, including but not limited to DHS Licensing and DHS staff.  
• Occasional management responsibilities, including assisting with trainings, planning, workflow, and problem solving
• Complete and maintain required training 
• Additional responsibilities as required

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or general education degree (GED), and must be 18 years of age or older
• Must have a current driver’s license with 5 points or less, and deemed acceptable to drive by The Arc Gloucester’s liability insurance company
• Maintain active CPR/First Aide certification 
• Proficient in basic computer, math, reading comprehension and verbal and written communication skills
• Knowledge or experience with supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred
• Successfully pass initial & ongoing State/Federal Criminal Background checks, CARI checks, Central Registry checks & drug screens

Physical Requirements:

While performing the essential functions of this position, the following are required, with or without reasonable accommodation: 

• Ability to sit, drive, stand, and walk for extended periods of time
• Ability to operate computers, phones, and other relevant technology
• Communicate in person, over the phone, and using other technologies
• Physical duties, including but not limited to carrying, driving, general lifting (at least 25 lbs., occasionally up to 50 lbs.), assisting with transferring and lifting of individuals, pushing and pulling (resistance of at least 25 lbs.), bending, twisting, squatting, cleaning, and climbing stairs