Direct Support Professional (65538)

Direct Support Professional

Volunteers of America Western Washington is a non-profit organization operating in Western Washington for over 125 years. Our Christian roots drive us to put our faith into action for the benefit of every member of the community. We celebrate our unique perspectives and lived experiences that allow us to better serve and uplift our community – and each other. Volunteers of America Western Washington is officially a designated CARE trauma informed organization.

Salary Range $21.50 - $23.76 Hourly Position Type Full-Time/Part-Time Education Level High School

General Function

Direct Support Professionals (DSP) work directly with adults with developmental disabilities in a residential setting and assist clients with activities of daily living. DSPs provide support and training to the program participants by assisting them in the core service areas of health and safety, personal power and choice, positive recognition by self and others, community integration, constructive relationships, and building skill competence.

Responsibilities

Client Support

• Support clients to help achieve their goals and objectives, collect and record data in accordance with department guidelines.
• Instruct and support clients in daily living skills, ensure basic health and hygiene needs are met, support with meal preparation, leisure activities, community living and integration skills, assist clients in caring for their pets (where applicable), and ensure all related tasks are being completed daily.
• Observe and monitor clients and document their activities and any incidents or difficulties on appropriate forms per program guidelines and client plans. Report any changes to appropriate personnel and document it in client records accordingly.
• Support clients by providing transportation to access the community.
• May be required to work alone with clients who may exhibit challenging or aggressive behavior. With the training provided, DSPs will learn how to respond to such behavior and deescalate situations.
• Accompany clients to recreational activities, doctor appointments, IISP goal outings or work.
• Assist clients with money skills and purchases/shopping.
• Support clients with medications per their individual plans. Ensure all delegated tasks are followed per RND instructions and follow all doctors' orders. Report any problems or difficulties with medications or treatments to the supervisor immediately.
• Peri-care and assistance with personal grooming as needed.

Training

• Complete 75 Hour LTC Worker Training and remain in compliance with Continuing Education requirements annually.
• Attend regular state and agency mandated trainings as scheduled and stay current on all trainings.
• Prior to driving clients, must attend agency driver training.
• Attend and participate in monthly staff meetings.

Communication

• Maintain excellent communication with other staff and Program Manager regarding all aspects of client care, household operations, personnel, and VOA/DS business.
• Appropriately maintain professional caring relationships with the clients while preserving healthy professional boundaries.
• Perform other duties as necessary or assigned.

Qualifications

Must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED. Must be able to read and understand program requirements and perform required documentation. Required to obtain an NAR, CNA, or HCA credential within 120 days of employment. Must attend all scheduled training and complete LTC certification within 120 days of employment. Washington State driver's license and the ability to transport clients in an agency provided vehicle. Must have and maintain an acceptable background check record per WAC 388-101D-0070 guidelines. Must possess basic computer and internet skills. Use a smartphone to clock in and out.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• While performing the duties of this job, DSP is frequently required to read, speak, stand, walk, and sit.
• Must be able to fulfill all documentation requirements, including documenting on the computer.
• May be required to stand for long periods of time.
• Required to physically assist some clients when transferring, bathing, toileting, and ambulating. Staff may need to physically lift or steady clients using approved methods.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Staff may be required to consent to drug or alcohol testing in the case of an automobile accident or reasonable suspicion.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all employment-related decisions are made without consideration of individuals' race, sex, age, national origin, disability status or any other protected characteristic.