Direct Support Professional

Job Description

Job Description

The Arc of Macomb County is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community service organization that exists to serve individuals with developmental disabilities.  

The Arc is dedicated to securing for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to choose where and how they learn, live, and work throughout their lifetimes in the community we share.

The Arc of Macomb works with other private and public entities in a team effort to help individuals with developmental disabilities exercise their independence and make their own choices.    

The Direct Service Professional will work in some or all of the Arc of Macomb’s Vocational Rehabilitation, Skill Building, and Community Living Support programs.  Which program(s) the Direct Service Professional works in will depend on which program(s) are the best fit for the worker and the clients.  In all roles, the Direct Service Professional will assist clients with activities of daily living by prompting, reminding, and guiding the client. The Direct Service Professional will follow the clients’ Plans of Service or other guiding plans.  

The Direct Service Professional will be compassionate, patient, professional, and organized, with a knack for interpersonal skills and developing trust. The Direct Service Professional will believe in the Arc of Macomb’s mission and will demonstrate exceptional drive to further clients’ independence and freedoms.   The Direct Service Professional will treat all co-workers, members, clients, and stakeholders with dignity, respect, and kindness.  

Typical activities may include assisting with scheduling appointments, meal preparation, basic cleaning, shopping, running errands, developing soft skills, learning and practicing safety skills, learning coping strategies, improving communication skills, and learning universal job skills.  Transportation may be incidental to some of the activities, and thus a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current insurance are required.  

Objectives of this Role

• Follow the clients’ Plans of Service or other relevant plans
• Assist clients with Activities of Daily Living, Functional Activities of Daily Living, and Vocational Skills
• Work with other professionals to provide comprehensive service to clients
• Prepare daily service notes and maintain other relevant records when necessary
• Respond to telephone calls, emails, and text messages promptly

Skills and Qualifications

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills, including the ability to be clear, direct, and honest without being rude or overbearing

• Ability to mediate situations, redirect, and stay on task   

• Consistent attention to detail
• Strong organizational skills
• Adept at managing tasks, handling emergencies, and balancing priorities
• A professional attitude
• Ability and desire to work as part of a team and to treat others with kindness and compassion
• Consistent access to reliable transportation with insurance and must be able to drive a full-sized van
• Familiarity with Community Mental Health or Michigan Rehabilitation Systems a plus

This position reports to the Community Services Director.  The Direct Service Professional will also work closely with other Coordinators and Directors as part of the team to provide service to all clients.  This position may require some nights and weekends, as emergencies arise.  This position can expect to spend 20% - 95% of the time out of the office, depending on the program(s) the employee works in.  

PT or FT available.

FT benefits available after 90 days: Health, dental and life insurance.