Personal Care Assistant (PCA)

Job Summary

The Specialized Services Provider delivers individualized, high-impact supports to individuals with intellectual disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) living within the community. Serving as a crucial member of a 24/7 care team, this position ensures the emotional well-being, physical safety, and community integration of high-needs individuals. This role balances direct care, health advocacy, and regulatory compliance to help clients achieve independence and a high quality of life.

Key Responsibilities

1. Direct Care & Community Integration

• Individualized Support: Deliver person-centered care in a respectful, professional manner that honors client choice and aligns with their treatment plan.
• Daily Living & Companionship: Facilitate engaging conversations and activities tailored to the individual's interests while offering guidance, companionship, and emotional support.
• Community Advocacy: Connect the individual to local community resources, support participation in community events, and model appropriate social behaviors.
• Life Skills Coaching: Teach and reinforce essential safety practices within both home and community environments.

2. Health, Wellness & Compliance

• Clinical Collaboration: Monitor the client's emotional and physical well-being and partner with clinical staff to support ongoing mental health needs.
• Medical Oversight: Administer medications accurately, attend medical appointments with clients, and ensure all follow-up care is meticulously executed.
• Transportation & Personal Care: Provide safe transportation to appointments, activities, and community outings. Assist with personal care duties as required.
• Regulatory & Legal Alignment: Implement safety plans for community outings in accordance with Vermont public safety best practices. Ensure strict adherence to Medicaid regulations, court conditions of release, and/or Act 248 orders where applicable.

3. Documentation & Collaboration

• Data Collection: Gather and log behavioral data according to the individual's Individualized Service Agreement (ISA) and behavior support plans.
• Administrative Compliance: Complete and submit accurate daily/weekly timesheets, monthly progress documentation, and expense sheets within agency deadlines.
• Team Participation: Act actively as a collaborative problem-solver in team meetings and care plan discussions while maintaining strict client confidentiality.

Qualifications

Required:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Driver's License with reliable transportation for occasional client transit.
• CPR Certification (Online certification is acceptable).
• Ability to work flexible shifts within a 24/7 care schedule.

Preferred:

• Prior experience in Direct Service, caregiving, or behavioral health.
• Experience supporting individuals diagnosed with intellectual disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook for professional email communication.