Direct Support Professional / PCA / HHA

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.

YAI is a network of agencies offering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities a comprehensive range of services across all ages. YAI empowers people with disabilities to reach their goals every day. Our enthusiastic staff of over 4,000 professionals believes that everyone has a fundamental right to live, love, work, and learn. If you share our vision and want to help support people to live the fullest lives possible, apply to this position.

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

Compensation: $16.50-$18.00 hourly

Additional knowledge, skills and abilities:

Interpersonal and problem-solving skills

Willing to take initiative

CNA, HHA, PCA experience is a plus

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.

YAI