Direct Support Professional

SCOPE OF ROLE:

To provide clients with skills for independent living in a safe environment.

II. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide habilitation services to each client as prescribed in that client’s service plans (CFA,
Individual Service plan, Habilitation plan)

• Assist each client, as needed, in skill development in areas such as activities of daily living,
domestic living, recreation, socialization.

• Ensure that each assigned client is well-groomed, including hairstyle, finger and toenail
trimming, good oral and personal hygiene.

• Ensure that each assigned client’s living area is clean and tidy.

• Assist assigned clients, as needed, in selecting clothing by suggesting appropriate attire and
color combinations.

• Ensure assigned clients’ nutritional needs are met according to prescribed diet, and assist with
feeding, as necessary.

• Report immediately any observed/known deficiencies or own inability in providing habilitation
services to clients, as well as all types of abuse, other facility problems, including physical
plant/safety issues, to management.

• Attend and participate in meetings, conferences and training sessions as assigned or
scheduled.

• Carry out all policies and procedures of the agency issued by management in accordance with
OPWDD or other funding agency guidelines.
• With appropriate training and supervision, administer medication to clients as assigned and in
compliance with management, medical and nursing policies, and procedures.

• Serve as a positive role model for clients.

• Ensure all interactions support the core values and mission of the agency.

• Additional responsibilities as deemed necessary and/or appropriate by the Program Manager
and/or designee.

• Provide resident/program support:
o Participate in meetings as assigned including supervisory and service planning meetings.
o Assist in the organization and maintenance of common areas where indicated.
o Participate in a 24/7 crisis response rotation, as indicated.
o Adhere diligently to all life-safety policies and procedures.

Skills Required:

• Interprets relevant information to resolve problems. Effectively balances considerations and
alternatives to make sound decisions.

• Handles unexpected situations by responding effectively to challenges, deadlines, and
emergencies. Copes adequately with stress on the job.

• Provides timely, accurate and clear documentation according to established policies and
procedures.

• Applies time management skills to work effectively within given deadlines. Carries out orders
and directives. Organizes own time and prioritizes workload effectively. Uses resources
wisely.

• Willingness to initiate new ideas. Consistently looks for better ways of doing things.

• Demonstrates effective verbal, written and listening skills.

• Works well as part of a team.

• Can be relied upon to be available as needed; includes attendance and punctuality.

• Responds to consumer needs promptly, accurately and with courtesy and respect. Models
appropriate behavior. Represents the organization in a positive and appropriate manner to
outside resources.

• Supports the missions and values of SUS and draws attention to behavior that undermines
group effectiveness or is inconsistent with core values.

• Maintains confidentiality of consumers and staff. Restrictions information to those who need
to know.

• Maintains positive enthusiasm toward job accountabilities and objectives. Persists with extra
effort and overcomes obstacles to get the job done

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or approved equivalent required.

• Effective written and oral communication skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• One year’s experience providing direct services to developmentally disabled persons
preferred.

• AMAP certified, SCIP-R trained, CPR & First Aid Trained
o

Note:

S:

US will provide on-the-job training for such certifications.

• Basic computer skills (e.g. MS Office suite and Windows)

S:

US IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Join a team of employees who cares about the wellbeing of others. We’re proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and development. From health and wellness…