Direct Support Professional - ComHab; Nassau​/Suffolk

Job Description

Job Description:

POSITION SUMMARY The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is tasked with delivering direct care, supervision, and individualized support to individuals within residential, day program, or in-home environments. The DSP is responsible for upholding the health, safety, dignity, and overall well-being of these individuals, adhering to agency policies and procedures, individual program plans, and relevant federal and state regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, protocols for Incident Reporting, Protection of Individual Rights, Safety, and the Code of Conduct.

The DSP is responsible for delivering services as stipulated in each individual’s Life Plan (LP), Staff Action Plan (SAP), Plan of Nursing Services (PONS), Behavior Support Plan, Level of Supervision (LOS), and other pertinent safety protocols. Service provision must foster independence, self-determination, community integration, and enriching life experiences, all while upholding individual rights and adhering to regulatory standards. As a mandated reporter under New York State law, the DSP is obligated to promptly report any suspected instances of abuse, neglect, mistreatment, or significant incidents, in compliance with OPWDD and Justice Center regulations.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of person-centered service delivery principles and best practices in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Working knowledge of Life Plan (LP), Behavior Support Plans (BSP), and medical and clinical directives, including the ability to interpret and apply written plans, goals, and intervention strategies. Knowledge of applicable federal and state regulations governing health, safety, individual rights, mandated reporting, incident reporting, and confidentiality (including HIPAA compliance).

Demonstrated ability to observe, assess, and report changes in an individual’s physical, behavioral, or emotional status. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce accurate, objective, and timely documentation utilizing electronic health record systems. Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain reliability and professionalism, and respond effectively in both routine and emergency situations. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.

Physical capability to safely perform essential job functions, including assisting with activities of daily living, mobility support, and implementation of trained crisis intervention techniques..

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attend and successfully complete all required trainings, demonstrating competence in each area through observed performance, testing, or practical application as appropriate.
• Apply learned skills and knowledge consistently in daily work, ensuring compliance with agency policies, protocols, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in staff meetings, team briefings, and professional development activities to stay informed of updates, share information, and support collaborative care.

PERSON CENTERED SUPPORT

• Provide individualized supports in accordance with each person’s assessed strengths, preferences, needs, and identified outcomes.
• Teach, model, and assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal hygiene, bathing, toileting, oral care, grooming, dressing, meal preparation, feeding, housekeeping, laundry, budgeting, medication administration (as authorized), and safe use of community transportation.
• Implement strategies that build independence, skill acquisition and functional competency…