Direct Support Professional – Community Day Services - ComWell
Job Title : Direct Support Professional – Community Day Services
Department : Developmental Disabilities
Reports to : DD Site Manager
Purpose of Position : In keeping with the Mission/Vision/Values of ComWell, a Direct Support Professional works directly with individuals helping them achieve greater independence in daily activities, improved healthcare and increased community integration.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities :
1. ComWell expects all staff to have a strong desire to provide an excellent customer experience; to comply with the rules and regulations of those organizations to which we are accountable; to have high ethical and professional standards of conduct; must possess the flexibility to work with clients at various stages in their personal growth; and to have an attitude of wanting to continuously improve their own performance as well as that of ComWell. This also includes consistently returning phone calls and e-mails within 24 hours and updating voicemail/out of office e-mail, as well as consistently using pleasant tone and having a helpful attitude.
2. Shows consideration for others, works cooperatively with any coworker; provides constructive feedback without undue criticism of others; displays appreciation of differences in approaches, personalities, and viewpoints of others. Works professionally, respectfully, positively and cooperatively within a team-based framework to promote ComWell’s commitment to client personal growth.
3. Supports the strategic goals and mission/vision/values of ComWell at all times when interacting with clients, co-workers and professionals from other organizations and presents a positive and professional demeanor.
4. Treats all clients and colleagues with dignity and respect, regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender, or other legally protected status.
5. Completes job requirements with independent action and resourcefulness. Organizes time, effort, and use of resources to achieve desired outcomes. Takes initiative to prevent and resolve problems and offers recommendations for improving services and transforming ComWell into an organization that embraces excellent customer experience.
6. Have a basic understanding of the impact trauma has on a person’s life. Be aware of the signs, symptoms and special needs a trauma survivor may have.
7. Have an awareness of and commitment to self-care practices that prevent or lessen the impact of secondary traumatization with staff and self.
8. Participate in and recognize role in Performance and Quality Improvement (PQI) initiatives. Have general awareness on the importance of quality improvement throughout the organization. Identify opportunities for improvement through data, observation of operations or consultation with staff, residents, families or other stakeholders. Identification and input into opportunities for improvement is strongly encouraged.
9. Assist in the implementation of Client Centered plans for all assigned clients following the identification of individual’s strengths, needs, and goals.
10. Ensures accurate documentation of outcomes of goals.
11. Assist with basic personal hygiene (such as tooth-brushing, toileting, bathing, and clothing), grooming, feeding, ambulation, and health care related tasks.
12. Assist in the monitoring of the overall functioning of each assigned client and communicating any changes in the level of functioning and or medical condition of clients to the appropriate staff.
13. Assist in the development and implementation of behavior plans, completion of appropriate documentation (tracking sheets, behavior monitoring forms, and shift notes). Assists in crisis situations as needed.
14. Assist in the development and facilitation of classroom plans in order to help clients achieve their identified goals. Classroom plans may include, but are not limited to: educational instruction to clients in the areas of daily living skills, social and recreational skills, money management, employment, and health and medication management.
15. Will provide input in the development and creation of opportunities for individuals to have increased interaction with members of the community.
16. Acts as an advocate for individuals and assist individuals in self-advocacy regard to community relations and the betterment of their lives.
17. Drives agency vehicle and provides transportation for individuals in the program to and from the community day services program, community integration activities, and to off-site employment.
18. Perform related or other duties as assigned by manager.
19. Maintain compliance with all ComWell policies and procedures.
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements :
1. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customers.
2. Computer skills (MS Office – Word, Excel and Outlook).
3. Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, while maintaining a positive attitude and providing exemplary customer service.
4. Ability to work independently and to carry out assignments to completion within parameters of instructions given, prescribed routines, and standard accepted practices.
5. Proof of 8th grade education required, High school diploma or GED preferred, DSP certification within 120 days of hire.
6. Valid driver’s license, able to pass a DOT physical.
Physical Requirements :
1. Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
2. Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
3. Must be able to lift and or move, push and or pull up to 50 lbs. or more, able to move frequently, bend kneel, crouch and or stoop.
