Direct Support Professional - The Arc of Northeastern PA

Residential Services (Part-Time Saturday and Sunday 9a-3p)

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Community Home Supervisor, the position is responsible for assisting residential consumers in becoming fully included in the community; enhancing their self image and skills development; and maximizing their independence in life.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• One year of experience working directly with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred.

SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

• A minimum age of 18 is required.
• A valid driver's license is required.
• Ability to work in a drug-free workplace setting is required.
• A criminal background check is required.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF JOB:

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:

• RECOGNIZE that each individual served is to be afforded dignity, respect, and self- determination, as well as the right to be fully included in his/her community with supports where necessary.
• ASSIST in implementing Person-Centered/ Individual Service Plans, including outcomes, prescriptive techniques, medical needs, etc. RECORD individual progress. PROVIDE input pertaining to the development and/or revision of the Individual Service Plans.
• ATTEND to the daily needs (medications administration, personal hygiene, meal preparation, personal attention, etc.) of individuals.
• PROVIDE a safe and adequate home-like environment for individuals. PERFORM domestic duties including light housekeeping, laundry, supply and grocery shopping, etc.
• ASSIST individuals in identifying personal interests and establishing community connections with supports where necessary.
• IMPLEMENT consumer behavior support plans.
• ENABLE consumers to experience a variety of meaningful leisure activities in inclusive community programs. Allow individuals to participate in activities of his/her choice.
• PROVIDE transportation to community activities, job , volunteer, or program option, medical appointments, and places of individual choice.
• ABIDE by agency vehicle policies.

OTHER ELEMENTS:

• ASSIST the Residential Supervisor in obtaining supplies.
• REPORT any "Unusual Incidents" immediately to the Residential Supervisor and/or Program Specialist.
• COMPLETE necessary reports.
• MAINTAIN communications with families and advocates of residential consumers.
• ATTEND and PARTICIPATE in program staff meetings and/or required in/out-service training.
• PROVIDE first aid and/or necessary medical interventions in emergency situations.
• COOPERATE with supervisor in providing supervision and direction to students, trainees, and volunteers.
• WORK overtime in assigned home or any other Arc home when given reasonable notice by Supervisor or Program Specialist

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Individual must be able to meet established physical requirements of job (ie., lifting various weights, providing ambulatory assistance, performing restraintive techniques, performing any necessary CPR/First Aid, etc.)