The Direct Support Professional – Community Habilitation/Respite is responsible to implement and monitor individualized habilitation plans, in compliance with state, federal and Agency regulations and operating standards. The DSP works directly with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) providing habilitative (skill building) and behavioral support. The DSP will work to increase skill level and decrease challenging behaviors of individuals with autism by addressing goals outlined in their individual goal plan. The DSP will provide services within the person’s home and in their community in order to promote independence, inclusion and quality of life.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Activities include but are not limited to the following:

• Implement, document, and/or summarize programming as indicated in the individuals Person Centered Plan.
• Respond to medical emergencies and log any/all incidents that may occur during sleeping hours.
• Attend to personal, self-care and other program needs that the individuals cannot independently accomplish.
• Oversee the safety and well-being of the individuals.
• Advise nursing staff regarding the individuals’ medical and dietary concerns, dispense medication, if certified.
• Participate in activities as part of the treatment team that may include meetings, trainings and committees.
• Transport and accompany residences as requires for appointments and community activities.
• Assist in the daily housekeeping and laundry routine, report house damage and complete work orders; clean wheelchairs, clean and gas-up vans, as needed.
• Maintain documentation as required.
• Ensure that all doors have been locked during overnight hours;
• Ensure an appropriate temperature in the house for sleeping by adjusting the thermostat and/or closing windows.
• Conduct evacuation drills as assigned and complete documentation required.
• Establish a work environment that creates positive communication between supervisors and employees and assimilates new employees to the Center’s culture, values and mission.
• Ensure compliance with all pertinent government and agency regulations and operating standards.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Up to 1 year of experience preferred
• This position has regular and substantial unsupervised or unrestricted physical contact with individuals receiving services, therefore, is required to be fingerprinted for a criminal history record check under OPWDD (Office for People with Developmental Disabilities).
• Must have a valid New York State Driver’s License. and transportation for your use during work hours.
• Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances are warranted.
• Ability to meet physical and mental requirements.

REQUIRED ABILITIES

• Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Regularly attend scheduled shifts and meetings, being punctual.
• Exercise tact, discretion and judgment in working with a variety of people.

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.