The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides person centered supports based on the individual’s needs, preferences and choices.  DSPs perform a wide variety of tasks and activities based on the valued outcomes of each person they work with, and reflecting the specific skills and abilities of each individual.  DSPs encourage, guide and offer training to develop daily living skills, ensuring personal needs are met, promoting active engagement in the community life and ensuring health and safety. DSPs create a positive and enriching program environment for all persons supported. Direct Support Professionals are a vital member of each person’s support team. DSP’s are expected to align their performance with the Code of Ethics and OPWDD DSP Competencies. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: 

• Supports the person’s developmental needs, desires, preferences, and choices. 

• Provides support with the person’s goals as outlined their Staff Action and Life Plan. 

• Escort people supported into the community for both recreational purposes and with healthcare professionals as needed.   

• Operate agency vehicle to support programmatic needs  

• Assist with meal planning and preparation 

• Provide the necessary level of supervision and support for a person’s needs (behavioral, medical developmental, emotional etc.) 

• Safely administer medication under the license of the RN as described in Approved Medication Administration Personnel (AMAP) training (if applicable) 

• Be knowledgeable of all OPWDD, NYSJC, and organizational policies and adhere to them accordingly 

• Ensures that the program environment is clean, safe and offers a positive-home like environment  

• Complete all mandated OPWDD and Rising Ground Trainings 

• Act as a mandated reporter in accordance with OPWDD, NYSJC, and Organizational Policies 

• Notify program RN or appropriate administrator when a concern arises that may impact the health or safety of the people supported. 

• Contemporaneously complete all documentation including, but not limited to: monthly progress notes, daily billing, medical follow-up, clinical data or other communications as assigned 

• Other Duties as assigned based on programmatic need 

Requirements/Qualifications: 

• High School Diploma/GED Required 

• Valid State Driver’s License (NYS preferred) 

• Must be able to work independently and self-directed. 

• Must be able to use technology (for completion of billing data and other assigned tasks) 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.  

• Positive attitude toward the challenges faced by the people that we support. 

• Must be flexible with meeting the needs of the people they support. 

• Availability to meet the schedule of the position as assigned, with occasional flexibility 

• Prior experience with OPWDD or supporting people with disabilities is a plus