About the Role
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities living in Individual Residential Alternatives (IRAs). The DSP helps individuals achieve their personal goals, maintain their health and safety, and build independence, dignity, and inclusion in daily life, while fostering a supportive and respectful environment.
Responsibilities
- Ensures the health and safety of individuals at all times.
- Provides appropriate personal care, support, and supervision.
- Follows health care treatment orders and administers medications as directed.
- Collaborates with nurses, medical facilitators, and other healthcare professionals.
- Teaches and reinforces fire, emergency, and safety procedures.
- Supports individuals’ personal growth and independence.
- Assists in the development, implementation, and evaluation of person-centered plans.
- Teaches skills such as personal care, nutrition, money management, domestic tasks, and the use of adaptive/technological devices.
- Encourages participation in social, educational, vocational, and recreational activities.
- Serves as an advocate for the individuals supported, promoting their rights, preferences, and best interests.
- Maintains the residential environment.
- Assists with housekeeping, upkeep, and cleanliness of the home.
- Ensures ramps, walkways, and common areas are clear and safe.
- Reports safety concerns, maintenance needs, or environmental hazards.
- Provides transportation and community support as needed.
- Transports and accompanies individuals to appointments, shopping trips, and recreational outings.
- Maintains agency vehicles, reporting any concerns or maintenance needs promptly.
- Coordinates vehicle use and scheduling with supervisors.
- Maintains accurate documentation, communication, and financial stewardship.
- Documents care, activities, and cash transactions appropriately.
- Maintains communication with families, guardians, and other significant individuals.
- Exercises financial stewardship of Agency resources and those of the individuals supported.
- Ensures compliance, regulatory adherence, and professional accountability.
- Follows all Agency policies, procedures, and applicable state and federal regulations.
- Reports safety, abuse, neglect, or regulatory concerns promptly and appropriately.
- Participates in internal investigations and provides accurate information.
- Completes required Agency and regulatory trainings.
- Demonstrates flexibility, teamwork, and collaboration.
- Works varied schedules, including evenings, overnights, weekends, holidays, and mandated coverage.
- Collaborates effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and other team members.
- Demonstrates effective, professional communication and behavior.
- Completes and submits required paperwork and records in a timely manner.
- Performs other duties as requested or directed by supervisor.
Requirements
- High School Diploma, GED, or DSP certification required.
- Successful completion of Agency orientation and training programs.
- Successful completion of Medication Certification training program.
- NYS Driver’s License with two years of driving experience required.
- Acceptable motor vehicle abstract to meet Agency insurability standards.
- Reliable personal vehicle for business use.
- Heavy work; ability to frequently lift 25 – 50 lbs., and transfer and support individuals with and without help.
- Physical strength to safely respond should a behavioral crisis occur.
- Ability to operate personal and Agency vehicles.
- Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time.
- Exposure to infectious diseases, hygiene issues, food, and other unpleasant odors.
- Able to tolerate atmospheric conditions when performing regular outdoor seasonal activities.
- Ability to operate mechanical devices used by individuals.
Skills
- Personal care
- Mentorship
- Support
- Medication dispensing
- Safety
- Emotional support
- Cleaning
- Documentation
- Communication
- Advocacy
- Teamwork
Location
- Edwardsville (Hammond)
- Canton
- Potsdam
- Massena
- Norwood
- Colton
Work Type
- Full-time
- Part-time
- Per diem
- Evening shift
Experience Level
- Two years of driving experience
Education Level
- High School Diploma
- GED
- DSP certification
Salary/Compensations
- $18.90/hour
Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Term Life/AD&D insurance
- Long-term disability
- Short-term disability
- 401(k)
- Generous time off
- Vacation time
- Personal time
- Sick time
- Paid holidays
About the Company
- Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country provides services within Individual Residential Alternatives (IRAs), which are group homes for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
