Direct Support Professional

Genesis Health Clubs; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

Flexible schedule

Opportunity for advancement

Job summary

Genesis Health Clubs in Lake Charles, Louisiana is looking for a Direct Support Professional to ensure a healthy and therapeutic environment for individuals with disabilities. This part-time role involves administering medication, assisting with daily living activities, and participating in care plans.

The ideal candidate will have effective communication skills and be able to physically assist individuals as required. A valid driver's license is preferred. Training and development opportunities will be provided.

Qualifications

• Must effectively read, write, and communicate in English.
• Valid driver's license preferred.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Responsibilities

• Ensure health and welfare of individuals served.
• Assist individuals with medication and treatment plans.
• Accompany individuals to appointments as needed.

Skills

Effective communication

Basic computer skills

Ability to assist physically

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Direct Support Professional
Reports To: Home Director I & II
Classification: Part-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Created: November 29, 2013

Job Summary

Responsible for maintaining a healthy, safe, and therapeutic environment for individuals served and ensuring follow through on their individual care plans. Administer medication as allowed by appropriate state medication administration guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the health and welfare of the individuals served.
• Assist individuals served with medication and treatment plans; count, dispense, and record appropriate medications as outlined in state guidelines.
• Train individuals in the care and cleaning of their living area by modeling simple tasks such as making a bed, cleaning the floor, and performing basic housekeeping tasks.
• Clean the living area and assist with laundry.
• Report general maintenance needs of the living area or home unit.
• Assist with money management, including budgeting, banking, and shopping.
• Assist with daily living activities such as meal preparation, reading, phone usage, community services (e.g., post office, mass transportation), housekeeping, clothing care, self‑care, and personal hygiene.
• Participate in the development and implementation of active treatment, nutritional, behavioral, and physical support plans.
• Accompany and transport individuals to medical/dental appointments, church services, recreation areas, work, and shopping as requested.
• Make food and non‑food purchases when required.
• Prepare meals.
• Ensure the maintenance of the home and grounds is performed as requested.
• Complete all required documentation (e.g., daily notes, incident reports, medical information such as seizures, vital signs, medication errors) following applicable state agency and Evergreen policies.
• Implement behavioral and other programs as trained and requested.
• Assist individuals with their goals outlined in their plan of care documents.
• Identify potential behavior triggers and defuse or redirect them to ensure safety and well‑being.
• Provide transportation via company or personal vehicle when requested.
• Report accidents, incidents, and suspected cases of abuse or neglect per Evergreen policies.
• Provide instruction to individuals involved in vocational activities associated with work opportunities.

Qualifications

• Effectively read, write, and communicate verbally in English; must be able to understand instructions, perform record‑keeping, and write reports.
• Valid driver’s license meeting Evergreen insurance and liability coverage requirements is preferred.
• Meet and maintain all requirements of applicable state agencies, including good standing with the state abuse and neglect registry.
• Submit to and pass a drug screen and criminal background check.
• Utilize basic computer skills (e.g., data entry, timesheet approval).
• Successfully complete state‑required medication administration certification and maintain up‑to‑date training.
• Must be at least 18 years of age (non‑driver) or 21 years of age (driver).

Physical Requirements

• Constantly move around to coordinate work.
• Regularly lift and position objects weighing up to 50 pounds while assisting individuals in home or job sites.
• Regularly assist individuals physically by lifting and positioning them as appropriate.
• Remain constantly alert and aware of the needs of individuals served.
• Occasional exposure to viruses and infectious conditions.

Benefits

• Company parties
• Employee discounts
• Flexible schedule
• Opportunity for advancement
• Training & development
• Wellness resources

Other Requirements

Represent Evergreen in public in a manner that reflects credibility and professionalism of the organization.

Desire to work with people with disabilities and enhance their quality of life.

Function successfully in stressful situations.

Demonstrate high moral standards as a positive role model for individuals served.

Complete all orientation and on‑the‑job training before starting work.

Work assigned shifts as required by management.

Attend all training classes as required.

Other characteristics of a successful DSP include patience, composure, effective communication, dependability, interpersonal skills, awareness and attention to detail, and advocacy.

Employment Variables

• Maintain a good driving record and reliable transportation.
• Pass a drug screen and criminal background check.
• Work a flexible schedule, including nights, days, and weekends.

Working Environment

• May be required to work in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings.