Direct Support Professional (Caregiver) - Weekend Shift

Friends of Children with Special Needs; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) & matching

Paid Sick Leave

Sign on Bonus

Referral Bonus Program

Job summary

A community support organization in California seeks dedicated staff to provide personal care and support for individuals with developmental disabilities during long weekend shifts. Responsibilities include facilitating independence through training, documentation, and community engagement activities. Ideal candidates exhibit strong communication skills, creativity, and flexibility to handle diverse needs. Also, a valid driver's license and a clean record are required. Join us to uplift and enhance the lives of participants in our programs.

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience with individuals with developmental disabilities or strong enthusiasm to learn.
• Effective in communication (oral and written) in English.
• Proficient in electronic device usage for documentation.

Responsibilities

• Provide personal care assistance and training.
• Conduct engagement activities while supervising participants.
• Observe and communicate health needs to supervisors.
• Document service logs accurately.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Behavioral management skills

Creative problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Ability to multitask

Education

High school diploma or higher

Tools

Microsoft Office

Electronic documentation systems

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

1. To work a 24-hour shift (or 48-hour shift) on weekends (from Friday night to Sunday night) or holidays. The shifts include AWAKE and SLEEP hours (under different pay rates).
2. To provide personal care assistance, supervision and support at participant’s residence and community integrated activities to maximize the participant’s success in their living arrangements.
3. To conduct personalized assistance and training to enhance the participant’s health, independence, and overall life skills.
4. To plan and implement Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) enriching activities that promote independence and community integration, requiring creativity and engagement during extended shifts.
5. To transport participants for essential living functions and community engagement, while also promoting opportunities for enrichment and recreation during long weekend shifts.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Electronically clock in and out, and document Daily Service Logs.
• Provide personal care assistance, training, and support to participants to maximize living skills, independence, optimal health, emotional stability, and community integration.
• Supervise and assist with personal care tasks (bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting); assist with household maintenance, healthy meal preparation, health monitoring, and medication management.
• Observe and communicate proactively with supervisors about the participant's physical health, well-being, needs and incidents.
• Develop and implement enrichment activities tailored to participant’s interests, skills, and needs, especially during weekend shifts, ensuring engagement and meaningful participation.
• Explore resources and organize community outings. Transport participants to appointments, leisure activities, grocery shopping, and community outings.
• Engage participants in recreational, community-based, and life skills activities, ensuring continuous involvement throughout the shift.
• Offer emotional support, companionship, and conversations to promote well‑being.
• Implement positive behavioral support strategies and interventions during all activities.
• Assist participants with self‑administering prescribed medication or over‑the‑counter medication, documenting on the medication log.
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with participants, families, team members, and supervisors.
• Complete quarterly, semi‑annual, and annual Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) reports on time, engaging participants in achieving their ISP objectives.
• Ensure safety and mitigate health and safety risks throughout shifts.
• Follow safety protocols and emergency procedures, intervening as necessary during extended shifts.
• Participate in team meetings contribute to care plan development, and attend mandatory staff meetings and training.

REQUIREMENTS

Education:

• High school diploma required; higher education preferred.

Experience:

• At least one year of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or a strong enthusiasm to learn and grow in the field.

Professional Skills:

• Excellent and effective communication skills (oral and written) in English. Behavioral management skills.
• Proficiency in using electronic devices for clock-in-out, e-documentation, Microsoft Office, email, and data entry.
• Ability to conduct training, arrange activities, and engage effectively in long shifts (up to 24 to48 hours).
• Creative problem‑solving skills and the ability to develop and implement enrichment activities. Ability to adapt to participant needs and adjust to unexpected situations, particularly overextended shifts.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to multitask.
• Strong judgment and decision‑making abilities.

Environmental Conditions

• Must be able to work flexible hours, including weekend and overnight shifts (up to 24 to 48 hours straight).
• Able to perform tasks requiring lifting (up to 25 lbs), bending, and assisting with mobility or personal care.
• Extensive driving and transporting of participants within the community.
• Must have a reliable vehicle with proof of insurance, a clean DMV record, and willingness to transport participants in their personal vehicle.

Personality Traits

• Patient, caring, empathetic, with a strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life for program participants.
• Creative, innovative, and able to think outside the box for engaging activities.
• Energetic, reliable, and able to adapt to a variety of situations.
• Positive, optimistic attitude and a "Can Do" mindset.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a diverse team.
• Ability to maintain a supportive and uplifting work environment, even during long and intensive shifts.

Company Wide Job Requirements

• Must pass DOJ fingerprint-based background clearance prior to employment.
• Must pass a health screening and TB test prior to employment.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and have a clean driving record.
• Obtain valid CPR and First Aid Certificate within one month of employment.
• Use of mask when recommended/required by local Public Health Department.

Benefits

• 401(k) & matching
• Paid Sick Leave (PSL)
• Sign on Bonus
• Referral Bonus Program