Direct Support Professional - Howard Beach, Queens NY

Access: Supports for Living; New York (NY); On-site; USD 29,274; Full time

Job summary

A leading support services provider in Howard Beach, Queens NY is seeking a Direct Support Professional to provide essential personal support to individuals with developmental disabilities. Responsibilities include documentation of services, community relationship building, and ensuring individual wellness. Candidates should possess a High School Diploma, a valid driver’s license, and effective interpersonal skills to promote empowerment and advocacy. This role emphasizes choice, independence, and personal growth in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license and ability to operate an agency vehicle if needed.
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Provide person-centered support to individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Document services according to agency and regulatory requirements.
• Support individuals in their community integration efforts.

Skills

Good interpersonal skills

Analytical ability

Effective communication

Ability to work as part of a team

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Location: Howard Beach, Queens NY

Pay Rate: $21.25/hr.

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (40hrs) + 1hr unpaid Lunch

No Weekends! Must have a valid driver's license

Direct Support Professionals perform a wide variety of person centered supports and services with a strong emphasis on personal choice to individuals with developmental disabilities. The Direct Support Professional is responsible for providing guidance, training, support and encouragement to people receiving services to promote enriched lives, further independence and enhance community integration.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Provide services to persons served according to their written Staff Action Plan and individual Safeguards.
• Document Habilitation services contemporaneously in accordance with the Agency, OPWDD, Medicaid and other requirements.
• Provide input into the development and implementation of the Staff Action Plan Habilitation Plan in accordance with the Life Plan as developed by each person receiving services, family, advocate and Care Coordinator.
• Monitor the safety and welfare of people served, take corrective actions as necessary and immediately notify supervisor of concerns.
• Provide required level of supervision as stated in the Staff Action Plan and individual Safeguards.
• Assist and support people served to build positive relationships in their community.
• Provide needed support and encouragement for people served to advocate for their needs and rights.
• Provide training and encouragement to people served to ensure good personal health care as needed.
• Communicate health care concerns to supervisor or administrator as necessary.
• Communicate professionally with persons receiving services, families, team members and the community.
• Complete all required paperwork and documentation on a daily basis, including checklists, progress notes, injury/fall reports, seizure reports, attendance records, etc. Complete Monthly Summary Notes on a timely basis as required.
• Maintain all aspects of DSP Driver responsibilities including but not limited to:
  • Provide transportation to people served focusing on safety, accountability, and good behavior.
  • Follow the Transportation protocol including vehicle safety check. Ensure attendance checks are done each time individuals board and vacate the vehicle.
  • Maintain certifications and driving authorization.
• Encourage community integration with an emphasis on inclusion, access, community awareness and safety.

New York Families For Autistic Children Job Description

• Attend staff meetings and participate in supervision for professional growth and development.
• Complete all required initial and annual training as well as ongoing training to increase knowledge.
• Conduct fire drills and document results in accordance with supervisor’s instructions.
• Required to work overtime to ensure proper adherence to staffing ratios.
• Adhere to and implement the NADSP Code of Ethics, Justice Center Code of Conduct and NYS DSP Core Competencies.
• Adhere to all Agency and Program Policies and Procedures, including HIPAA, Confidentiality and implementing the Corporate Compliance Plan and related policies and procedures.
• Other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS And ABILITIES

• Ability to instruct others on vocational or daily living skills.
• Actively listen and be able to communicate, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Good interpersonal skills and commitment to assisting individuals with disabilities.
• Maintain composure under pressure.
• Ability to speak, read and write in English.
• Serve as a role model and represent the agency positively in the community.
• Ability to use a computer or mobile device to access email and required software.
• Ability to self‑initiate projects and function autonomously as a leader when needed.

Qualifications

• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to read, write, speak and understand English.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Strong interpersonal, listening, communication and motivational skills.
• Good analytical ability with problem‐solving and follow up.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in the use of a personal computer and appropriate software and E‑Mail system.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to operate an agency vehicle if needed.

EDUCATION And/or EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Possess and maintain a valid NYS Driver License.
• Prior experience working with I/DD population preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to perform the essential physical functions of the job including but not limited to the ability to stoop, lift, kneel, push, pull, reach, stand, walk, hear, listen and communicate appropriately.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

Access: Supports For Living & NYFAC are an EEO employer. An Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and Veterans.