Direct Support Professional I-72532904

Institute for Community Living Inc. (ICL); Brooklyn (AL); On-site; USD 39,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

403(b) retirement plan

Paid time off

Wellness programs

Career development

Commuter benefits

Discount programs

Flexible spending

Pet insurance

Job summary

Institute for Community Living Inc. (ICL) is seeking a Direct Support Professional to provide direct care in a residential setting.

The role emphasizes helping adults with developmental or physical disabilities develop daily living skills and independence in a least-restrictive environment. The position requires a High School Diploma or GED, a DSP certificate or ability to obtain within six months, and certifications including AMAP, SCIP-R, and CPR/First Aid.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• DSP Certificate from an accredited organization; must obtain within 6 months of hire.
• Experience providing direct care to adults with developmental and/or physical disabilities preferred.
• AMAP, SCIP-R, CPR and First Aid certifications required or obtainable within six months of hire.
• Valid United States work authorization.
• Residential onsite setting experience is required or preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide personal care and health support including hygiene, grooming, toileting, medication administration (per AMAP), vital signs, and medical appointments.
• Support nutrition and mealtime activities, including meal preparation, safe food handling, and social dining skills.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized residential environment including housekeeping and safety tasks.
• Promote development, independence, and community integration through skill-building and transportation support.
• Observe, document, and report progress; participate in team meetings and staff training; assist in program planning.

Skills

Direct care experience

Communication

Documentation

Teamwork

Driving ability

Education

High School Diploma or GED

DSP Certificate

Tools

AMAP Certification

SCIP-R Certification

CPR/First Aid

Driver's License

Job description

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required;
• Direct Support Professional (DSP) Certificate from an accredited public or private organization

Experience:

• Experience providing direct care to adults with developmental and/or physical disabilities preferred

Certifications / Licenses:

• AMAP Certification - current or able to obtain within six (6) months of hire
• SCIP-R Certification - current or able to obtain within six (6) months of hire
• CPR and First Aid Certification - current or able to obtain within six (6) months of hire
• Valid New York State Driver's License with a clean driving record (may be required based on shift/location)

Work Eligibility:

• Must be authorized to work in the United States

Work Location Requirement:

• Residential setting (onsite). Specific location and schedule vary by program.

Compensation

• Hourly Rate: $19.8077

What We Offer

We provide competitive benefits, including:

• Comprehensive Health Benefits: Medical (HSA), Dental, and Vision
• 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with employer match
• Generous Paid Time Off: Vacation, personal, sick time, mental health days, and 12 paid holidays
• Employee Wellness Programs: Employee Assistance Program and mental health resources
• Learning & Development Opportunities: Educational leave, tuition assistance, training, and career development tracks
• Additional Perks: Commuter benefits, recognition programs, discount programs, flexible spending plans, and voluntary benefits including pet insurance, identity theft protection, and legal plans

About the Role

Under the general supervision of clinical or supervisory staff, the Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential setting. DSPs assist and motivate individuals to meet their daily living needs and support the development of vocational, social, nutritional, and personal skills necessary to achieve the highest level of independence possible in the least restrictive environment.

DSPs perform a wide range of routine and support tasks that vary based on the abilities of the individuals served and the residential setting.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide personal care and health support, including hygiene, grooming, toileting, medication administration (per AMAP), vital signs, and medical appointments
• Support nutrition and mealtime activities, including meal preparation, safe food handling, and social dining skills
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized residential environment, including housekeeping, fire safety, and minor maintenance tasks
• Promote individual development, independence, and community integration through skill-building, recreation, employment supports, and transportation
• Encourage positive interpersonal relationships, communication skills, money management, and leisure activitiesObserve, document, and report individual progress; participate in program planning, team meetings, and staff training
• Apply approved behavior management techniques and respond appropriately to emergencies
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of OPWDD policies and applicable state and federal regulations
• Understanding of active treatment and habilitation principles
• Strong communication, documentation, and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently, manage challenging situations calmly, and operate a motor vehicle when required

Physical Requirements

• Ability to assist individuals with mobility and personal care
• Ability to respond to behavioral and emergency situations