Direct Support Specialist: Compassionate Care

AltaPointe Health; Sylacauga (AL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

AltaPointe Health in Sylacauga, AL seeks a dedicated Direct Support Professional to assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across group homes. You will support daily living, safety, and person-centered plans under supervision, documenting progress and coordinating with the team.

The role emphasizes compassionate care, adherence to medication procedures, crisis de-escalation, and teamwork. A High School diploma and valid driver's license required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of psychiatric disorders in the adult population.
• Knowledge of cultural diversity.
• Knowledge of behavior management, crisis intervention, and interventions common to acute psychotic consumers, as well as, to non-violent crisis intervention practices.
• Knowledge of educational methods to adults with severe and persistent psychiatric disorders.
• Successful completion of Medication Assistance Certification (MAC).
• Successful completion of Defensive Driving program.

Responsibilities

• Provides ongoing monitoring and interaction with people served to include training on Person Centered Planning, implementation of Psychotropic Medication and Behavioral Support plans if applicable.
• Assists with personal care issues (bathing, toileting, and other personal hygiene issues), medication administration, chores, and safety issues.
• Preparation of meals according to individualized dietary orders, posted menus and responsible for stocking food and household items.
• Demonstrate the ability to recognize the elements of a crisis state and takes a proactive approach to deescalate or resolve the situation.
• Ongoing compliance with Nurse Delegation Program, including recertification requirements.
• Ensures adherence to individual appointments and implements planned activities.

Skills

Psychiatric knowledge

Cultural competence

Behavior management

Crisis intervention

Adult education methods

MAC certification

Defensive driving

Education

High school diploma

Job description

AltaPointe Health in Sylacauga, AL seeks a dedicated Direct Support Professional to assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across group homes. You will support daily living, safety, and person-centered plans under supervision, documenting progress and coordinating with the team.

The role emphasizes compassionate care, adherence to medication procedures, crisis de-escalation, and teamwork. A High School diploma and valid driver's license required.