Direct Support Specialist — Empower Independent Living

Open Arms Care; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Open Arms Care seeks a dedicated professional to support individuals in residential settings and community activities. You will promote a positive, organized environment, coach clients in independent living, and coordinate transportation and documentation for services.

The role requires CPR and PCM certifications within specified timelines, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to lift 50 pounds. You’ll work as part of an interdisciplinary team to ensure client welfare and CMS compliance.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Must have valid driver’s license.
• CPR certification within 30 days of hire is required.
• Certified in Professional Crisis Management (PCM) within 60 days of hire is required.
• Ability to lift repetitively a minimum of 50 pounds; tasks may include lifting, repositioning, turning, bending, squatting, etc.
• Good oral, written and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with others.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to follow procedures, instructions, laws and policies.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image on behalf of the organization. Must be an effective team member.
• Ability to prioritize and manage time effectively.

Responsibilities

• Represent OAC in a positive and professional manner in community meetings, events and social functions.
• Provides day-to-day organization and implementation of activities that promote an organized and positive environment.
• Independently make decisions regarding best practices, quality assurance, risk management and problem-solving, including reporting of serious injuries.
• Coach, teach, and mentor individuals in home management and personal independence.
• Engage clients in ISP-based activities for the ID/DD program according to CMS requirements.
• Advocate for each client’s needs and welfare and ensure follow-up when concerns are identified.
• Coordinate, schedule and/or transport clients to appointments and activities; prepare and review required documents.
• Document client participation and progress in training objectives to teach independent living skills.
• Communicate with the interdisciplinary team including ISP’s, behavior management, and incident reports.
• Interact with clients’ families and maintain positive relationships internally and externally.
• Attend trainings/meetings and stay current on all certifications.
• Provide support across local operations when necessary.
• Transport clients to medical appointments and client outings as assigned.
• Maintain work schedules and document time worked accurately.
• Perform duties professionally, timely, and efficiently; take on additional tasks as assigned.
• Participate in committees or volunteer as needed.

Skills

CPR certification

PCM certification

Driver's license

Interpersonal skills

Written communication

Confidentiality

Time management

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Open Arms Care seeks a dedicated professional to support individuals in residential settings and community activities. You will promote a positive, organized environment, coach clients in independent living, and coordinate transportation and documentation for services.

The role requires CPR and PCM certifications within specified timelines, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to lift 50 pounds. You’ll work as part of an interdisciplinary team to ensure client welfare and CMS compliance.