Direct Support Specialist: Empowering Independence

Sertoma Star Services; Chicago Heights (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Medical insurance

Employer-paid life/AD&D

Long-term disability

Employee assistance program

401(k) with match

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Sertoma Star Services seeks a Direct Support Professional in Chicago Heights to empower individuals with disabilities and mental illness through hands-on support, training, and positive daily life engagement.

You will work with consumers to build skills, foster independence, and promote inclusion by providing transportation, documentation, and collaboration with families and staff. A valid driver's license is required and Pace certification within 3 months is expected.

Qualifications

• Good verbal and written communication with consumers and colleagues.
• Ability to collaborate with coworkers and consumers to support goals.
• Knowledge of working with individuals with disabilities.
• Ability to work independently and complete tasks per guidance.
• Must have a valid driver's license and meet driving requirements.
• PACE certification must be obtained within 3 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Communicate with consumers using preferred communication methods to assess likes, interests, and needs.
• Treat consumers with dignity and support independence.
• Assist consumers to achieve outcomes documented in Personal Plan.
• Provide training by doing tasks with the consumer, not for them.
• Support personal success using plan/implementation strategies.
• Advocate for consumer wants and needs and empower self-advocacy.
• Encourage community participation and develop natural supports.
• Promote daily life decision-making and problem solving.
• Assess risks to enable informed participation in new experiences.
• Protect rights and educate consumers about them.
• Document supports via HSMS including daily notes and reports.
• Collaborate with staff, outside providers, and guardians for quality services.
• Follow agency policies and procedures.
• Transport consumers to CDS programs and activities.
• Support on-line production line training to build job skills.

Skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Disability services knowledge

Independent work

Driver's license

PACE certification

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Sertoma Star Services seeks a Direct Support Professional in Chicago Heights to empower individuals with disabilities and mental illness through hands-on support, training, and positive daily life engagement.

You will work with consumers to build skills, foster independence, and promote inclusion by providing transportation, documentation, and collaboration with families and staff. A valid driver's license is required and Pace certification within 3 months is expected.