Direct Support Professional (Citizens)

Citizens Options Unlimited; Commack (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A community support organization in Commack seeks an entry-level Direct Support Staff member to assist individuals with intellectual and other disabilities. Responsibilities include providing personal care, supporting community engagement, and ensuring a safe living environment. A high school diploma and a valid driver's license are preferred. This full-time position is vital for promoting independence and wellbeing among clients.

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate and understand written and oral directives.
• Valid NYS driver’s license and maintenance of qualified driver status.

Responsibilities

• Support individuals with self-care routines and overall wellbeing.
• Ensure a safe and clean home with household chores.
• Assist individuals with medication administration.
• Provide transportation to appointments and activities.
• Mentor new Direct Support Staff.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Practice and promote the agency’s mission statement and guiding principles in every interaction. Provide ongoing support to the people that live in the Residential Services program to ensure that a high quality of life is maintained. Provide support in the areas of, for example, self-care routines, health, safety, household chores, socialization, and overall wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Provide ongoing guidance and support to individuals with intellectual and other disabilities to ensure active participation in every aspect of their lives (i.e., self-care routines, health, safety, household chores, socialization and overall wellbeing). Provide only the level of support necessary for each person to ensure independence and engagement in their daily routine.
• Support individuals to become active members of the community, as well as maintain and build upon natural supports and relationships.
• Ensure a safe and clean home by supporting individuals with household chores and by participating as needed.
• Follow all treatment plans and utilize all corresponding adaptive and safety equipment to promote independence and ensure health, safety and well‑being.
• Support individuals in preparing meals by teaching concepts such as diet adherence, portion control and cooking skills.
• Assist individuals with medication administration according to APAM policy and procedures.
• Implement and document all treatment plans and agency-related materials (e.g., residential habilitation goals, medical case notes, communication logs) to help individuals achieve independence.
• Adhere to overtime, scheduling and minimum staffing policies to ensure quality support.
• Serve as member of the inter‑disciplinary team by attending all meetings to discuss progress and goal achievements.
• Provide transportation to medical appointments, shopping, recreational outings and other needs.
• Mentor new Direct Support Staff by demonstrating supportive routines and reviewing training manuals.
• Participate in House Meetings and maintain all certification and training expectations.
• Perform all other duties as requested by supervisor.
• Maintain regular physical contact with clients; successful completion of a fingerprint/criminal background check is required.
• Complete training on Personal Outcome Measures (POM) before evaluations and assessments.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid NYS driver’s license and maintenance of qualified driver status.
• Ability to communicate and understand written and oral directives.

Physical Aspects may include but are not limited to lifting and transferring of individuals (children and/or adults). Inability to meet the physical demands of the position may impact employment.

Seniority Level

• Entry level

Employment Type

• Full‑time

Job Function

• Other

Industries

• Individual and Family Services