What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Support Specialist - La Crescent/Caledonia position at ABLE INC?
Job Summary
The Community Support Specialist plays a vital role in delivering high-quality, person-centered care in alignment with ABLE’s mission to honor and respect every individual supported. This is a dual-role position that combines direct support care for individuals with developmental disabilities and administrative on-call responsibilities.
Candidates must have the ability and desire to support individuals with developmental disabilities or related conditions, promoting dignity, independence, and personal choice.
Key Responsibilities
Direct Support Responsibilities
- Assist individuals with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring, and ambulating.
- Maintain hygiene needs as outlined in care plans; provide incontinent care and assist with bedpans/urinals.
- Administer medications and monitor for side effects (TMA trained).
- Turn non-ambulatory individuals to prevent bedsores.
- Record vital signs and complete accurate, timely documentation.
- Operate lifts and other adaptive equipment safely.
- Ensure a clean, safe, and supportive environment that honors individual privacy, dignity, and preferences.
Administrative & On-Call Duties
- Serve as an on-call support professional one weekend per month, managing schedule changes and answering staff questions. May be required to be on-site if staffing needs require.
- Provide interim support for open positions as needed.
- Offer training, coaching, and feedback to staff as required.
- Manage multiple priorities and redirect resources in a dynamic environment.
Work Expectations
- Flexible scheduling with availability for a variety of shifts.
- Must be available every other weekend.
- Must be willing to work in both La Crescent and Caledonia locations.
- Participate in an on-call rotation (one weekend per month).
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Current certifications in CPR, First Aid, TMA, and PBS (provided on-site through ABLE).
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to handle multiple priorities and make decisions under pressure.
- Must be 18 years or older.
Preferred
- Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Experience in scheduling or supervising staff.
- Previous training or mentoring experience.
Personal Characteristics
- Empathetic, professional, and respectful communicator.
- Dependable, punctual, and flexible with scheduling.
- Strong work ethic and team-oriented mindset.
- Culturally sensitive and respectful of individual preferences and practices.
- Demonstrates integrity and ethical behavior in all aspects of work.
Physical & Environmental Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (occasionally up to 100 lbs with proper technique/equipment).
- Frequent bending, kneeling, stretching, and standing.
- Visual and auditory acuity to meet care needs.
- Work is performed in a temperature-controlled home environment.
Travel & Reporting
- Travel: Local travel between sites is required.
- Direct Reports: None
Pre-Hire Requirements
- Background check
- Reference check
- Driver clearance (if driving is required)
Disclaimer
This job description outlines the general nature and level of work expected of this position. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. ABLE, Inc. reserves the right to modify this role as needed to meet organizational and program needs.
The Community Support Specialist plays a vital role in delivering high-quality, person-centered care in alignment with ABLE’s mission to honor and respect every individual supported. This is a dual-role position that combines direct support care for individuals with developmental disabilities and administrative on-call responsibilities.
Candidates must have the ability and desire to support individuals with developmental disabilities or related conditions, promoting dignity, independence, and personal choice.