DSP (Direct Support Professional) for individual with Developmental Disabilities

Direct Support Professional is needed in Fulton, Maryland to assist a young man with developmental disabilities to provide support services under the DDA Self-Directed service model. Services will be provided at the client's home and areas throughout his community. Shifts will include providing support, supervision companionship and transportation to the client:

The client is a warm and friendly 21 year old with a genetic anomaly resulting in cerebral palsy like spasticity. He likes live music, rides in his stroller outside, communicating, giving hugs, and loving support. He walks with a walker for short distances and can stand for limited periods of time assisted.

We are looking for one or two caregivers to fill the following shifts:

1. To work consistently on Sundays.

2. An overnight caregiver for our business trips, vacation, and as needed (1 weeklong vacation a year, multiple weekends).

The ideal candidate for this position:

Friendly/Loving/Energetic. We are looking for someone who is warm and energetic and who is willing to engage with the client. The client communicates in sentences. He offers suggestions as to what he wants. He is responsive to positive reinforcement, reward incentives, redirection, and love.

Responsible. We are looking for someone who is timely and attentive. The client needs assistance eating (cutting up food and assisting with self-eating or feeding him), diapering, bathing, using the bathroom, getting dressed and undressed, tooth brushing, and with other basic care needs.

Strong & physically capable. The client weighs about 125 lbs, and while he can assist with standing, turning, walking, and getting in and out of a sitting position (from the stroller, wheelchair, and car), the caretaker must be able to support 125 lbs of weight. We have mobility assistance devices (chairlift in van, and stairlift)

Licensed safe driver. The client has many activities outside the home and will need someone who is able to drive him safely to those activities. He likes live music and attends live music events in the afternoons/evenings.

Flexibility in scheduling. We are looking for caregivers who are willing to work weekends, including an occasional overnight or full weekend stays.

Valid CMT. The client takes medication twice daily, and staff must be certified to administer medications.

Job Details

Pay Starting at $30 - depending on availability and experience

Mileage reimbursement is available for all miles driven with client in the vehicle

General Job Duties

· Provide direct support to the client, an individual with developmental disabilities

· Provide supervision at all times

· Always maintain eyesight of client, unless privacy is requested, then staff must stay within hearing distance. Overnight staff must sleep with a monitor and be responsive if the client wakes up, calls out to be repositioned, or is coughing.

· Observe client for any changes in behavior or health and report any noted problems/concerns.

· Assist in the implementation of the client’s plans (PCP, NCP, BIP)

· Provide and/or assist with transportation to and from activities, outings and appointments.

· Assist the individual in the pursuit of recreational, educational, social and community activities based on their preferences and individual plans.

· Assist and encourage the client in the establishment of social networks.

· Promote participation and involvement in community outings.

Job Expectations:

· Always have mobile phone available to utilize for recording shifts, communicating with the team, and in case of emergency.

· Do not conduct personal business during work time.

· Limit personal phone usage

· Do not post photos or videos of client on social media or to any site, without permission from the client, or their guardian, if applicable.

· Function as a positive role model during all work hours, which includes refraining from smoking, drinking alcohol, use of foul language, watching shows with adult themes, dressing inappropriately, etc.

· Treat client and coworkers with dignity, respect, and fairness.

Job Requirements:

· Work all assigned schedules, including but not limited to arriving and departing on time, requesting time off in advance, and notifying your client of changes to your assigned work schedule.

· Ensure the client’s rights are protected, maintain client’s confidentiality, and advocate for the needs of the client.

· Do not provide services to any other individual at the same time as services are being provided to the client

· Review and implement all client plans (Nursing Care Plan “NCP,” Person Centered Plan “PCP,” Behavior Intervention Plan “BIP”) as applicable.

· Complete and maintain all required State mandated training (CPR/First Aide/AED)

· Complete all additional training mandated by the client (CMT, Mandt, etc.) as applicable

· Maintain valid driver’s license, up to date vehicle insurance and clear driving record.

· Ability to pass Background screening

· Ensure you are accurately reflecting all shift details using the assigned App

· Ensure you are entering and approving your shifts and time in the portal, in accordance with the payroll calendar.

Ideal Qualifications:

· Previous experience in direct support, disability services, or a related field is preferred.

· Knowledge of vital signs monitoring and basic health care practices.

· Familiarity with HIPAA regulations

· Experience working with people of various ages, and needs

· Ability to maintain a clean environment and promote hygiene practices among residents.

· Certification in CPR/First Aid & CMT

· Ability to read, understand and implement Nursing Plan and Behavior Plan, if needed

· Compassionate nature with a commitment to support individuals with disabilities or special needs.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid training

Application Question(s):

• Please share your work shift availability. Will you be consistently available on Sundays? Do you have the flexibility to provide care for an entire week or weekend several times throughout the year?

Experience:

• working with individuals with disabilities: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $30