Direct Support Worker-Day

• Clean, maintain and participate in the upkeep of the home and properties to ensure client and staff safety
• Assist individuals with:
  • Plan, purchase and prepare meals according to individual’s dietary needs
  • Plan and participate in leisure time and recreational activities
  • New social opportunities/experiences to the individuals
  • Cope effectively with social, emotional and physical situations
  • Assist clients with daily living activities (dressing, showering, etc) as needed

• Accumulate and record data relevant to behavioral programs, review individuals progress, developmental needs and barriers impeding progress
• Identify and prioritize individuals' needs
• Complete comprehensive documentation
• Report seizures, behavioral episodes, injury or illness, client concerns, and/or other medically or emotionally related problems to the house manager, supervisor, nurse and team members. Reports suspected allegation of abuse/neglect to the Abuse Investigation Division in a timely manner immediately.
• Report any incidents or evidence of violation of residents’ rights to Administrator and/or appropriate parties immediately.
• Ensure regular, professional communication with all team members

• Attend and successfully complete all mandatory trainings/meetings required by DDS and the agency.
• Successful completion of DDS Medication Administration Certification. Yearly maintenance of Med Certification

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree preferred or High school Diploma with 2 years’ experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Must have Medication Administration Certification or must be able to obtain Medication Administration Certification upon the next available Med Cert Course immediately following hire.
• Demonstrates organizational ability, communicates effectively with individuals served and members of the team.
• Applicants will be subject to criminal and driving history background checks. Must have a valid Connecticut driver’s license with no more than 2 violations in a three year period, subject to review. Drivers’ History completed annually.

• Knowledge of individuals with developmental disabilities and dual diagnosis.
• Knowledge of behavioral issues, including aggressive, non-verbal and self-injury behaviors.
• Ability to exercise mature judgment and relate to individuals in a warm, caring manner.
• Working knowledge and understanding of Individual Plans
• Ability to work with a diverse group of people at all levels within the organization.
• Self starter with the ability to multi-task.
• Results oriented, sound judgment, service oriented, assertive/persuasive.
• High energy level, comfortable performing multifaceted projects, plus day-to-day activities.
• Have good organizational skills, ability to set priorities, and be flexible based on changing priorities.
• Superior interpersonal abilities, teamwork mentality and social perceptiveness.
• Active listening skills with the ability to interact effectively with management.
• Ability to establish credibility, be decisive, recognize priorities.
• The direct support worker, works in both indoor and outdoor settings. Frequent lifting and/or carrying objects/individuals up to 65 plus pounds is required. Standing, sitting, stooping, kneeling, bending, balancing, walking, running, pushing, pulling, and traveling may be required
• Must be able to successfully complete Physical Management Training (PMT) restraint training course. Must have the ability to safely perform physical restraints as needed for safety
• If required to drive, candidate must be at least 21 years of age and possess a valid Connecticut Driver's License along with proof of insurance and vehicle registration.