Direct Service Professional

About Claratel Behavioral Health

Claratel Behavioral Health is an innovative, community-based behavioral health and developmental disabilities services organization offering a full range of mental health, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorder services to underserved individuals. As a public, not-for-profit organization, Claratel Behavioral Health operates in more than 20 locations in DeKalb County, Georgia, with a diverse workforce of more than 400 direct-care and support staff.

If you are passionate about driving change in behavioral health and developmental services and are eager to work in an environment that values innovation and inclusivity, Claratel Behavioral Health is the place for you. Here, your work is impactful, your growth is prioritized, and your well-being is supported. Together, we can forge pathways to a healthier future for all.

Job Title: Direct Support Professional – Day Program – Part Time

Job Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for providing compassionate and personalized care to individuals with developmental disabilities. The DSP will support individuals in their daily activities, promote independence, and ensure their health, safety, and well-being. This role involves assisting with personal care, facilitating community involvement, and implementing individual support plans.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and eating.
• Support individuals in maintaining personal hygiene and health.
• Facilitate and encourage participation in community activities and social interactions.
• Support individuals in developing and maintaining relationships with family, friends, and community members.
• Assist with transportation to appointments, recreational activities, and other community engagements.
• Implement and follow individualized support plans (ISP) and behavior support plans (BSP) as written.
• Monitor and document progress towards individual goals, ensuring accurate and timely data collection.
• Provide input into the development and revision of ISPs and BSPs.
• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of individuals at all times.
• Administer medications according to prescribed schedules and document administration accurately.
• Report any changes in health status or unusual occurrences to supervisory staff immediately.
• Conduct regular safety checks and report any environmental hazards.
• Assist individuals in managing behavioral challenges using approved intervention techniques.
• Provide positive reinforcement and support to promote appropriate behaviors.
• Complete incident reports promptly and accurately as required.
• Assist individuals in maintaining a clean and orderly living environment.
• Support individuals with household chores, such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, and grocery shopping.
• Ensure that individuals’ personal possessions are safeguarded.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including daily logs, progress notes, medication administration records (MAR), and communication logs.
• Communicate effectively with individuals, their families, other staff members, and external professionals.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and other required activities.
• Advocate for individuals' rights and needs within the community and support their choices and preferences.
• Encourage and support individuals in pursuing their interests, hobbies, and goals.
• Complete all required training and certifications within the designated time frames.
• Stay informed about best practices in the field and participate in ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Weekends required.
  
  

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Additional coursework or certification in human services, social work, or related fields is preferred.
• At least 1 year of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred.
• Experience in a residential or community-based setting is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Compassionate, patient, and empathetic approach to care.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Basic computer skills for documentation purposes.
• Valid Georgia Driver’s License and acceptable Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) required.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid preferred or must be obtained within a specified period after hire.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds unassisted.
• Frequent bending, reaching, repetitive hand movements, standing, walking, squatting, and sitting.
• Some heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling exerted regularly throughout a regular work shift.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Work may be performed in various settings, including individuals’ homes, community centers, and other community locations.
• May require working evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the needs of the individuals supported.
• Must be available for on-call duties as needed.
  
  

Pre-employment drug screening may be required. Selected applicant will be subject of an FBI Criminal History Record Check, and the applicant has the right to challenge the contents of their Criminal History Record Information, should they choose to do so.

For more information visit www.dekcsb.org/careers

DeKalb CSB is an equal opportunity employer regarding disability under VEVRRA and ADA

Pre-employment drug screening and successful completion of a criminal history background check is required.

Claratel Behavioral Health participates in E-Verify (Company ID: 226305)

Claratel Behavioral Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates who may require an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act or similar law to perform the essential functions of this job are encouraged to contact Human Resources at hrhelp@claratel.org.