Direct Support Professional (DSP)

POSITION SUMMARY

Provides hands-on support, training, and skill-building assistance to individuals with disabilities in community employment settings and Daybreak program activities. Supports participants in developing natural supports, engaging in educational and community activities, and ensuring safety and well-being. Acts as a positive role model while promoting disability awareness with employers and the community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Serve as a positive role model for program participants.
• Provide hands-on support based on individual needs in Daybreak activities and employment-related goals.
• Assist participants during outings, community activities, and skill-building opportunities.
• Support individuals in developing natural supports within community settings.
• Provide personal care assistance, including restroom use, cleanup, and mobility support (e.g., pushing wheelchairs, lifting with assistance).
• Assist with medication administration and maintain accurate Medication Administration Records (MARS).
• Document ISP goals, case notes, progress, and daily activities in a timely manner.
• Provide hands-on support at placement sites to ensure positive outcomes for employers, participants, and referral sources.
• Ensure safety and quality standards are maintained at all times.
• Maintain confidentiality of individuals receiving services.
• Participate in meetings, committees, and team development activities.
• Assist with kitchen maintenance, snacks/lunch, and facility upkeep as needed.
• Provide transportation for participants when required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 1 year of experience working with or training individuals with disabilities (community experience preferred).
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience with seniors, fragile adults, or individuals with disabilities is helpful.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate's degree or equivalent training in rehabilitation, social work, communication, or related field may substitute for one year of experience.
• Conversational Spanish.
• American Sign Language.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Excellent communication, customer service, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to support a diverse workforce.
• Ability to conduct assessments, identify natural supports, and eliminate barriers.
• Ability to model strong work practices and make safety-related decisions.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Ability to participate effectively in team processes.
• Basic computer and calculator skills.
• Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and proof of insurance.
• Ability to obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid, OIS, and any other certification that may be required.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends based on availability.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Temperature fluctuations, dust, dirt, odors, fumes, chemicals.
• Noise, biohazards.
• Outdoor weather during outings or community job sites.
• Frequent interruptions, working alone, flexible hours, on-call status.
• Driving in traffic and exposure to disagreeable or agitated individuals.
• Pressure of deadlines and extensive, detailed work.
• Exposure to computer monitors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Physical ability to:
• Stand, walk, bend, twist, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions.
• Push/pull wheelchairs and assist with lifting individuals.
• Occasionally lift/carry up to 40 lbs; lift up to 100 lbs with assistance; push up to 100 lbs; pull up to 200 lbs.
• Provide personal care assistance, including restroom use, cleanup, and mobility support (e.g., pushing wheelchairs, lifting with assistance).

ADA / REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION

Garten Services will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of the job, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship.

DISCLAIMER

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.