Positive Support Specialist

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is a dynamic social service organization serving children, youth and families, people with disabilities, older adults, and military veterans. Trustworthiness is a value and strength shared by our employees and recognized by the communities we serve. We offer an Alive Workplace (Supportive, Positive and Fun) and careers that challenge, energize, and reward employees. Consider joining us!

LSS is dedicated to providing community-based services in the most integrated setting possible. We developed Intensive Community Residential Services (ICRS) in response to a need in our community for more options for individuals with complex needs.

Job Summary:

Positive Support Specialists (PSS) work in our ICRS programs. These are highly specialized programs in which we serve individuals with intensive medical, behavioral and mental health needs. We utilize a person-centered approach to creating a program that focuses on supporting people to reach their goals, while still considering the safety of the individual, team members and the community. Consistency and routine are key factors in the proven success of these programs. Highly trained Positive Support Specialists will assist individuals both at home and the community to participate in events and activities that are meaningful to the individual.

As a PSS team member, you will also:

• Assist individuals to be more independent in performing essential life skills such as meal preparation, personal hygiene and navigating the community.
• Advocate for the people supported in areas such as rights, medical care and in the community.
• Complete necessary documentation and record-keeping every shift.
• Manage crisis situations safely and effectively - this can include potential use of manual restraints. Candidates will receive training for Positive Behavioral Supports and manual restraints in conjunction with the 245D requirements.
• Engage in trauma-informed care daily.

What We Offer You:

• An excellent benefits package that includes medical, dental, life, vision, 403(b) plan with a match, wellness program, and other ancillary plans.
• A generous PTO plan, holiday pay, and float days.
• Training paid at full wage.
• Opportunities for continued professional development and growth within the organization.
• An ALIVE Workplace that is Supportive, Positive, Healthy, and Fun!
• A workplace that embraces diversity.
• An outstanding reputation.

Requirements:

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work with a variety of individuals.
• Must physically be able to stand, squat, bend, or walk for long periods of time. The ability to lift 50 lbs. is necessary.
• Knowledge of local community resources is a plus.
• Must be cleared by a Bureau of Criminal Affairs (BCA) background study and have a driver's license - a Motor Vehicle Check (MVR) is also required.

Qualifications:

• Minimum education is a high school diploma, but the preference is a degree in a field relevant to this role.
• Minimum experience is 1-2 years of working with people with complex needs, but the preference is for 3-5 years of relevant experience

Behaviors

• Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest
• Thought Provoking: Capable of making others think deeply on a subject
• Team Player: Works well as a member of a group
• Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well
• Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity

Motivations

• Growth Opportunities: Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibility
• Work-Life Balance: Inspired to perform well by having ample time to pursue work and interests outside of work
• Flexibility: Inspired to perform well when granted the ability to set your own schedule and goals
• Financial: Inspired to perform well by monetary reimbursement
• Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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