Substitute DSP for Residential Homes and Day Program

Position Summary

The Substitute Direct Support Professional provides person-centered services and active treatment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities participating in the Center for Independent Achievement (CIA) day program, the Behavior Modification Program (BMP), and Residential Homes, as assigned. DSP Substitutes are responsible for implementing individualized programs, behavior intervention plans, supporting health and safety, promoting dignity and independence, and ensuring compliance with agency policy, regulatory standards, and professional practices.

Essential Functions

Attendance, Reliability & Accountability

· Report to work on time and follow scheduling and call-off procedures.

· Attend mandatory trainings, meetings, and in-services.

· Complete assignments with minimal supervision.

· Use work time appropriately and productively.

Person-Centered Services & Client Rights

· Support individual choice, preferences, and independence.

· Maintain dignity, privacy, and professional boundaries.

· Recognize and report any suspected rights violations immediately.

· Encourage self-advocacy.

Program Implementation / Active Treatment

· Implement goals and teaching programs exactly as written.

· Follow prompt hierarchies and reinforcement systems.

· Utilize natural teaching opportunities throughout the day.

· Ensure meaningful engagement during leisure or downtime.

· Immediately report refusals, regressions, or barriers to progress.

Behavioral Support & Crisis Response

· Collaborate with the BCBA and Administration to implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and approved strategies to reduce maladaptive behaviors and increase adaptive skills.

· Implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) consistently.

· Use proactive and de-escalation strategies.

· Apply the least restrictive interventions.

· May be required to perform approved physical interventions, including escorts or restraints, consistent with training and agency policy.

Documentation & Data Collection

· Complete accurate and timely documentation of client programs.

· Complete incident, accident, injury, illness, and behavior reports.

· Maintain records that meet licensing and Regional Center standards.

Reinforcement Systems

· Implement token, point, or reward systems correctly and daily.

· Monitor effectiveness and notify supervisors when adjustments may be needed.

Direct Care & Personal Assistance

· Assist individuals with hygiene, grooming, toileting, eating, and dressing.

· Provide respectful, supportive, and professional care at all times.

· Notify supervisors of clothing or supply needs.

Consumer Health & Medication Support

· Follow medication administration and health monitoring policies.

· Report unusual behaviors, illness, or injury promptly.

· Notify the RN or supervisor regarding medication concerns, errors, or low supplies.

· Follow seizure and medical care plans.

Community Integration & Vocational Support

· Support participation in community and recreational outings.

· Assist individuals in developing social and safety skills.

· When assigned, provide support at vocational or volunteer sites.

· Maintain professional relationships with community partners and inform supervisors of developments.

Funds & Property Management

· Teach money and purchasing skills.

· Protect individuals from financial misuse or exploitation.

Cleaning & Environmental Standards

· Maintain clean, safe, and organized workspaces.

· Report on maintenance or equipment concerns.

· Involve individuals in cleaning tasks when appropriate.

Nutrition & Meal Support

• Follow all physician orders, dietary requirements related to food texture, portion, adaptive equipment, and level of assistance.
• Verify that meals brought from home match the individual’s prescribed diet (e.g., regular, soft-chopped, ground, puréed, thickened liquids, double/single portions, etc.).
• Ensure food is prepared, set up, and served in accordance with the prescribed order prior to the individual eating.
• Utilize required adaptive utensils as applicable.
• Provide direct assistance or supervision during meals based on the individual’s assessed needs.
• Monitor for safety concerns including choking risks, pace of eating, and proper swallowing.
• Document concerns or discrepancies and notify the appropriate supervisor.

Residential Home Operations & Cleanliness

· Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized living environment.

· Complete assigned household tasks.

· Report maintenance or safety issues immediately.

· Involve individuals in cleaning tasks when appropriate.

Communication

· Respond promptly to all forms of communication.

· Inform supervisors promptly of concerns or incidents.

· Communicate respectfully with clients, co-workers, families, professionals, and the public.

· Accept coaching and feedback positively.

Teamwork & Professional Conduct

· Assist coworkers and contribute to team responsibilities.

· Maintain a positive, flexible, solution-oriented attitude.

· Represent PFI professionally at all times.

Decision Making & Initiative

· Use sound judgment consistent with agency policies and individual plans.

· Anticipate needs and solve problems proactively.

· Adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining safety and supervision.

· Demonstrate initiative by identifying tasks that need to be completed and taking appropriate action without waiting to be directed.T\

Transportation (if assigned)

· Operate vehicles safely.

· Follow agency transportation procedures.

· Maintain cleanliness.

· Report on service or safety issues.

Residential Overnight Shift Designation (If assigned)

· Residential assignments may be scheduled for sleeping overnight shifts. During these shifts, staff may sleep during designated hours when residents are resting; however, staff must remain on-site and immediately available to respond to resident needs, emergencies, or safety concerns.

· Substitute overnight staff must follow all overnight monitoring procedures, complete required documentation, and respond promptly to residents who are awake, ill, or in need of assistance.

· Compensation for overnight sleep shifts is provided in accordance with PFI compensation policies.

Minimum Qualifications

· High school diploma or equivalent.

· One year of experience in developmental disabilities, special education, or related field preferred.

· Experience in both Day Program and Residential settings.

· Must obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid certification.

· Must pass required background screenings and pre-employment health screenings.

· Must complete the required 40-hour RBT Training within the 1st year of employment.

Language Requirement:
Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to follow instructions, implement programs, complete documentation, and communicate effectively with individuals served, families, supervisors, medical professionals, and regulatory agencies.

Physical Requirements

Employees must be able to stand and walk for extended periods; climb stairs, kneel, stoop, and move quickly; lift, transfer, or assist individuals and/or objects weighing 50–100 pounds; and respond rapidly in emergencies. Vision and hearing must be within normal limits, with or without assistive devices.

Work Environment

Services are delivered in classrooms, residential homes, community settings, vehicles, and outdoor environments. Staff must remain alert and actively supervise individuals at all times.

Reporting Structure

Reports directly to the Program Manager (Day Program) or House Manager (Residential locations) and works under the direction of the Director of Day Program and QIDP.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other duties assigned to meet the organization’s ongoing needs.

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid sick time
• Paid training
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement

Experience:

• working in a Residential Setting: 1 year (Required)
• working in a Day Program setting: 1 year (Required)
• working with adults with developmental disabilities: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $20