Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professionals (DSP’s) are caregivers who provide support and assistance to people with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or Autism, helping them to lead fulfilling lives and participate in their communities. Their primary responsibility is to create an environment of increased independence in all activities of daily living. They are responsible for understanding and adhering to person-centered plans, which describe individual goals and objectives.

Reports to: Team Leader, Assistant Manager or Manager

Supervises: None

DSP Responsibilities

• Personal Care: Assisting individuals with daily personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing,
• grooming, and toileting.
• Medication Management: Administering medications as prescribed and ensuring individuals follow
• their medication schedules.
• Meal Planning and Preparation: Planning nutritious meals, assisting with meal preparation, and
• helping individuals with eating if necessary.
• Household Tasks: Assisting with household chores, cleaning, minor maintenance such as changing
• light bulbs, snow removal, and maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment.
• Transportation: Providing transportation for individuals to appointments, activities, and community
• events.
• Community Inclusion: Supporting individuals in participating in community activities, social events,
• and recreational outings.
• Employment Support: Supporting individuals to learn about and access services and supports to
• obtain or maintain competitive, integrated employment.
• Communication: Facilitating effective communication between individuals with disabilities and others,
• and providing emotional support.
• Documentation: Keeping accurate records of daily activities, progress, and any incidents, and reporting
• to supervisors as required.
• Behavioral Support: Implementing behavior support plans and strategies to address challenging
• behaviors and promote positive behavior.
• Advocacy: Advocating for the rights and preferences of individuals with disabilities and ensuring their
• voices are heard.
• Training and Education: Providing training to individuals on life skills, social skills, and other
• relevant areas to enhance their independence.
• Collaboration: Collaborating with other members of the support team, including healthcare
• professionals, case workers, and family members.
• Crisis Intervention: Responding appropriately to crisis situations and following established protocols
• to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals.
• Professional Development: Engaging in ongoing professional development and training to stay
• updated on best practices in the field.

NOTE: Specific job duties will vary depending on the settings which include residential facilities, community

support programs, or support in the individuals’ home and/or community.

Policies and Procedures

1. Follow all policies and procedures, including Employee Handbook and safety procedures
2. Maintain confidentiality regarding individuals as defined by HIPAA and SKILLS’ policies and procedures
3. Immediately report concerns regarding the health, safety, or welfare of individuals and coworkers
4. Follow Mandt procedures to deescalate potentially volatile situations
5. Maintain all safety standards, including driver safety, community safety, and home safety

Trainings and Meetings

1. Attend and complete all assigned training in required time frame
2. Attend staff meetings and other scheduled meetings

General

1. Carry out other duties as assigned

Work Environment and Job Hazards

This position provides support for one or more people and involves working independently or with other staff. Staff must remain awake and alert on overnight shifts. Staff may be:

1. Exposed to bloodborne or airborne pathogens. Staff have the option to take Hepatitis B series at SKILLS’ cost as required by Occupational Safety and Health Agency (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogens Standards.
2. Subjected to scratching, hitting, biting, kicking, yelling, or other behaviors.

Education, Experience, and Requirements

Required:

1. High School diploma or equivalent
2. Minimum 18 years of age
3. Basic computer skills
4. Valid Maine driver’s license and acceptable driving record (may not be required for overnight shifts)
5. Willingness to undergo extensive background checks and reference checks

Preferred:

1. Experience in health, education, human services, occupational therapy, rehabilitation services, deaf services, or low-vision services
2. Professional or personal experience with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or Autism

Wages, Benefits, and Schedule

1. Wages are paid once every two weeks.
2. DSP positions are considered non exempt from FLSA overtime regulations.
3. A complete description of benefits—including health, vacation, and sick leave—is contained in the SKILLS, Inc. Employee Handbook.