Group Supported Employment Lead - FT

Direct Support Lead is responsible for providing programmatic assistance to both the Direct Support Professional and the program individuals. The Lead ensures the individuals experience valued roles in the community and enrich the individuals’ quality of life through training, instruction, and inclusion techniques. The Lead will also provide supervisory support as directed by the supervisor or director. He/She will adhere to the policies established by The Arc Eastern Connecticut, Inc. Board of Directors whose goal is to maintain full community inclusion and integration for all individuals who are supported by the Arc.

Schedule:

Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm

Location:

Woodstock, CT

Essential Functions:

• Promotes empowering and engaged supports that models appropriate and mission-based interactions.
• Supports the supervisors and the director in ensuring that the health, safety, and well-being of the individuals is maintained, aiding the Direct Support Professional as needed.
• Provides supervisory support in the absence of the director and the supervisors.
• Provides individualized supports, services, and advocacy to persons with intellectual and other related developmental disabilities to help facilitate their full participation and inclusion in the community.
• Assists individuals in community, social and leisure activities, daily living skills, recreation, and other identified skill areas.
• Adapts activities to maximize the individual’s potential.
• Assists individuals with daily living tasks including, but not limited to: dressing, toileting, and dining.
• Ensures the safety of all individuals including the proper use of equipment, facilities, and vehicles.
• Reports all accidents and incidents immediately to their supervisor.
• Provides incident reports according to DDS and Arc safety policies and procedures.
• Assists in coordinating transportation for individuals utilizing personal vehicles, The Arc Eastern Connecticut vehicles, and/or arranges transportation utilizing community resources.
• Teaches life skills to program individuals as needed.
• Develops, implements, and maintains neat, accurate, and comprehensive daily records including annual reviews, service plans, and approved behavioral programs.
• Transfers and lifts individuals as needed.
• Deescalates an individual’s behaviors according to DDS policies and procedures (may be required to complete this task without assistance).
• Assists in the cleaning and maintenance of Arc facilities and vehicles.
• Assists in the upkeep of documentation.
• Periodically reviews information in master files and correctly files documents.
• Helps implement components of the Person-Centered Plan including behaviors supports, programs, and appropriate documentation.
• Other duties may be designated to maintain service quality.

Expectations:

• • Demonstrates a positive work ethic.
  • Works with limited supervision.
  • Ensures confidentiality as required by HIPAA policies.
  • Advocates for and protects program individuals’ rights in accordance with Arc policies and procedures.
  • Treats all individuals in an age-appropriate manner, with respect and dignity, and to encourage opportunities that promote choice.
  • Maintains a professional and positive attitude when dealing with program individuals, staff, families, the public, and outside representatives.
  • Works with a spirit of cooperation with all departments.
  • Carries out all job responsibilities in a professional manner.
  • Attends all agency staff meetings and training sessions.
  • Keeps their required trainings up to date.
  • Maintains attendance.
  • Adheres to policies on attendance, days of absence, and illness.
  • Keeps supervisor informed of any significant events or the need to modify any area of the operation/activity.
  • Serves as a positive and appropriate role model for program individuals.
  • Provides advocacy for individuals based on their personal choice and their individual plan.
  • Develops and maintains positive relationships with individuals, their families, and providers.
  • Responds to needs of individuals, families, and providers in a timely and professional manner.
  • Possesses a valid driver’s license, privately owned vehicle, and evidence of insurance.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED (General Equivalency Diploma) required.
• Minimum one year experience in the health/human services field preferred.
• The Lead must have a valid driver’s license. This license must be maintained for the duration of employment. He/She will be required to obtain and maintain CPR, PMT, First Aid, and other pertinent certifications throughout the duration of their employment. In addition, he/she may be required to obtain medication certification.
• The Lead must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds. He/She will be required to participate in lifts, transfers, and behavioral or physical intervention when necessary. He/She may be exposed to risk of injury or exposure to occupational health hazards.