DSP for Personal Supports

About Benedictine

For more than 65 years, Benedictine has empowered children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their greatest potential through education, meaningful experiences, and lifelong support. Located on Maryland's Eastern Shore, Benedictine provides a continuum of services through its school, residential, and community-based programs. Our Ridgely campus offers a supportive and enriching environment where students can learn, grow, and thrive, while our group homes and adult services programs promote independence, community engagement, and quality of life for adults across the region. Through individualized supports and person-centered services, Benedictine is committed to helping each person reach their full potential.

Job Description

The Personal Supports Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides individualized support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and throughout the community. DSPs assist individuals with daily living skills, personal care, community participation, and achieving goals identified in their Person-Centered Plan (PCP). This position promotes independence, self-advocacy, choice, and inclusion while supporting each person in living a meaningful and self-directed life.

Available Shifts

Schedules vary based on the needs, preferences, and activities of the individuals supported. Current shifts may include:

• Monday – Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
• Monday – Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
• Monday – Friday: 12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (as needed for medical appointments and individual support)
• Monday – Friday: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. or 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: Hours vary and may range from 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or 9:00 p.m.

Schedules are individualized and may change based on each person's support needs, appointments, community activities, and program requirements. Additional shifts may become available as services expand.

Essential Duties

• Implement and support each individual's Person-Centered Plan (PCP) to promote independence, community integration, and personal growth.
• Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, household responsibilities, shopping, transportation, and community participation.
• Support individuals in building independent living skills and achieving goals related to community integration, employment, and personal development.
• Attend Person-Centered Plan (PCP) meetings and collaborate with the individual and their support team to develop and implement meaningful goals.
• Follow the direction and preferences of the individual supported while collaborating with their interdisciplinary team and coordinator to ensure services are delivered in accordance with their Person-Centered Plan.
• Administer medications and provide first aid in accordance with Delegating Nurse guidelines and Med Tech certification requirements.
• Monitor and communicate changes in health, behavior, or support needs with the appropriate members of the support team.
• Provide transportation to medical appointments, employment, recreational activities, shopping, and other community destinations as needed.
• Maintain accurate documentation, including daily notes, progress documentation, medication records, incident reports, and other required records.
• Encourage positive relationships with family members, employers, peers, and community members while promoting self-advocacy, informed choice, and community inclusion.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment while respecting each individual's rights, dignity, and personal preferences.
• Attend required trainings and maintain certifications necessary to perform job responsibilities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications

• Must possess a High School Diploma or GED.
• Med Tech certification required or ability to obtain certification upon hire.
• Previous experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred. Experience as a CNA, GNA, or Direct Support Professional is a plus.
• Must possess excellent written and verbal communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Must demonstrate professionalism, flexibility, and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with individuals, families, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Must be a minimum of 18 years old.
• Must provide proof of authorization to work in the U.S.
• Must pass pre-employment drug screening, criminal background checks (CJIS/Family Law Article 5-561), and CPS clearance.
• Must possess a valid driver's license in good standing and meet insurability requirements.
• Must be able to perform Safety-Care physical interventions, except for approved temporary or minimal restrictions authorized by the Behavior Department.
• Must demonstrate a commitment to Benedictine's mission and values.

Benefits

As a member of the Benedictine team, you'll enjoy:

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits, plus employer-matched 403(b) retirement contributions.
• Professional development opportunities, including career advancement pathways, tuition reimbursement, student loan repayment, and education assistance.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave benefits.

Work Location

In person; community-based settings and individuals' homes throughout the service area.

Pay: $17.00 per hour

License/Certification:

• drivers license (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17