Direct Support Professional

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for a variety of duties related to the overall care and support of individuals who have physical, developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. The DSP will support assisting the individual in increasing their independence and skill development by providing training and assistance on individualized goals and objectives for daily life skills (i.e., personal care, education, recreation, social and community engagement) in a supportive and positive learning environment. The DSP will provide or assist with personal care activities. The DSP will support the health, safety and an active lifestyle of the individual served.

Responsibilities

Implement individual treatment, education and behavioral plans; Ensure that all individuals remain actively engaged in meaningful activities according to their individual functional level; Record accurate and detailed documentation within required timeframes regarding each individual’s progress in meeting goals and objectives, personal care, behavior reports and health and safety; Maintain a safe and organized training area; Address challenging behaviors proactively and utilize positive behavior intervention; Assist individuals in educational/classroom, recreational, social and community activities; Monitor the health and safety of the individual; Respond to and report unsafe conditions, environment and equipment; Observe individuals for injury or bruises and follow incident reporting procedures; Assist individuals by providing for special health care and personal care needs; Evaluate the individual for changes in emotional and/or physical status; Ensure that each individuals’ rights are protected; Use person first language and treat individuals with dignity and respect; Dress appropriately and professionally; May provide transportation to individuals served; Complete annual training as required; Comply with all federal, state and local laws and regulations pertaining to Easterseals Arkansas

Requirements

Minimum High School diploma or General Education Degree (GED); Valid Arkansas Driver's License (if hired in a position where employee will drive); First Aid and CPR certification within the first 90 days of employment and maintained throughout employment; Ability to obtain additional credentials based on future organizational and/or regulatory requirements; Ability to lift and transfer individuals according to weight guidelines for lifting; Excellent interpersonal skills; Good organizational skills; Good written and verbal communication; Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively with individuals receiving services with diverse ability levels and employees with diverse experience and knowledge levels; Ability to be self-directed, creative and to take initiative; Demonstrated commitment to the values of diversity, equity, and inclusiveness

Nice to have

CNA license preferred