Direct Support Professional I

POSITION DESCRIPTION: This position works alongside individuals who choose to or are working towards living independently. It includes assisting individuals with personal care needs as well as achieving their personal goals through learning skills and participating in activities of their choice. CRITICAL JOB FUNCTIONS Possesses the professional skills and abilities specific to the technical aspects of the position. PROVIDE SUPPORTS - Participate alongside individuals offering assistance and support in a variety of personal care needs, including those related to health and hygiene, maintenance of household, healthy eating, health related appointments and instructions, including medication, financial systems, and shopping. - Understand and use Emergency Response System appropriately. IMPLEMENT SERVICE PLANS - Promote BI’s philosophy of competency, self-advocacy and independence - Understanding and adherence to any individualized service plans, including medical or behavioral - Participate in meetings with the interdisciplinary team/circle of support as requested. KEEP RECORDS AND WRITE REPORTS - Ensure correct data entry and accuracy of all time and attendance and work records - Submit accurate reports as required by supervisor. TRANSPORTATION OF PERSONS SERVED - Transport individuals as needed which may include assistance with public and/or para transportation services. - Ensure inspection and cleanliness of the vehicle before/after each use. DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN EFFECTIVE RELATIONSHIPS - Assist individuals in establishing and maintaining social connections with persons of their choosing, with a focus on reducing relationships with paid supports. - Support and participate alongside individuals in community events and activities. - Develop and maintain effective relationships with persons served (to include their family and friends), peers, supervisors and other staff, affiliated agency staff, and members of the community. OTHER - Provide support as a Direct Support Professional working in any BI program including but not limited to, providing in-home care, transportation and in-community services for persons served. - Executes position specific job duties and other duties as assigned at the discretion of BI. CANDIDATE SHOULD POSSESS THE FOLLOWING SKILLS Organized: Able to perform job duties with efficiency and accuracy Dependable: Can be relied upon; trustworthy, responsible, punctual. Good Judgement: Chooses courses of action that result in beneficial outcomes to the agency and the community Positive Attitude: Has an overall positive, open and supportive attitude Interpersonal Relations: Is able to relate well to others Communication: Is an effective listener, communicates well both verbally and in writing Initiative: Is a self-starter Philosophical Commitment: Demonstrates commitment to BI’s established culture of dignity and respect. QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS EDUCATION: High School diploma or GED preferred. EXPERIENCE: Previous experience working with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities is desirable. Good customer service skills and an interest in helping others pursue and achieve their best life is required. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: - A physical condition that will permit frequent bending, turning, and lifting without injury - Ability to walk and stand for prolonged periods of time. - Ability to assist individuals in wheelchairs. - Provide personal care to individuals served including assistance in the restroom and feeding. - Lift at least 40 pounds. - Clearance of pre-employment Functional Capacity Evaluation with no restrictions that cannot be reasonably accommodated without undue hardship. MAY REQUIRE ONE OR ALL: - Valid California driver’s license - Insured, dependable vehicle - First Aid and CPR certification - Criminal Record Clearance