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Direct Support Professional

This job is no longer available

Santa Rosa, CA, USA
Full-time

This position assists individuals in exploring, obtaining and retaining job, volunteer, and educational opportunities and/or instruction and support with daily living skills, with adults who live independently or in a family home. All services are provided in-person and/or virtually.

 

Areas of Responsibility: 

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.

  • Support and participate alongside individuals in vocational, volunteer, and other meaningful household and community activities that align with the organization’s philosophy.

  • Coordinate instruction and support to promote skill development and independence and in some situations. With providing personal care.

  • Assist individuals in advocating for their needs while providing assistance and support in various tasks vital to living and working in the community. 

  • Identify barriers to employment; assist individuals in resolving and mitigating barriers; offer potential solutions and supportive services,

  • Coordinate instruction and support to facilitate acquisition of independent living skills.

  • Research opportunities that support the person’s interests in work, recreation, post-secondary education and community and facilitate participation in activities of their choosing.

  • Provide services related to post-secondary education including exploration, facilitating the enrollment and financial aid processes, and other educational related supports

  • Understand and use the Emergency Response System appropriately.

DEVELOP AND 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.

  • Participate in developing and implementing instructional and behavioral plans.

  • Conduct interviews and assessments in preparation for service plan development.

  • Schedule, coordinate, and participate in team planning meetings as requested.

  • Conduct interviews and assessments in preparation for service plan development.

  • Participate in developing and implementing instructional and support plans based on the person’s objectives.

  • Maintain progress records, ensuring accuracy; write and submit reports as per established procedures. 

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.

  • Maintain individual progress records; write and submit accurate reports as per procedures.

TRANSPORTATION OF PERSONS SERVED

  • Transport persons served as needed.  This will frequently be a personal vehicle but may include the operation of BI vehicles or riding public transportation. Follow all inspection/cleanliness of vehicle requirements. 

  • Transport individuals as needed which may include assistance with public and/or para transportation services.

DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN RELATIONSHIPS

  • Assist individuals in establishing and maintaining social connections with persons of their choosing, and the individual’s circle of support, with a focus on reducing relationships with paid supports, as requested by the individual.

  • 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.

  • Schedule, coordinate, attend, actively engage, and participate in weekly staff planning meetings, training sessions, and other relevant meetings.

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.

Educational Background: 
High school diploma or equivalent is required
Skills/Experience: 

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 Judgment: 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: Excellent verbal/written communication skills in English, is able to comprehend and follow direction, as well as be an effective listener.

Initiative: Is a self-starter

Philosophical Commitment: Demonstrates commitment to BI’s established culture of dignity and respect. 


 

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION:  

High school diploma or equivalent is required; College coursework in Special Education, Rehabilitation, Psychology or a closely related field is preferred.

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 goals is required. 

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 goals is required. Must be able to speak, read, write, and understand the primary language used in the workplace (English).

SPECIAL SKILLS:  

The ability to provide job training, supervision, and interpersonal skills to assist individuals to rely on natural support in the workplaces. Ability to negotiate and coordinate work-related issues with employers. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • A physical condition that permits frequent bending, turning, and lifting without injury

  • Ability to operate a vehicle for a portion of your shift

  • Ability to walk and stand for prolonged periods of time

  • Ability to assist individuals in wheelchairs

  • Provide personal care as needed 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

  • Proof of current auto insurance

  • On Duty Meal Period Waiver

  • First Aid and CPR certification

  • Criminal Record Clearance

Compensation/Benefits: 

$19-20 /hour

*Benefit eligible if working an average of 30+ hours per week

Organization Info

Becoming Independent

Overview
Headquarters: 
Santa Rosa, California, USA
Annual Budget : 
$10-50M
Size: 
51-200 employees
Founded: 
1967
About Us
Areas of Focus: 
Mission: 

Becoming Independent (BI) helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live meaningful and productive lives. We are a nonprofit community benefit organization serving the North Bay with a purpose to elevate human abilities for the mutual benefit of our community. Our core values of human dignity, empowerment, integrity, community and innovation are at the heart of our vision – a community of innovative partnerships, fostering authentic human connections.

Programs: 

Each year thousands of individuals walk through our doors and are welcomed with opportunities to be productive and engaged community members through three strategic initiatives: Education, Employment, and Supported Living.

Awards & Accolades: 
Best Places to Work | 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2011, 2010 & 2009
2022 Social Impact Women to Watch
2020 Moving Mountains Award
2020 Jefferson Award
Why Work For Us?: 

Meaningful change is happening. Be a part of it.

We want difference makers to grow and connect through the fulfilling work that Becoming Independent offers for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Those who join our organization will discover a united team of supportive and enthusiastic individuals who will help instill the skills and experience that benefit their growing career.

Photos
Connect With Us

Listing Stats

Post Date: 
Oct 30 2023
Active Until: 
Nov 30 2023
Hiring Organization: 
Becoming Independent
industry: 
Nonprofit