Lead Direct Support Professional

Overview
We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Lead Direct Support Professional to oversee and coordinate care for individuals with developmental disabilities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in group home and community care, assisted living, or long-term care environments. This leadership role involves guiding direct support staff, ensuring quality patient care, and implementing individualized care plans within a safe and supportive setting. The Lead Direct Support Professional plays a vital role in promoting independence, dignity, and well-being for residents while maintaining compliance with healthcare standards and regulations.

Duties

• Supervise and mentor other direct support staff to ensure high-quality care delivery.
• Assist residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility assistance. Personal care is a requirement for all staff.
• Administer medications per DDS Medication Administration guidelines and monitor vital signs in accordance with care plans and HIPAA regulations.
• Provide patient observation to identify changes in health status or behavior.
• Support residents with meal preparation, cooking, and nutritional needs while adhering to dietary restrictions.
• Operate assistive devices such as Hoyer lifts and perform heavy lifting when necessary to ensure resident safety.
• Ensure all staff maintain accurate documentation of care activities, medication administration, and incident reports.
• Implement individualized care plans tailored to each resident's needs, including dementia, Alzheimer's, autism, or memory care.
• Ensure a clean and safe environment by assisting with light cleaning duties as required.
• Participate in training Direct Care staff on proper care of individuals.
• Collaborate with doctors and healthcare professionals to monitor patient progress and adjust care strategies accordingly.
• Uphold confidentiality and compliance with all applicable regulations including HIPAA standards.
• Assist the Program Manager with filling any open shifts on the staff schedule.

Requirements

• Proven experience in group home settings, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, or home & community care environments.
• Strong knowledge of patient monitoring techniques, medication administration, and vital signs measurement.
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, autism spectrum disorder, or other special needs populations.
• Certifications such as CPR and First Aid are required.
• Ability to perform heavy lifting safely using equipment like Hoyer lifts when necessary. Ability to do patient transfers from bed to wheelchair and vise versa.
• Excellent communication skills for working effectively with residents, families, staff members, and healthcare providers.
• Knowledge of HIPAA regulations to ensure privacy and confidentiality of patient information.
• Compassionate attitude with patience for working with vulnerable populations requiring long-term or specialized care.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team in a fast-paced environment requiring attention to detail and adaptability. This role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals requiring dedicated support while advancing your career within the healthcare or social services field.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $21.94 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid orientation
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person