Direct Support Professional

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Job Type: Part-time

Department: Direct Support Services

Available Shift:

Monday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM and Saturdays 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Role:

Chestnut is located in Shorewood, MN and is home to an individual in his late 20's. This individual is non-verbal and is also diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The individual communicates his needs with non-verbal cues, vocalizations, or will lead staff to the area of what he is wanting at that time. Getting physical exercise is really important to him and he enjoys going out for walks in nature, around the lakes and parks, or inside at various shopping centers or stores. The individual thrives in his home when he is able to anticipate the structure of the day and enjoys following his daily outline which includes household tasks and leisure time at home, going out in the community or for a leisure drive. He enjoys the supportive team of staff who help him live his most purposeful and independent life possible. The areas of support this individual requires support and assistance with include but are not limited to toileting hygiene tasks, brief changes, bathing, teeth brushing, preparing meals from a list of options, assisting with independent living skills around the home such as loading the dishwasher, emptying the trash and laundry. Staff are also trained in de-escalation techniques to assist the individual when he is experiencing an increase in anxiety, agitation or aggression.

Job Summary:

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will be responsible for providing person-

centered support and care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Working within the Direct Support Services department, you will assist clients in

achieving their personal goals, fostering independence, and enhancing their quality of

life. Your primary objective will be to promote a safe, nurturing, and inclusive

environment for those in your care.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This role typically does not involve direct supervisory responsibilities. However, you may

be required to assist and guide support staff or volunteers during certain tasks or

activities.

Responsibilities:

● Personalized Support: Provide one-on-one assistance to individuals with daily

living activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, and medication

administration, while respecting their dignity and privacy.

● Individualized Goal Setting: Collaborate with clients, their families, and

interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans based on the

person's preferences, needs, and aspirations.

● Community Integration: Support clients in engaging with their local community

and participating in social, recreational, and vocational activities to enhance their

social skills and independence.

● Behavioral Support: Implement positive behavior management techniques and

strategies to address challenging behaviors and promote positive interactions.

● Health Monitoring: Monitor and report changes in clients' health status, ensuring

timely communication with healthcare professionals and appropriate

documentation.

● Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client progress,

daily activities, incidents, and any pertinent observations.

● Safety and Emergency Response: Ensure the safety and well-being of clients at

all times, including being prepared to handle emergency situations effectively.

● Advocacy: Advocate for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities,

supporting their inclusion and access to community resources and services.

● Training and Skill Development: Participate in ongoing training programs to

enhance your knowledge and skills in disability support, communication

techniques, and person-centered care.

Required Skills:

● Empathy and Compassion: Demonstrate genuine care and understanding for

individuals with disabilities and their unique challenges.

● Effective Communication: Possess excellent verbal and written communication

skills to interact with clients, families, and team members effectively.

● Patience and Flexibility: Adapt to varying needs and schedules of clients,

remaining patient and adaptable in different situations.

● Problem-Solving: Display critical thinking abilities to address challenges and find

solutions in a person-centered and positive manner.

● Collaborative Team Player: Work well in a team environment, collaborating with

other professionals, families, and caregivers to provide comprehensive support.

● Reliability and Punctuality: Demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility,

punctuality, and commitment to the client's well-being.

Physical Requirements:

● Ability to lift and carry objects up to a certain weight, assisting clients with

mobility when necessary.

● Standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods.

● Bending, stooping, and reaching to support and assist individuals with various

needs.

● Ability to perform CPR or other emergency procedures if required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $28.50 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Will you be able to reliably commute to Excelsior, MN for this job?
• Do you have experience as a Direct Support Professional?
• Are you able to work Mondays 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Saturdays 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Work Location: In person