Direct Support Professional
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeOn-site
location_on1129, Bunkerhill Place, Lincoln Village, Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, 46825, United States
About the Role
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) at Easterseals Arc of NE IN work directly with individuals who have intellectual or developmental disabilities. The core mission is to help these individuals become more integrated into their communities by maximizing their unique strengths, interests, and abilities. The goal is to empower each person to direct their own activities, creating a meaningful life that includes employment, active citizenship, and the development of personal relationships.
Support occurs in a variety of settings and involves a holistic approach to daily living. DSPs assist with personal care, teach and develop new skills, advocate for the individual's needs, and support communication and self-expression. The role is dynamic, requiring flexibility to adjust to changing needs, activities, and locations, often in fast-paced environments with interruptions and deadlines.
Working Conditions & Environment
DSPs must be prepared for a physically demanding role that may involve transferring individuals, lifting up to 75 lbs, and standing or walking for extended periods. The environment may require tolerance for tobacco smoke or pet dander depending on the individual being supported. Staff may also encounter challenging behaviors and must be prepared to respond to emergencies, including accidents, fires, or situations involving potential physical harm.
A valid driver's license, an insured vehicle in good working order, and a safe driving record are essential, as the role includes providing incidental transportation to and from community activities.
Hiring Process & Application
Candidates must be at least 18 years old and pass criminal and registry background checks. The position requires a valid driver's license and an insured vehicle. While a High School diploma or GED is preferred, the agency values the willingness to learn and support individuals with challenging behaviors or medical concerns.
Selected candidates will be expected to complete required trainings, including CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, and Positive Behavioral Support Training, by established deadlines.
Our Commitment to Diversity
Easterseals Arc of NE IN is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Affirmative Action Employer. We encourage applications from women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We are committed to maintaining a workplace that honors individual rights, treats everyone with dignity, and upholds strict confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA, State, and Federal laws.
Work location
Work model: On-site
1129, Bunkerhill Place, Lincoln Village, Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, 46825, United States
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Key Responsibilities
- check_circleSupport individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities in daily living activities and personal care
- check_circleTeach appropriate skills and encourage individuals to make choices for a meaningful life
- check_circleRespond to emergencies and use positive behavioral techniques to ensure safety and dignity
- check_circleMentor and train new staff to maintain a positive and productive workplace environment
- check_circleMaintain confidentiality of records and adhere to HIPAA, state, and federal laws
- check_circleImplement individual support plans and document progress, goals, and activities accurately
- check_circleAssist individuals in developing skills, finding employment, and engaging in community citizenship
- check_circleMonitor medical conditions, assist with medications, and notify supervisors of health concerns
Requirements
- verifiedAt least 18 years of age
- verifiedHigh School diploma or GED preferred
- verified1 year experience working with individuals with autism and developmental disabilities preferred
- verifiedAbility to pass criminal/registry background checks
- verifiedValid driver's license, insured vehicle, and safe driving record
- verifiedBasic language, written and computer skills
- verifiedAbility to pass required trainings (CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, Positive Behavioral Support)
Nice to Have
High School diploma or GED. Experience working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities (prefer 1 year).
Similar Job Opportunities
Skills, education and keywords
Skills: CPR, First Aid, Medication Administration, Positive Behavioral Support Training, Hipaa.
Education: High School diploma or GED preferred.
Frequently asked questions about Direct Support Professional at Easterseals Northeast Indiana
What does a Direct Support Professional at Easterseals Northeast Indiana do?expand_more
A Direct Support Professional at Easterseals Northeast Indiana is responsible for the following: Support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities in daily living activities and personal care; Teach appropriate skills and encourage individuals to make choices for a meaningful life; Respond to emergencies and use positive behavioral techniques to ensure safety and dignity; and Mentor and train new staff to maintain a positive and productive workplace environment.
What are the requirements for this Direct Support Professional role?expand_more
Easterseals Northeast Indiana is looking for candidates who meet the following requirements: At least 18 years of age; High School diploma or GED preferred; 1 year experience working with individuals with autism and developmental disabilities preferred; Ability to pass criminal/registry background checks; Valid driver's license, insured vehicle, and safe driving record; and Basic language, written and computer skills.
Where is the Direct Support Professional role at Easterseals Northeast Indiana located?expand_more
Direct Support Professional at Easterseals Northeast Indiana is based in 1129, Bunkerhill Place, Lincoln Village, Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, 46825, United States. This is a on-site role.
Is this Direct Support Professional job remote, hybrid, or on-site?expand_more
Easterseals Northeast Indiana has listed this Direct Support Professional role as on-site.
How much experience is required for this Direct Support Professional role?expand_more
Direct Support Professional at Easterseals Northeast Indiana typically requires 1+ years of relevant experience at the entry level level.
What skills do you need for the Direct Support Professional role at Easterseals Northeast Indiana?expand_more
Key skills for Direct Support Professional at Easterseals Northeast Indiana include CPR; First Aid; Medication Administration; Positive Behavioral Support Training; and Hipaa.
What education is required for Direct Support Professional at Easterseals Northeast Indiana?expand_more
Educational requirements for this role: High School diploma or GED preferred.
What category does the Direct Support Professional role belong to?expand_more
Direct Support Professional at Easterseals Northeast Indiana is part of the social work job category on Recrutus.