Direct Support Professional (69475)

Volunteers of America is a non-profit organization operating in Western Washington for over 125 years. Our Christian roots drive us to put our faith into action for the benefit of every member of the community. We celebrate our unique perspectives that allow us to better serve and uplift our community – and each other

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work directly with adults with developmental disabilities in a residential setting and assist clients with activities of daily living. DSPs provide support and training to the program participants by assisting them in the core service areas of health and safety, personal power and choice, positive recognition by self and others, community integration, constructive relationships, and building skill competence.

Principal Activities

- Support clients to help achieve their PCSP and IISP goals and objectives, collect and record data in accordance with department guidelines.

- Instruct and support clients in daily living skills, basic health and hygiene needs, meal preparation, leisure activities, community living and integration skills, caring for their pets (where applicable), and ensure all related tasks are being completed daily.

- Observe and monitor clients and document their activities and any incidents or difficulties on appropriate forms per program guidelines and client plans. Report any changes (mental, physical, emotional, or behavioral) to appropriate personnel and document it in client records accordingly.

- Support clients by providing transportation access around the community and accompany clients to recreational activities, doctor appointments, IISP goal outings or work.

- Work alone with clients who may exhibit challenging or aggressive behavior and use appropriate training and de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and supportive environment.

- Assist clients with money skills and purchases/shopping.

- Support clients with medications in accordance with individual plans, RND instructions and physicians order, and promptly report any medication or treatment difficulties to the supervisor.

- Peri-care and assistance with personal grooming as needed.

- Attend regular state and agency mandated trainings as scheduled and stay current on all trainings.

- Attend and participate in monthly staff meetings.

- Maintain excellent communication with other staff and Program Manager regarding all aspects of client care, household operations, personnel, and VOA/DS business.

- Appropriately maintain professional caring relationships with the clients while preserving healthy professional boundaries.

Benefits

We believe that taking care of our team is essential to fulfilling our mission. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being as a full-time employee.

- Vacation and Sick Time : Vacation up to 200 hours, Sick time up to 108.64 hours

- Competitive compensation

- Holidays: 9 paid per year + 2 paid floating holidays

- Medical, Dental, and Vision

- Health Savings Account (HSA)

- Flexible Savings Account (FSA) medical & dependent care

- Free Employee Assistance program

- 403(b) Retirement Plan matching

- Professional Development opportunities

Qualifications

Were looking for candidates who bring the skills, experience, and qualifications needed to succeed in the role and contribute to our team.

- At least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED.

- Ability to read and understand program requirements and perform required documentation.

- Required to obtain an NAR, CNA, or HCA credential within 120 days of employment.

- Must attend all scheduled training and complete LTC certification within 120 days of employment.

- Remain in compliance with Continuing Education requirements annually.

- Possess a current Washington State drivers license and the ability to transport clients in an agency provided vehicle.

- Ability to attend and pass agency driver training.

- Have and maintain an acceptable background check record per WAC 388-101D-0070 guidelines.

- Basic computer and internet skills.

- Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

- Ability to stand for extended periods of time.

- Ability to physically assist some clients when transferring, bathing, toileting, and ambulating. Staff may need to physically lift or steady clients using approved methods.

- Required to consent to drug or alcohol testing in the case of an automobile accident or reasonable suspicion.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all employment-related decisions are made without consideration of individuals race, sex, age, national origin, disability status or any other protected characteristic.

#voaww3