Direct Support Professional (69367)

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