Job Details

Position Overview:
The Residential Habilitation Direct Service Staff, also known as Residential Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), are compassionate and dedicated individuals responsible for providing personalized care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities residing in residential group homes or community-based settings. The primary objective of this role is to enhance the quality of life for the individuals under their care, promoting independence, fostering community integration, and ensuring their safety and well-being.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Personalized Support: Deliver individualized support based on the unique needs, abilities, and preferences of each resident. Assist with daily living activities, such as bathing, grooming, dressing, meal preparation, medication administration, and mobility.

2. Residential Care: Create a warm and nurturing home environment by maintaining cleanliness and organization within the residential setting. Foster a sense of belonging and ensure a comfortable living space for all residents.

3. Life Skills Training: Implement and teach life skills to enhance the residents' independence and self-sufficiency. Skills may include cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and social interaction.

4. Community Integration: Organize and participate in community outings, social activities, and recreational events to promote residents' participation in their community and foster social connections.

5. Behavioral Support: Utilize positive behavioral support techniques to manage challenging behaviors and promote positive outcomes. Collaborate with behavioral specialists, supervisors, and support teams to implement behavior plans effectively.

6. Health Monitoring: Monitor and document residents' health status regularly, ensuring any medical concerns are promptly reported to appropriate healthcare professionals.

7. Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate and detailed records of resident progress, daily activities, incidents, and any other necessary documentation in accordance with agency guidelines.

8. Emergency Response: Be prepared to handle emergency situations effectively, following established protocols and ensuring the safety of residents.

9. Advocacy: Be an advocate for the rights and preferences of the individuals in care, promoting their dignity, self-determination, and inclusion in decision-making processes.

10. Training and Professional Development: Participate in ongoing training sessions and workshops to enhance knowledge and skills in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

11. Collaboration: Work closely with other team members, including supervisors, nurses, therapists, and case managers, to ensure a holistic and comprehensive approach to care.

• Qualifications and Requirements:
  - High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or certification in relevant fields (e.g., Human Services, Psychology, Social Work) is desirable.
  - Experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is advantageous but not mandatory.
  - Strong communication and interpersonal skills to establish positive relationships with residents, colleagues, and families.
  - Empathetic, patient, and understanding demeanor to provide compassionate care and support.
  - Ability to adapt to changing circumstances, multitask, and remain calm in challenging situations.
  - Physical ability to assist with lifting, transferring, and supporting individuals with mobility challenges.
  - Flexibility in work schedule to accommodate shift work, weekends, and holidays as required.
  - Possession of a valid driver's license and a good driving record may be necessary, depending on the job requirements.
  - Clear criminal background check and child abuse clearance, as mandated by state regulations.

Working Conditions:
The Residential Habilitation Direct Service Staff primarily work in residential group homes or community-based settings. The job may involve standing, bending, and lifting to assist residents. The role might also require occasional participation in community outings and activities. The work schedule may vary, including evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts.

**Note:** This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It does not encompass all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications that may be required of the employee.