Job Description

SLS Direct Support Professional

Status: Full-time/Part-time, Non-exempt

Summary:

Supports individuals with developmental disabilities to have quality of life. Promotes the health, safety and well-being of clients. A SLS Support Staff serves as an advocate for our clients and will perform duties in accordance with the plan of services determined by the IPP process, the assessment, and in keeping with the policies and procedures of Lighthouse Living Services, Inc. Requires provision of support and instruction to facilitate the individual client's ability to live in his or her community in a residence of his or her choice.

Reports to: CSF or Program Director

Essential Duties:

provide direct services to clients who have behavioral issues in addition to developmental disabilities, are transitioning from residential facilities or from out of state to communities of their choice
work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team that may include behavioral, medical, and psychological health professionals to determine client needs and capacities through initial assessment
participate in development of a plan of services and supports to be delivered in response to client needs and capacities identified in the initial assessment
develop and maintain healthy working relationships with clients, their Circles of Support, and professional support teams
assist clients with management of medications and other health care needs, as detailed in the written IPP
assist the CSF in procuring and maintaining a place for the client to live that reflects the individual’s desires as to location, type of dwelling and their financial capability
assist with meal planning, including shopping, preparation and proper storage of food
assist with household organization and chores, as needed

Include the following (other duties may be assigned):

lift and/or transfer individuals, as needed
assist clients with mobility training and/or use of public transportation
assist client in managing financial affairs along with the individual’s (if needed) payee service
assist the CSF and the client in managing other paid supports, including IHSS
apply crisis prevention, intervention, and/or management strategies as directed by behavioral and/or mental health professional team members
participate in regular team and staff meetings
instruct, and assist with, tasks of daily living (including grooming, bathing, personal hygiene, toileting, and feeding) as needed by clients

assist clients to make effective life decisions that are based on clients’ personal wants and needs, with these decisions culminating in increasing their independence, self-reliance and self-esteem
as a mandated reporter, report any incidents or evidence of abuse or violation of clients’ rights to CSF or Program Director
ensure that any significant changes in the clients’ needs and preferences (as stated in the IPP) are constantly supported
minimize any threats to the clients’ health, safety and welfare
maintain accurate and up-to-date daily logs for each client for use in generating and submitting regular progress reports; regularly update and communicate with team members about clients and any changes in behavior
assist the client in sustaining a community-oriented life, accessing generic and natural supports
other duties as assigned by CSF or Program Director

The duties described above are not inclusive. Additional duties may be required from time to time due to the need to respond to clients and to remain competitive in the marketplace.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The Program Supervisor is frequently required to walk, sit, stand, drive and use hands to type, write reports, paperwork, etc. Specifically writing, using a computer, calculator, telephone, etc. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The normal environment is the client's residence. While performing the duties of this position, the employee may be required to work, walk and drive in a variety of seasonal weather conditions associated with the locality. May also be required to work in clients' residences, which have varying conditions, including those that might not be hygienic or sanitary.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and consistently. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience:

Have completed at least one year of post-high school education
At least 6 months' experience and/or training on working with clients with developmental disabilities

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business documents, written reports
Understanding of Company policies and regulations
Ability to write and correct/edit reports, and business correspondence as needed
Ability to present written information accurately and effectively, with minimal to zero errors
Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure
Ability to calculate figures and amounts
Effective verbal communication with others
Ability to choose and use language appropriately
Effective and appropriate presentation of self on the telephone and in-person

Basic Language, Math and Communication Skills:

Be at least 18 years of age
Be able to perform the functions required in the service design.
Demonstrated dependability and personal integrity
Problem solving
One-on-one instruction
Strong organizational and administrative skills
Ability to type effectively
Familiar with PC applications
Ability to learn new applications, policies and procedures
Ability to work a flexible schedule including evening and weekend work
Successful background check
Valid CPR/First Aid certification
Valid California Driver’s License.
Valid DMV Driving Record
Reliable transportation
Ability to occasionally lift up to 10 pounds

Other Skills, Abilites and Requirements:

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