Job Description - Direct Support Specialist
About Confidence
We at Confidence believe that giving the people we serve the best care they deserve is our number one objective. By creating spaces where our employees feel accepted and valued members of the mission, we work hard to ensure CHR is an atmosphere centering acceptance that allows employees to do their best job in supporting the people we serve people of varying abilities and support needs can come in and get required wrap around services in a way that’s financially accessible to them.
Started in 2004, Confidence Health Resources consistently strives to be a hub where Nevadans with disabilities are supported in meeting their health care needs. We aim to be the number one in this industry when it comes to person centered care by choosing the right professionals and encouraging them within a culture that embodies respect, confidence, quality care and dignity for every member of staff and every individual we serve.
About the Position
Reporting to the Lead Direct Support Specialist (or Case Manager/QIPD in the case that home does not have a Lead), Direct Support Specialists provide coaching and support to the individuals who live in the 24 hour Supported Living Arrangements (SLAs) that Confidence operates. The DSS will ensure the smooth operation, coordination, and administration of key policies and procedures for Confidence Health Resources. This is an hourly position with both full time and part time options.
Responsibilities
The Direct Support Specialist (DSS) will be responsible for
- Providing meaningful and functional activity based programming as mapped out via each individual’s support plan. In other words, the DSS implements a program plan as written and agreed upon by the support team for each individual in the home they are assigned to work.
- Ensuring a safe, organized clean environment that is conducive to living and learning
- Working with the Lead Direct Support Specialist (or Case Manager/QIPD in lieu of this role being filled in a given home) in collaboration with fellow DSS staff to address any concerns related to health and welfare of the individuals served as they arise.
- Demonstrating values such as respect and dignity to the individuals and fellow coworkers.
- Communicating and completing all required documentation for individual program plans, reportable events and incidents, meeting established deadlines.
- Ensuring necessary resources - food, water, medications , etc. - are available and that the individuals are fed nutritious meals as their program plans indicate.
- Supervising community outings according to the needs of individuals as outlined with their established programs.
- Providing behavioral support consistent with behavioral management support and document appropriately.
- Ensuring ultimate health and safety by scheduling, organizing and providing transportation to doctor’s offices for wellness checks and follow ups aimed at accomplishing satisfactory care.
- Serving as front line teachers in skill acquisition and document progress as required.
- Other duties as assigned within the scope of this position as allowed by law.
Experience
- Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Previous caregiving experience preferred
- Previous housekeeping/customer service experience preferred but not required
Physical Requirements
Depending on the home and the mobility of certain individuals, may be required to help lift as it pertains to job functions such as helping individuals in and out of mobility devices, changing diapers, bathing, etc.
Work Environment
DSS staff work in home-based workplaces where the individuals live. Shifts include day shift and night shift ranging from 8 hours to 12 hours long. Reliable transportation is required.
Travel
There is some travel expected in the form of trips to doctor offices, grocery shopping, recreational activities, errands on behalf of the individuals, and office training as they arise.
Compensation
The hourly wage for this position ranges from $14-16/hr and commensurate with experience. Benefits include:
- 75% employer paid health insurance
- 50% employer paid dental insurance
- Employer paid trainings and certification classes to maintain compliance with relevant State and regional agencies
- Short term disability coverage
- Gas allowance (for qualifying employees)
- Ability to request up to 6 weeks of vacation a year (currently unpaid)
- End of year Winter Bonus pay
Equal Opportunity Employer
Confidence Health Resources is an equal opportunity employer and a fierce advocate for equity in the workplace. We value diversity in all its forms and aim to create an inclusive culture. Confidence Health Resources encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, ancestry, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, hair texture, or other status protected by law.