Direct Support Professional in Middletown, New York at Independent Living Inc

Title: Direct Support Professional

Position Type: Part-time, Non-exempt

Reports to: Community Habilitation Coordinator

Base Location: Middletown

About Independent Living, Inc.

Since 1987, Independent Living Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities in the Hudson Valley, of New York. Following the traditional independent living (IL) model, the majority of ILI’s board and staff are individuals with disabilities and use personal, lived experience to support others in the community – turning perceived deficits into assets.

Why Work with Us?

• Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to building a barrier-free society and supporting independent living
• Be part of a collaborative workplace that embraces diversity and innovation, where every team member’s voice and lived experience are respected and valued
• Be part of an organization that champions inclusive hiring practices and actively welcomes individuals of all abilities, recognizing the value of both visible and non-visible disabilities
• Be part of a supportive team that values lived experience, empathy, and person-centered care
• Gain hands-on experience helping individuals build independence and meaningful connections in their communities

About the Role

The Direct Support Professional supports individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving greater independence by working toward their personalized goals in community-based settings. This role involves direct engagement, skill-building, and advocacy to help participants live meaningful and self-directed lives.

The Direct Support Professional works closely with participants, families, and interdisciplinary teams to implement individualized service plans while ensuring a safe, respectful, and empowering environment.

What You’ll Do

• Provide safe transportation for participants, including those who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices
• Implement each participant’s Staff Action Plan in collaboration with the individual, their family, and service team
• Support participants in achieving valued outcomes (goals) through structured and community-based activities
• Encourage active participation by adapting activities to meet individual needs and abilities
• Assist participants in building life skills and increasing independence in community settings
• Mediate and resolve issues that arise during daily activities in a professional and diplomatic manner
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of participants and their families, responding appropriately
• Document services by entering progress notes in the AWARDS database in a timely and accurate manner
• Complete all required daily and monthly documentation in compliance with program regulations (OPWDD and HVDDSO)
• Participate in required trainings, including OPWDD and agency-specific training and annual refreshers
• Collaborate with the Community Habilitation Coordinator and team members to ensure services align with participant preferences and goals
• Provide input into the development and modification of participant goals and action plans

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• Valid New York State driver’s license with a clean driving record and proof of auto insurance
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Knowledge of community resources
• First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Dependability, flexibility, and a positive, person-centered approach

It Would Be a Plus If You Also Have

• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities (strongly preferred)
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Bilingual (Spanish-speaking) skills
• Experience with electronic documentation systems (e.g., AWARDS/Foothold)
• Familiarity with OPWDD services and regulations

Success in This Role Will Be Demonstrated Through

• Consistent progress made by participants toward their individualized goals
• Accurate, timely, and compliant documentation of services
• Positive feedback from participants, families, and team members
• Effective adaptation of activities to meet participant needs and preferences
• Strong collaboration with team members and supervisors
• Reliable and safe transportation and support during community activities
• Demonstrated ability to foster independence and skill development in participants

Benefits available to you include

• New York State Paid Sick Leave

ILI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law.

If you require reasonable accommodation to support the application process, please contact Latoya Merricks at (845) 674-7752.

To apply, visit us at https://www.myindependentliving.org/careers/