Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country seeks individuals with professionalism and heart to fulfill the role of Direct Support Professional (DSP) in our Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRAs). The IRA is a group home to 3 – 6 people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The DSP works within the residence to provide individualized personal care, mentorship, support, and a sense of stability and security to the individuals who call the residence home. Services may include assisting with personal care, assisting with daily living skills, transporting individuals to appointments or accompanying them to participate in community activities, dispensing medication (after additional training and certification), ensuring safety, providing a friendly ear and emotional support, assisting with residence cleaning and upkeep, and completing required documentation, to name a few.

We have locations in Canton, Potsdam, Edwardsville (Hammond), Massena, Norwood, and Colton.

**We are currently hiring in Massena for full-time (40 hours per week, benefit-eligible) dayshift, or PT (30 hours per week, benefit eligible) overnights. We are also hiring for full-time and part-time positions across all shifts in our Norwood locations.**

REPORTS TO: House Manager

RATE OF PAY: $18.90/hour; biweekly pay structure

SIGN-ON BONUS DETAILS: Sign-on bonuses are paid as follows for Direct Support Professional positions:

• a full-time (40 hours per week, benefit-eligible) day shift$500 for per diem status (less than 30 hours per week)
• $750 for part-time status (30 - 37 hours per week)
• $1,000 for full-time status (37.5 - 40 hours per week)

Sign-on bonuses are divided into four equal payments, paid out at three, six, nine, and 12 months of employment.

WORK SCHEDULE: This varies based on the needs of the agency and the individuals that we support. Opportunities are available across day, evening, and overnight shifts, including full-time, part-time, and per diem schedules.

POSITION SUMMARY: The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities living in Individual Residential Alternatives (IRAs). The DSP helps individuals achieve their personal goals, maintain their health and safety, and build independence, dignity, and inclusion in daily life, while fostering a supportive and respectful environment.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Responsible for ensuring the health and safety of individuals at all times.

a. Provides appropriate personal care, support, and supervision.

b. Follows health care treatment orders and administers medications as directed.

c. Collaborates with nurses, medical facilitators, and other healthcare professionals to ensure medication and medical care plans are followed accurately.

d. Teaches and reinforces fire, emergency, and safety procedures.

2. Responsible for supporting individuals’ personal growth and independence.

a. Assists in the development, implementation, and evaluation of person-centered plans.

b. Teaches skills such as personal care, nutrition, money management, domestic tasks, and the use of adaptive/technological devices.

c. Encourages participation in social, educational, vocational, and recreational activities.

d. Serves as an advocate for the individuals supported, promoting their rights, preferences, and best interests.

3. Responsible for maintaining the residential environment.

a. Assists with housekeeping, upkeep, and cleanliness of the home.

b. Ensures ramps, walkways, and common areas are clear and safe.

c. Reports safety concerns, maintenance needs, or environmental hazards to the house manager or appropriate parties.

4. Responsible for transportation and community support as needed.

a. Transports and accompanies individuals to doctor’s appointments, shopping trips, and recreational outings using Agency vehicles or personal vehicle when necessary.

b. Maintains agency vehicles, reporting any concerns or maintenance needs promptly.

c. Coordinates vehicle use and scheduling with supervisors.

5. Responsible for maintaining accurate documentation, communication, and financial stewardship.

a. Documents care, activities, and cash transactions appropriately.

b. Maintains communication with families, guardians, and other significant individuals.

c. Exercises financial stewardship of Agency resources and those of the individuals supported, ensuring accurate records and responsible use.

6. Responsible for compliance, regulatory adherence, and professional accountability.

a. Follow all Agency policies, procedures, and applicable state and federal regulations, including OPWDD rules and Justice Center requirements.

b. Report safety, abuse, neglect, or regulatory concerns promptly and appropriately.

c. Participate in internal investigations and provide accurate information when requested.

d. Complete required Agency and regulatory trainings to maintain compliance and professional competency.

7. Responsible for flexibility, teamwork, and collaboration.

a. Works varied schedules, including evenings, overnights, weekends, holidays, and mandated coverage.

b. Collaborates effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and other team members to ensure consistent, high-quality care.

8. Responsible for professional communication and behavior.

a. Demonstrates effective, professional communication and behavior with colleagues, individuals, and external partners.

b. Completes and submits required paperwork and records in a timely manner.

c. Performs other duties as requested or directed by supervisor.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma, GED, or DSP certification required.
• Successful completion of Agency orientation and training programs.
• Successful completion of Medication Certification training program.
• NYS Driver’s License with two years of driving experience required.
• Acceptable motor vehicle abstract to meet Agency insurability standards.
• Reliable personal vehicle for business use.
• Heavy work; ability to frequently lift 25 – 50 lbs., and transfer and support individuals with and without help.
• Physical strength to safely respond should a behavioral crisis occur.
• Ability to operate personal and Agency vehicles.
• Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time.
• Exposure to infectious diseases, hygiene issues, food, and other unpleasant odors.
• Able to tolerate atmospheric conditions when performing regular outdoor seasonal activities.
• Ability to operate mechanical devices used by individuals.

BENEFITS

Cerebral Palsy Association offers eligible employees excellent, affordable benefits options. Options include medical, dental, and vision insurance, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Term Life/AD&D insurance, long-term and short-term disability, 401(k), and other elective programs. We also offer generous time off, including vacation, personal, and sick time, as well as paid holidays.