Direct Support Professional - Day Program

Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and committed Direct Support Professional to join our Day Program team located in East Stroudsburg, PA. This role focuses on delivering individualized support to adults with developmental disabilities and Autism attending life enrichment day programs. Our team prioritizes quality care aligned with each participant's goals to foster independence and enhance quality of life.

Work Schedule

Full-time position scheduled weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the East Stroudsburg program facility.

Key Duties

• Implement individual support plans (ISP) for each participant.
• Maintain daily service notes and related documentation as directed by program leadership.
• Deliver the highest standard of care meeting participants’ needs.
• Create and maintain a safe, supportive environment encouraging self-expression and goal achievement.
• Encourage participants' community inclusion through activities and experiences.
• Support participants in gaining independence in daily living, learning, leisure, and volunteer opportunities.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Candidates must successfully complete background checks, physical exams, and driving history reviews.
• Possession of a valid U.S. driver’s license with at least two years of driving experience (excluding learner’s permit period).
• No serious driving offenses within the past three years, including DUI, reckless driving, leaving an accident scene, or accumulation of three or more traffic violations or at-fault accidents.
• Access to a reliable vehicle with current registration, inspection, and valid insurance showing coverage.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Certifications in First Aid, CPR, and Community Participation Supports must be obtained within six months of hire; these will be provided and paid for by the employer.
• One year of direct care experience supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities is preferred.
• Willingness and ability to drive during work hours, adhere to safe driving standards, comply with agency motor vehicle policies, and pass substance abuse screenings.

Skills and Abilities

• Capability to instruct basic daily living skills.
• Preparedness to assist with personal care tasks as required.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with individuals, families, peers, support coordinators, and the community.
• Sound judgment and discretion applying relevant laws, policies, and procedures.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Adaptability to work independently or in teams across varying environments.
• Empathy and dedication to prioritize individuals’ needs and rights.
• Proficiency or willingness to learn workplace software tools including Outlook, intranet platforms, electronic health records, and attendance systems.
• Basic IT skills for navigating network drives and troubleshooting common hardware issues.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Work predominantly occurs in community and day program settings with potential exposure to varying noise and temperature levels, and unpredictable behaviors.
• Ability to stay alert and engaged during shifts.
• Capable of standing, walking, bending, kneeling, reaching, climbing stairs, and assisting with mobility.
• Must be able to lift, transfer, push, or pull individuals or objects up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance.
• Competent in safely handling manual and powered wheelchairs, including navigating ramps and uneven terrain.
• Capable of assisting individuals transferring in and out of vehicles using adaptive equipment safely.
• Occasionally provide physical support for personal care, positioning, or daily living tasks.
• Adequate vision and hearing for safety monitoring and effective communication.
• Reliable transportation and aptitude to escort or transport participants to community activities.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be necessary depending on activity and safety guidelines.

Compensation and Benefits

The position offers a starting salary of $17 per hour, with salary adjustments considering education and experience, alongside a comprehensive benefits package.

• Extensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans, company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, and catastrophic sick leave.
• Health insurance premium subsidy up to 88%, with many employees paying under $150 monthly.
• Paid time off accumulates to nearly six weeks in the first year including 20+ PTO days and nine holidays, increasing with tenure.
• 401(k) plan with employer match, tuition reimbursement, and access to discounted college tuition.
• Reimbursement for mileage and tolls incurred on the job.
• Employee Assistance Program offering confidential counseling, financial and legal advice.
• Paid trainings, continuous professional development, and advancement opportunities across programs.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Access Services is committed to creating an inclusive work environment and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.