Independent Support Specialist - job 1 of 3

As an Independent Support Specialist at Dungarvin, your main responsibilities will involve providing individualized care that focuses on promoting independence for those you serve. This includes supporting individuals in a variety of settings, both in-home and in the community. You'll engage in activities that foster skill development in areas such as community participation, health and wellness, and household management, enabling individuals to achieve their personal goals.

To work as an Independent Support Specialist at Dungarvin, candidates must be at least 18 years old (or 21, depending on the individual served), possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record, and have a reliable vehicle. A high school diploma or GED is required, along with either an associate degree in a relevant field or two years of experience working with developmentally disabled or mentally ill individuals. Flexibility, teamwork, and tech-savviness are also essential.

Dungarvin provides paid training and orientation for all Independent Support Specialists. This preparatory program equips you with essential skills and knowledge necessary for assisting individuals with disabilities effectively. Continued growth and development opportunities are also available as you progress in your career at Dungarvin.

As an Independent Support Specialist at Dungarvin, you will use your personal vehicle to transport the individuals you support. Dungarvin offers mileage reimbursement to cover your travel expenses, ensuring that your dedication to enhancing the lives of others is recognized and rewarded.

Independent Support Specialists at Dungarvin can expect a flexible part-time schedule that varies according to the needs of the individuals they support. While hours are subject to change based on client requirements, this flexibility allows your role to fit naturally into your lifestyle while making a significant impact in others' lives.

When answering this question, highlight your approach to understanding the individual's unique needs and goals. Discuss your ability to create tailored support plans that include coaching, encouragement, and skill development. Providing examples from previous experiences can also demonstrate your capacity to foster independence effectively.

In your response, detail any relevant experience, including volunteer work, past positions, or personal experiences that have equipped you to work with individuals with disabilities. Highlight the skills you've developed, such as communication, empathy, and problem-solving, that are essential in this role.

It's essential to approach this question by outlining your techniques for crisis management and de-escalation. Share strategies you’ve used in the past to identify triggers, stay calm, and redirect behavior, emphasizing your commitment to creating a positive and supportive environment.

Employ this opportunity to showcase your teamwork skills. Share a specific example of a successful project or situation where you collaborated with colleagues to meet a common goal, focusing on your role, communication methods, and the positive outcomes achieved.

For this question, reflect on the key attributes such as compassion, patience, communication skills, and adaptability that are pivotal for success as an Independent Support Specialist. Justify your answers with examples of how you exhibit these qualities in your work.

When responding, illustrate your ability to build rapport and trust with clients. Discuss strategies to engage them gradually, perhaps by finding activities aligned with their interests and showcasing the benefits of participation, while respecting their autonomy.

Emphasize your organizational skills and time management strategies in this response. Talk about tools or methods you use to prioritize tasks, schedule appointments, and maintain clear communication with all parties involved, ensuring each client's needs are met efficiently.

In your answer, frame a situation where communication was key. Mention strategies you used to empathize with the family member's concerns while remaining focused on the best interests of the client. Emphasize resolution-focused dialogue to maintain a supportive environment.

Discuss your commitment to professional growth by mentioning any certifications, workshops, or courses you've taken related to working with individuals with disabilities. Talk about how you seek feedback and apply new knowledge in your practice.

This is an opportunity for you to express your passion for making a difference. Highlight your admiration for Dungarvin’s mission and values, and explain how your skills and goals align with the organization's commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities.