Direct Support Professional 1 (SEA) - job 1 of 2

As a Direct Support Professional 1 at Access: Supports For Living, you will play an essential role in providing support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Your duties will include assisting with daily living activities, promoting independent living skills, and advocating for the individuals you support. The goal is to enrich their lives and help them achieve personal outcomes.

To qualify as a Direct Support Professional 1 at Access: Supports For Living, you should have at least six months of direct care experience or one year in customer service. You must also be capable of communicating effectively, be proactive in managing emergencies, and possess a valid driver's license. Bilingual skills and proficiency in American Sign Language are additional assets for this position.

The pay rate for a Direct Support Professional 1 at Access: Supports For Living is $16.50 per hour, which reflects the importance of the work you will do to support individuals with disabilities. Additionally, this role provides opportunities for career progression and ongoing training.

Direct Support Professionals 1 at Access: Supports For Living typically work overnight shifts, including Thursday from 11:00 PM to 9:00 AM and Friday & Saturday from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Flexibility in scheduling and staffing is important to ensure comprehensive care for individuals supported.

Primary responsibilities of a Direct Support Professional 1 include assisting individuals with personal care, medication administration, household maintenance, and developing independent living skills. You will also participate in advocacy efforts and ensure the health and safety of the individuals in your care.

Access: Supports For Living emphasizes continuous coverage for each program, which is vital for ensuring safety. Direct Support Professionals are trained to identify and manage emergency situations effectively while maintaining documentation and adherence to safety protocols.

Upon joining Access: Supports For Living, Direct Support Professionals must complete mandatory training within the first 90 days, which includes essential skills and safety procedures. Ongoing training and certification maintenance ensure high standards of caregiving are upheld throughout your career.

When faced with challenging behavior, it's important to remain calm and composed. Use approved crisis intervention techniques and focus on understanding the individual’s needs. Provide reassurance and support, while also maintaining a safe environment for everyone involved.

Advocacy is crucial in supporting individuals with disabilities. Share a specific example where you identified an individual's need for a service or resource, communicated with relevant stakeholders, and helped facilitate that request, showcasing your dedication to their well-being.

Promoting independent living skills involves practical training and encouragement. Discuss your approach to teaching tasks step-by-step and providing opportunities for choice and decision-making, allowing individuals to learn and practice these skills in a supportive environment.

Effective communication with individuals who have diverse needs requires patience and adaptability. Discuss your strategies, such as using clear language, visual aids, and active listening. Emphasize your commitment to understanding and valuing each person’s unique way of expressing themselves.

Your personal values guide your interactions and decisions. Share how your commitment to compassion, respect, and inclusion informs your daily work and enhances the overall experience for the individuals you support, reinforcing the impact of person-centered care.

In a fast-paced environment, prioritization is key. Discuss your techniques for assessing immediate needs, setting short-term goals, and being flexible to adjust as situations evolve. Highlight any tools or strategies you use to help stay organized and focused.

Maintaining safety is paramount. Discuss your approach to conducting regular safety checks, staying informed about emergency protocols, and ensuring that all documentation is up to date. Emphasize open communication with team members to address any safety concerns proactively.

To assist with meal planning, you should first understand the individual's dietary preferences and any restrictions. Walk them through the process of choosing nutritious ingredients, preparing simple recipes, and making informed choices, always aiming to expand their culinary skills along the way.

Effective documentation is essential for tracking progress. Share your method for recording services, setting measurable goals, and utilizing both paper and electronic documentation systems to keep accurate records of each individual's journey.

Your motivation in this role often stems from a desire to make a positive difference in others' lives. Discuss the fulfillment you experience from supporting individuals, building relationships, and celebrating their achievements, emphasizing your passion for advocacy and inclusion.