Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Caregiver - job 1 of 9

As a Direct Support Professional at Dungarvin, your key responsibilities include assisting individuals with daily living activities like personal care, meal preparation, and transportation. You'll also create a safe and welcoming environment, ensuring comfort and support for individuals. Mentoring and guiding individuals through positive reinforcement and supervision to help them achieve their personal goals is a crucial part of your role.

To become a Direct Support Professional at Dungarvin, you must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid driver’s license, and ideally have reliable transportation. Additionally, having a passion for helping others and the physical stamina to perform essential job functions, such as standing and lifting individuals when necessary, is important. Basic computer skills for tracking progress and documentation are also required.

Dungarvin offers comprehensive training for Direct Support Professionals, starting with paid orientation to prepare you for the role. Training includes guidance on handling challenging behaviors and developing your skills in supporting individuals effectively. Ongoing professional development opportunities are also provided to help you grow in your career.

Direct Support Professionals at Dungarvin enjoy a range of benefits such as competitive pay at a fixed rate of $18.50/hr, full-time employees receive medical, vision, and dental insurance, and access to life insurance. Additionally, there's a 401(k) plan with a 3% employer match, paid time off, and employee perks like discounts and referrals. This comprehensive package aims to support your overall well-being and job satisfaction.

As a Direct Support Professional at Dungarvin, there are various schedule options available, including full-time and part-time roles. All individuals in this position should be prepared to work weekends and holidays, as our services are delivered year-round to those in need. Flexible scheduling can help you balance your work and personal life effectively.

When answering this question, emphasize your passion for helping individuals lead fulfilling lives. You can mention your desire to empower people with disabilities and how Dungarvin’s mission aligns with your personal values and goals.

In your response, share a specific example that demonstrates your problem-solving skills, patience, and empathy. Discuss the situation, your approach to resolving it, and the outcome to highlight your ability to manage challenges effectively.

Discuss your strategies for maintaining a clean and safe environment, being aware of potential hazards, and taking proactive steps to ensure the well-being of your clients. You can include examples of safety protocols and communication with other team members when necessary.

Having experience is essential; mention any relevant personal care tasks you've handled, such as supporting individuals with hygiene, meal preparations, or other daily activities. Explain how you approach personal care with respect and dignity, ensuring comfort for individuals.

Share your strategies for time management, such as prioritizing tasks based on needs, using schedules, and being adaptable. You can mention your ability to multitask while ensuring that each individual receives the attention and support they require.

Discuss attributes like empathy, patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to advocate for clients. You can also mention your commitment to continuous learning and adapting based on the needs of those you support.

Highlight your experience using various communication techniques tailored to individual needs, such as active listening, using visuals, or non-verbal cues. Discuss your commitment to understanding and respecting their unique ways of communication.

Share a specific situation where teamwork was crucial, outlining your role within the team, how you contributed, and what you learned from the experience. Highlight the importance of collaboration in achieving common goals.

Emphasize your belief in empowering individuals to develop their independence through support and guidance. Discuss the balance between providing necessary assistance and encouraging self-sufficiency, which is vital to their growth.

Explain that embracing diversity and inclusion is essential for providing effective support to a wide range of individuals. Discuss how understanding various backgrounds and perspectives can enhance communication and improve the quality of care you provide.