General Summary:

This is a direct service position requiring general knowledge of developmental disabilities and specific knowledge and skill in rehabilitation with persons with disabilities. This position involves coordination of overall services for clients. This individual is expected, through training and experience, to exercise discretion and independent judgment with supervision of the Program and Site Supervisors.

Come join Sheppard Pratt’s growing team! We offer an hourly pay rate of $17.50 for our Direct Support Worker position.

Responsibilities:

• Facilitate Residential program activity as assigned and act as a magnet involving as many clients as possible in meaningful activities.
• Provide, coordinate and develop the following services for and with assigned individuals: assessment, planning, linking, monitoring, advocacy and care both internal to the program and through external social service agencies.
• Provide 1:1 services to clients as assigned.
• Implement money management plans according to policy.
• Ensure smooth day-to-day operation of program activities and service delivery to clients.
• Facilitate social/recreation activities as scheduled.
• Arrange and provide transportation for clients as needed.
• Accompany clients to appointments as needed.
• Implement crisis intervention actions as appropriate.
• Provide individual orientation to Program for clients as assigned.
• Implement Behavioral Program as directed in client's IP.
• The implementation of individual plans of assigned clients to meet the client's needs, interests and goals and coordinate communication and activity amongst staff working together with assigned clients.
• Provide physical assistance as required to support the individual’s needs.
• Maintain current, accurate and complete documentation related to all service functions.
• Develop strategies to assure clients utilize authorized services according to needs.
• Instruct, schedule and facilitate working side-by-side with program participants to ensure group participation as appropriate for Pathways clients.
• Notify appropriate staff of client status changes, i.e. address, emergency contact, physicians, etc.
• Work side-by-side with nursing staff to provide ongoing assessment of client’s needs for assistance with medication, contacting residential programs/families as needed.
• Observe and report symptoms of decompensation to appropriate staff and agencies.

Requirements:

• Possession of a bachelor’s degree in related field preferred. Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Positively referenced relevant work, student or volunteer experience.
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving record.
• Possession or use of a four passenger car to be used to transport clients and a copy of a valid certificate of automobile insurance.
• You must be covered under an active auto insurance policy and a valid copy of auto insurance is required prior to hire.
• Knowledge of psychiatric rehabilitation/developmental disabilities concepts and the ability to communicate and incorporate these concepts into daily activities.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds and be able to navigate stairs and a typical day program or home environment. )

Licenses & Certifications

• Driver's License