Day Services DSP

For over 60 years Abilities First Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant independent lives. From early education to adulthood our wide range of servicesincluding preschool and school programs day and residential habilitation community connections and employment servicesare designed to uplift every individuals unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of peopleof every background identity and abilityto create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities races ethnicities religions socio-economic status gender and gender identities. At Abilities First youll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration celebrates individuality and is dedicated to meaningful work. If youre ready to turn your passion into purpose wed love to welcome you aboard.

Abilities First is seeking a full-time Day Services Specialist to provide direct support to individuals with developmental disabilities in both Day Habilitation and Community Connections settings. This role assists individuals in maximizing their personal social and vocational potential through structured program activities at the center and meaningful experiences in the community. The Day Services Specialist delivers hands-on support implements individualized service plans and documents progress toward personal goals. Responsibilities include facilitating daily living skills promoting independence and encouraging participation in recreational vocational and community-based activities such as outings fitness and social engagement.

This position may function as a floater supporting multiple program sites or individuals based on staffing and attendance needs. Flexibility and adaptability are essential as assignments may vary between center-based services and one-on-one community support. Day Services Specialists play a key role in empowering individuals to live their best lives by providing mentorship fostering independence and creating engaging opportunities aligned with each persons interests and goals. All required training is provided.

Salary Range:

Day Service Specialist $18.61-$20.61

Schedule Full Time

Monday- Friday 10am-6:30pm 40 hours per week

(Site based assignment 10 am -2 pm and Community Based assignment 2:30-6:30 pm)

Position Standards

• Deliver and document services supports and safeguards in accordance with each individuals ISP Day Habilitation Plan and Community Habilitation Staff Action Plan; complete required monthly documentation within designated timelines.
• Provide direct personal care as needed including assistance with toileting hygiene mobility and daily health needs; accurately document observations such as skin integrity and other required health tracking.
• Support individuals in developing independence in daily living skills including personal hygiene self-care meal preparation household tasks and maintaining an organized environment.
• Facilitate skill-building in community integration including use of public transportation participation in recreational activities and appropriate social behavior in public settings.
• Promote independence in areas such as personal health management financial skills (e.g. money use and transactions) and overall wellness.
• Demonstrate proficiency in the NYS DSP Core Competencies and apply person-centered practices in all interactions.
• Transport individuals to community activities appointments and program locations as needed.
• Complete and submit required documentation including billing records in a timely and accurate manner.
• Mobility training for maximum independence in travel to and from work or activity center community stores recreational sites etc. It included training in the use of public transportation.
• Training in appropriate social behaviors which are normative in both the community and household settings such as conducting oneself appropriately in restaurants on public transportation vehicles in recreational facilities and in stores and other public places.
• Meet regularly as per oversight agencies and service program requires.
• Fulfills mandated reporter role by initialing protective measures as needed and reporting suspected abuse to administration immediately.
• Ensures all required trainings and certifications required are current and seeks further support and training where needed.
• Adhere to agency Code of Legal and Ethical Behavior which require all employees consultants board members volunteers and affiliates to perform their responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty integrity fairness good faith and respect for others and the law.
• Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and the safety of others.
• Performs other appropriate job-related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant.
• Will incorporate CORE concepts of person-centered excellence by respecting peoples concerns and responding accordingly and will use teachable moments to assist people in understanding and exercising their rights.

Perks & Benefits:

• Time to Recharge Vacation personal sick and holidays built around the school calendar
• Health & Wellness Medical dental and vision plans to keep you covered
• Plan For The Future 401(k) with employer match and employer-paid life insurance
• Level Up Your Skills Tuition reimbursement and online training through the College of Direct Support (and to boost your earning potential)
• Get Paid When You Need It On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day
• Exclusive Extras Employee discounts with Verizon AT&T Royal Carting and more

Physical demands:

Described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job and are not meant to be all inclusive. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job. Unless reasonable accommodations can be made in order to perform the essential functions of this job an individual shall be required to:

1. Have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs. bend squat bend the knees pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid behavior intervention techniques and lifting and carrying techniques).
2. Lift individuals by using appropriate techniques including but not limited to usage of tools to assist such as the Hoyer Lift.
3. Assist individuals in ambulation by providing physical assistance including use of a gait belt or other equipment where necessary
4. Have the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time
5. Have the ability to push and pull individuals in wheelchairs.
6. Possess verbal and written communication skills in English to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Must have a current NYS drivers license deemed acceptable by our insurance carrier.
• Possess verbal and written communication skills in English to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.
• Current SCIP R certification Medication Administration certification CPR certification and SFA certification or the ability to achieve certification required.

At Abilities First we recognize that talent and potential come in many forms. If this position inspires you but your experience does not align with every preferred qualification we still encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this roleor another opportunity within our organization