Direct Support Professional jobs at Vanderheyden

Job Description: Direct Support Professional (DSP) Direct Support Professional Shifts Available: 1st Shift, 2nd Shift, 3rd Shift Compensation: $16.50-17/hr. A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides essential care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role involves assisting individuals with daily living activities, promoting independence, and ensuring a safe and supportive environment, in line with OPWDD guidelines. Responsibilities 1st Shift Morning Routine: Assist individuals with waking up, personal hygiene such as bathing, changing diapers, brushing teeth, dressing, and breakfast preparation. Daily Activities: Support individuals in engaging in morning activities, such as exercise, therapy sessions, doctor's appointments, or educational programs such as day habilitation. Household Tasks: Assist with housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation for lunch. Documentation: Maintain accurate records of individual progress, activities, and any incidents. 2nd Shift Afternoon Activities: Facilitate recreational activities, community outings, and social interactions. Personal Care: Assist with personal hygiene, including bathing and dressing for the evening. Meal Preparation: Cook and serve dinner, ensuring dietary needs are met. Evening Routine: Help individuals with their evening routines, including preparing for bed, doing laundry, and assisting with lunch preparation for the next day. Documentation: Record daily activities, individual progress, and any notable events. 3rd Shift Overnight Supervision: Stay awake and monitor individuals every 15-30 minutes throughout the night to ensure their safety and well-being. Personal Care: Assist with any nighttime personal care needs, such as changing diapers if needed and changing bedding if the individual soils their bedding. Assist individuals with waking up, personal hygiene such as bathing, changing diapers, brushing teeth, dressing, and breakfast preparation. Household Tasks: Perform housekeeping duties, such as cleaning common areas and bedrooms, and preparing breakfast items. Medication Administration: Administer any required nighttime medications. Emergency Response: Be prepared to respond to any emergencies or incidents during the night. Documentation: Maintain detailed records of overnight activities and any incidents. Direct Support Professional (DSP) Role: DSPs work in residential facilities to help individuals achieve their full potential and integrate into their communities. Responsibilities: Assist with daily living activities, such as getting dressed, going to the bathroom, and finding a job. DSPs focus on teaching individuals how to perform these tasks independently. Approach: Emphasis on support rather than caregiving. DSPs help individuals learn to do things for themselves, promoting independence. Day Habilitation (DayHab) Staff Role: Dahab staff work in day habilitation programs, which are structured environments where individuals with IDD can develop skills and engage in activities during the day. (Hours vary from 8 AM - 4 PM or 9 AM - 5 PM, also considered school hours) Responsibilities: Facilitate various activities designed to enhance social, educational, and vocational skills. This can include arts and crafts, educational sessions, and community outings. Approach: Focus on providing a supportive and enriching environment where individuals can learn and practice new skills in a group setting. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Provides physical and programmatic aid to the individuals we support where assigned. Aids in daily operation of assigned program areas. Assists with supervision of the individuals in assigned areas. Accompanies individuals out into the community on a regular basis and maintains close supervision. Performs clerical work for assigned areas, i.e., collating, folding, typing, and answering telephones. Serves as a member of the interdisciplinary plan. Collects data for written program plans as assigned, i.e., behavior plans, treatment plans. Provides necessary program support/coverage. Writes case notes and provides information on incidents as required. Follows established classroom activity schedules. Assists Habilitation Specialist in maintaining a clean and organized classroom. Assists with toileting and feeding of individuals receiving services. Assists with outer clothing of individuals receiving services as needed. Participates in activities outside of the activity room, i.e., trips, pool, gym. Enters swimming pool with program participants as required. Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Valid New York State Driver's License and must maintain it in good standing preferred but not required. Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English. Good oral and written communication skills. Good interpersonal skills are necessary to interact effectively with coworkers, employees, the individuals we support, and their families. Ability to analyze problems and determine corrective measures. Must be vaccinated against Covid-19. Education and/or Experience High School Diploma or GED required to be able to convert to permanent staff; however, not required, Six months of related experience is preferred but not required. All tasks may vary and are not limited to what is above. #AC1 #ACNYN

Job Description 1:1 Part-Time Support Staff Needed - Canastota, NY (BW - CL) A 15-year-old female in the Canastota area is looking for a Direct Support Professional to assist her with, completing household chores, learning safety skills, and help her with choosing activities to her liking. She spends most of her time watching YouTube but also dancing and swimming. The ideal candidate is creative and engaging, active and patient, and willing to travel to different locations. The ideal candidate must also be willing to provide personal care when needed. The ideal candidate should be very patient and willing to assist with meeting new people. Hours and days of work: Weekday's after 3:30pm and weekends, up to 10 hours a week. Starting pay: Starting pay is $16.00 Location: Canastota, NY Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work independently in the person's home and/or community. Reliable with effective communication and organizational skills No experience required but experience working with people with disabilities preferred. New York State Driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance is required; acceptable driving record required. Must have technology available to download multiple apps for use in the community. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Self-Direction DSP - North Syracuse Area (Job #ES/SW) Exceptional Family Resources is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to work in the North Syracuse area with a young woman who uses a wheelchair and requires some assistance with activities of daily living due to a physical disability. She and her staff will provide new hires training. The DSP will drive the person to appointments and special activities out in the community with reimbursement for travel. The individual is looking for a dedicated staff to assist her with maintaining her independence both at home and in community settings. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to assisting with Personal Care, light housekeeping, meal preparation and general independence. We are looking for individuals who are reliable, patient, and enthusiastic. Must be okay to be around a friendly large size dog and a gecko . Prior experience a plus but willing to train. Reliable transportation and a HS diploma/GED are required. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Hiring for shifts: Fridays 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM There is an ability for more hours once hired on. Back-up staffing needs have been identified! Flexibility to fill-in for other staff is a MAJOR plus. Individual willing to consider different schedule/shifts for the right applicant. The pay rate is $26 per hour. EFR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For consideration, please complete your application on-line at https://contactefr.applicantpro.com/jobs/1469564.html or download and complete EFR's employment application from our website and email it to DSP@contactefr.org or send it to 1820 Lemoyne Ave. Syracuse, NY 13208. Attn: HR. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Self-Direction DSP - Oswego Area (Job #AT-LH) Exceptional Family Resources is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide Respite services to a young school aged girl in the Oswego area. This young girl is playful and very sweet natured. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading books with others, and Disney Movies. She is nonverbal and communicates using her iPad to help her make her needs and wants known. She also communicates with sounds, some sign language, body language, and facial expressions. We are looking for a patient, kind, and reliable individual to support her and give her family well-deserved respite. Prior experience a plus but not required- Guidance on activities and training will be provided by the family in conjunction with the agency supervisor. Some responsibilities include assisting with Personal Care, transferring, and meal preparation. The individual utilizes a wheelchair and a Hoyer lift among other various adaptive equipment and requires total assistance with activities of daily life due to a physical disability. Staff must be able to assist with lifting and transferring as needed. Some behavioral redirection may be needed at times. Hiring for part time position with flexible scheduling, Weekdays after 4:30 PM during the school year, Saturdays from 3:00pm to 8:00pm or later, and Sunday's flexible/open hours. Hours to be agreed upon, the family is willing to work with potential staff on scheduling and are flexible on hours. There are up to 16 hours/week available to be shared with another staff. The payrate is $21.00/hour. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. EFR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Self-Direction DSP -Cicero Area (Job #RC-NP) Exceptional Family Resources is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide Community Habilitation to a young man in the Cicero area. The individual is looking for a dedicated staff for Monday through Friday approximately 8am to 4pm with flexibility. He is looking for someone to work on his habilitative goals with him while his father is at work. We are looking for applicants who are reliable, caring, and patient. Individual is nonverbal and utilizes a communication device and gestures to communicate. He enjoys routine and values patience. He enjoys watching his DVDs on his portable DVD players and going for car rides with the window down. Ideal applicant has experience working with someone who has behaviors. Payrate: $25.00 per hour. All new hires must complete a five-hour initial training course online; the payrate for the initial training is $16.50/hour Schedule: Monday through Friday 8am-4pm, and options for weekends. Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work independently in the person's home and/or community. Reliable with effective communication and organizational skills No experience required but experience working with people with disabilities preferred. New York State Driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance is required; acceptable driving record required. Must have technology available to download multiple apps for use in the community. EFR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description 1:1 Part-Time Support Staff Needed - Liverpool NY (MG- RV) 45 year old woman in the Liverpool area is looking for support to participate in activities of interest in her community. She enjoys going out to eat, listening to music, going to the library, shopping, arts and crafts and watching TV and movies. She enjoys visiting friends and family The ideal candidate is creative and engaging, active and patient, and willing to travel to different locations. The ideal candidate must also be willing to provide minimal personal care when needed. This is a part-time position, but additional hours are available with other people receiving services. at the agency. Hours and days of work: 9:00am - 1:00 PM Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Times and days CAN be flexible. Starting pay: $20 Location: Liverpool, NY Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work independently in the person's home and/or community. Reliable with effective communication and organizational skills No experience required but experience working with people with disabilities preferred. New York State Driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance is required; acceptable driving record required. Must have technology available to download multiple apps for use in the community. EOE Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Self-Direction DSP - Brewerton Area (Job #JO-SW) You can make a difference in the life of someone special! We are looking for an young, engaging, and creative staff (1:1 support) to work with a young man with a developmental disability who is located in the city of Brewerton, NY. In this critical role, you will provide support to the person while completing tasks and goals such as teaching safety skills, social skills, independent living skills, and accessing the community. The ideal candidate will have effective communication, be compassionate, and must be reliable. Experience is preferred, but not necessary for the right candidate! Candidate must also be okay with cats. Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30am to 5pm, Weekends Pay rate: $20/hour starting, additionally $.70 per mile for transportation reimbursement Location: Brewerton, NY Reliable transportation is required. Background check, fingerprinting, and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by non-profit agency. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description 1:1 Part-Time Support Staff Needed - Clay, NY Area (MD - MT) A 22-year-old female in the Clay area looking for a Direct Support Professional to assist her with improving her strength and flexibility, walking, stretching, and getting out into the community to go to parks, museums, car rides, the YMCA, and to socialize with others. She spends most of her time at home listening to music and stories, watching tv, playing with her button toys but she also enjoys going outside to walk/stroll at the park, go to the library, the zoo, and events around Syracuse. The ideal candidate is creative and engaging, active and patient, and willing to travel to different locations. The ideal candidate must also be willing to provide personal care when needed, and able to lift, stand, and physically assist. This is a part-time position, but additional hours are available with other people receiving services. at the agency. Hours and days of work: Looking for Saturdays from about 9am-2pm. Is flexible to do every other Saturday. Starting pay: Starting pay is $20/hour and increases with years of relevant experience. Location: Clay, NY Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work independently in the person's home and/or community. Reliable with effective communication and organizational skills No experience required but experience working with people with disabilities preferred. New York State Driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance is required; acceptable driving record required. Must have technology available to download multiple apps for use in the community. EOE Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Self-Directed Support Professional Advertisement - Community Habilitation (RC-AM) An 18-year-old female in the Syracuse area is looking for a Direct Support Professional to provide respite care to her at least once a week to assist her with bathing, washing her hair, skin care, and other grooming needs. The preferred candidate would be free for an entire day once a week to help with these needs. Hours and days of work: Various days and times up to 34 hours a week Starting pay: Starting pay is $21.00 Location: Syracuse, NY Hours: Days and times are flexible, but they are looking for these specifically. Mondays - 9am - 11:30am Tuesdays - 9am - 11:30am Thursdays - 9am - 11:30am Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work independently in the person's home and/or community. Reliable with effective communication and organizational skills No experience required but experience working with people with disabilities preferred. New York State Driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance is required; acceptable driving record required. Must have technology available to download multiple apps for use in the community EOE Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Self-Direction DSP - Syracuse Area (Job #SJ-OA) ARISE/Exceptional Family Resources is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to work with an outgoing and motivated young man. He enjoys working out, going to the mall, taking karate classes, playing basketball and spending time with his friends. He is currently attending Inclusive U. In this role, you will help him become more involved in community and/or campus events and will help him improve his organizational skills. He is seeking a friendly, energetic, and supportive individual. Please respond with a resume or summary of experience. Hours and Days of work: The schedule is flexible and can be worked out upon hire. It will include some evening and/or weekend shifts. Payrate: $21.00 per hour. ARISE/EFR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Location: Syracuse, NY Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description 1:1 Part-Time Support Staff Needed - Liverpool, NY (CF-CR) A 21-year-old male in the Liverpool area is looking for a Direct Support Professional to assist him with money management, enhancing positive communication and social skills, and being active in his community. He enjoys getting out into the community, going for walks, to the mall and library. He enjoys music, watching television, playing with toys, and is great with computers. The ideal candidate is creative and engaging, active and patient. It may take time for him to get to know new staff. This is a part-time position, but additional hours are available with other people receiving services. at the agency. Hours and days of work: Monday-Friday after school 2:30pm Starting pay: Starting pay is $18.50/hour and increases with years of relevant experience. Location: Liverpool, NY Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work independently in the person's home and/or community. Reliable with effective communication and organizational skills No experience required but experience working with people with disabilities preferred. New York State Driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance is required; acceptable driving record required. Must have technology available to download multiple apps for use in the community. EOE Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Self-Direction DSP - North Syracuse Area (Job #LB-ES) ARISE/Exceptional Family Resources is seeking a Direct Support Professional to work in the North Syracuse area with a woman who requires assistance. The individual is looking for a dedicated staff to provide her with support and assist her with maintaining her independence both at home and in community settings. Responsibilities include but are not limited to accessing the community and general independence. We are looking for individuals who are reliable, patient, and enthusiastic. Prior experience a plus. Reliable transportation and a HS diploma/GED are required. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Work hours include Monday or Tuesday, 3:30 pm - 7:30 pm, and Friday from 10:00am - 2:30 pm. The pay rate is $20 per hour. ARISE/EFR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For consideration, please complete your application on-line at http://contactefr.org/workwithus/ or download and complete EFR's employment application from our website and email it to DSP@contactefr.org or send it to 1820 LeMoyne Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Self-Direction DSP - Syracuse Area (Job #SmCC-DP) Exceptional Family Resources is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to work in Syracuse with a woman who has an intellectual disability. She is looking for a dedicated person to provide her with transportation and support her both at home and in community settings. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, assisting her with light personal care, participating in community activities, supporting her safety awareness and assisting with her general independence. We are looking for individuals who are reliable, patient, and enthusiastic. Prior experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities and providing behavior supports a plus. Reliable vehicle and a valid NYS driver's license are required. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. EFR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Schedule: Monday through Friday: 7:00am-8:00am and 3:00pm-5:00pm Pay rate: $20 per hour Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description 1:1 Part-Time Support Staff Needed - Baldwinsville, NY (BJ-RF) A 61-year-old male in the Baldwinsville area is looking for a Direct Support Professional to assist him with his safety skills, socialization skills, and independent living skills. He spends most of his time relaxing in his group home. But he enjoys going to the Syracuse airport and for scenic car rides. He enjoys heavy metal and rock music, but his favorite type of music is 80's rock. The ideal candidate is creative and engaging, active and patient, and willing to travel to different locations. The ideal candidate must also be willing to provide personal care when needed, and able to lift. The ideal candidate should be very active and willing to go on long car rides. This is a part-time position, but additional hours are available with other people receiving services. at the agency. Hours and days of work: Tuesday's and Thursday's up to 9 hours a week. Starting pay: list Starting pay is $18.50/hour Location: Baldwinsville, NY Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work independently in the person's home and/or community. Reliable with effective communication and organizational skills No experience required but experience working with people with disabilities preferred. New York State Driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance is required; acceptable driving record required. Must have technology available to download multiple apps for use in the community. Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

At Ability Beyond, you can be accepted, celebrated, & impactful! Join Ability Beyond's Virtual Job Fair on December 9, 2025 from 9AM-4PM! Walk-In's Welcome OR APPLY HERE to get scheduled! Were you referred by a friend? Let us know in your application! Location: Westchester County, NY (Various Locations) Hours: We offer guaranteed set schedules including 1st, 2nd, 3rd shifts, and weekends! Pay Rate: $20.25 / hour * Working with individuals with developmental/intellectual and physical disabilities in a residential group home * Helping adults with disabilities with daily living such as cooking, cleaning, and hands-on care * Assisting with transportation to and from appointments or on outings * Immersing individuals with disabilities into the community to participate in work and volunteer activities such as attending sporting events or participating in recreational activities * Assisting with positive behavior reinforcement, goal planning, and socialization skills * Ensure proper electronic and physical documentation of daily individualized case notes * Collaborating with an interdisciplinary team that includes nurses, behaviorists, & nutritionists Benefits: * Extensive paid training and certification program * Generous benefit package (medical, dental, vision, pet insurance) * Paid time off (increases over years of service) * Self-directed retirement plan options (403B) * PSLF loan forgiveness eligibility * NYS Healthcare Worker Bonus eligibility * Flexible work schedules and overtime available that allow for work life balance * Access to an Employee Assistant Program including mental health resources * Ongoing diversity, equity, inclusion, & belonging initiatives * Accredited certification programs in direct care, leadership, and other specialties * Employee mentorship program * Opportunities for growth and advancement * A culture of appreciation, respect, and teamwork Qualifications: * High School Diploma or Equivalent * Valid Driver's License is required * Willingness to learn, no experience needed To see a day in the life our Ability Beyond workforce, check out this video: *******************************************

Job Description Looking to make a difference? Exceptional Family Resources is currently hiring part-time direct support professionals (DSPs) for multiple departments. DSPs are also known as mentors, skill builders, and 1:1 support staff. DSPs work 1:1 with people with developmental or intellectual disabilities. This is a perfect job for someone who has experience as a mentor, teacher, teaching aide, DSP, coach, or counselor; however, no experience is necessary or required. We serve all ages and have various openings throughout Onondaga and Oswego County. We currently have significant need for staff who have late afternoons and/or early evening availability. Candidates that are open to supporting several individuals and providing transportation/traveling would be considered a priority for additional hours. We offer: Good starting pay A fun and fulfilling job No experience is required. Valid New York State Driver's License and access to a reliable vehicle required. Rate of pay $17- $18.50 an hour. EOE Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description 1:1 Part-Time Support Staff Needed - Lacona, NY (CF-CR) A 65-year-old-female in the Lacona area is looking for a Direct Support Professional to begin immediately to assist her and support her family in providing assistance with activities of daily living. She enjoys her daily routine, quiet activities and visiting with family and friends. She enjoys watching videos on her tablet, going for walks outside when the weather is nice and sitting on the front porch. The ideal candidate is engaging, caring and patient. The ideal candidate must also be willing to provide personal care when needed, and able to lift. This is a part-time position, but additional hours are available with other people receiving services. at the agency. Hours and days of work: Full time, open availability Starting pay: Starting pay is $17.00/hour and increases with years of relevant experience. Location: Lacona, NY Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work independently in the person's home and/or community. Reliable with effective communication and organizational skills No experience required but experience working with people with disabilities preferred. New York State Driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of auto insurance is required; acceptable driving record required. Must have technology available to download multiple apps for use in the community. EOE Background check, fingerprinting and DMV record check will be conducted prior to hire by the non-profit agency. Job Posted by ApplicantPro

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 services-including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services-are designed to uplift every individual's unique strengths and dreams. We believe in the power of people-of every background, identity, and ability-to 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, you'll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we'd love to welcome you aboard. Position Summary The Day Habilitation Specialist (Day Hab Specialist) will assist individuals with developmental disabilities to maximize their personal and vocational potential in their center and community. The Day Hab Specialist provides direct care support and assists in the implementation and documentation of each individual's program plan. Day Habilitation Specialists for designated programs may be expected to support other programs based on staffing and attendance. Floating Day Hab Specialists will be assigned based on need. The following position standards apply to both regular and floating Day Hab Specialists. Full time schedule: Monday - Friday 7:45am - 3:30pm Salary Range: Day Hab Specialists I (drivers)- $17.90 to $19.90 per hour Day Hab Specialists II (drivers)- 18.41- 20.41 per hour Note: The rates outlined above are contingent upon being deemed eligible to drive by our insurance carrier. Should you be deemed ineligible to drive and the program is able to make a non-driver accommodation, a lower rate of pay will apply. Position Standards: Delivers and documents the services, supports, safeguards, behavioral documentation and activities identified by ISP/CFA and the Day Habilitation plan. Completes the monthly note and ensure it covers the individual's response to service within the seven days of the following month for assigned individuals. Performs individual specific personal care as required, including but not limited to assistance with toileting, transferring, changing needs, handwashing and oral care. Documents any finding on appropriate forms including but not limited skin integrity, bowel and repositioning charts. Ensures active engagement and appropriate communication with staff and individuals. Assumes responsibility for medication administration and appropriate documentation in an accurate and timely manner. Develops a trusting and friendly rapport with individuals served while maintaining professional boundaries. Fulfills mandated reporter role by interrupting and reporting suspected abuse to administration immediately. Ensures that the center is kept safe, clean and decorated in an age appropriate and comfortable manner and that is kept in good repair inside and out. Demonstrates proficiency in all goals and skillsets outlined in the NYS DSP Core Competencies, on which performance will be evaluated. Responsible for providing transportation to individuals receiving services driving agency vehicles with a capacity up to 14 passengers. Ensures all required trainings and certifications are current, and seeks further support and training where needed. Consistently exhibits the qualities of a committed and professional employee including but not limited to: respect toward others, strive for excellence, teamwork and unity. Supports agency vision and mission. 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. Contributes reports of observations of individual's progress and behavior, unusual incidents, or other relevant information. Performs other appropriate job related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant. 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 Job Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent required Minimum 1 year's experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities required Clean NYS driver's license that is deemed “acceptable” by our insurance carrier required. SCIP-R, CPR, SFA, and Med Certification a plus. Ability to obtain these certifications required. Lifting and maneuvering of individuals is required. 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: Have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., bend, squat, turn in 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). Lift individuals by using appropriate techniques, including but not limited to usage of tools to assist, such as the Hoyer Lift. Assist individuals in ambulation by providing physical assistance, including use of a gait belt or other equipment where necessary. Have the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time. Have the ability to push, pull, and maneuver adults in wheelchairs. Possess verbal and written communication skills, in English, to ensure adequate regulatory documentation. 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 role-or another opportunity within our organization

The Community Habilitation Specialist works with individuals in a one to one or small group setting to learn or maintain the skills needed to live safely and more independently within the community, The community habilitation specialist works with individuals to make and keep friends, participate in community events/groups, learn socially appropriate behaviors, community safety, choice making and self-advocacy skills. The community habilitation specialist works with the individual(s) to create a community-integrated person-centered service. Primary Duties and Essential Functions: Ability to communicate effectively and professionally in verbal and written form. Demonstrate OPWDD Core Competencies and NADSP Code of Ethics. Completes all required trainings. Ensure individuals safety while promoting independence and learning. Knowledge of community-based resources including but not limited to age-appropriate social emotional activities. Actively participates in professional developments through supervision, staff development opportunities and staff meetings. Strong work ethic: ability to commit to a caseload. Demonstrates a person-centered approach in providing services. Attends Life Plan meetings as needed. Provides services in a community-based setting to help facilitate community connections. Exhibit knowledge of agency policies and procedures. Completes required documentation for billing and progress documentation in accordance with OPWDD and Agency requirements. Creates a work schedule based on the individual(s) preference and utilizes their time efficiently and appropriately to maximize billing opportunities. Meets hourly billing requirements weekly. Required Education, Knowledge, and Skills: High school Diploma or GED. Ability to become SCIP certified. Ability to write legibly. Must have a valid driver's license. Ability to drive own vehicle or agency vehicle on company time. Reliable transportation to and from service sites. Abilities and Working Conditions: Must be available to work 40 hours per week. All shifts are AWAKE shifts. Must be able to lift 25lbs. Must be able to stand and run for moderate periods of time. Must be able to complete all required OPWDD trainings. Willingness to respond to the needs of culturally diverse population. Compensation: $18 an hour Vanderheyden is committed to the National Sanctuary Model - a blueprint for clinical and organizational change which, at its core, promotes safety and recovery from adversity through the active creation of a trauma-informed community. The Sanctuary Model's focus is not only on the people who seek services, but equally on the people and systems that provide those services. Vanderheyden, as an Equal Opportunity Employer, does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices on the basis of gender, race or ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, military or marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, prior arrest or conviction record or any other category protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.