Direct Care Worker

Job Description

Job Description

The Direct Support Worker (DSS) provides direct, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and/or physical disabilities. The DSS works to promote the health, safety, and well-being of individuals, empowering them to increase independence, pursue personal goals, and actively participate in their communities. This role requires compassion, patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt to diverse needs and situations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Person-Centered Support:

  • Implement individualized support plans (ISPs) or similar plans, focusing on the individual's unique goals, preferences, and strengths.

  • Assist individuals in developing and refining daily living skills (e.g., cooking, cleaning, laundry, personal hygiene, budgeting, shopping).

  • Foster self-advocacy and decision-making by supporting individuals in making choices about their lives.

  • Providing services for individual's with autism spectrum diagnosis

• Health and Safety:

  • Monitor and advocate for the physical and mental health needs of individuals.

  • Administer medications accurately and according to prescribed schedules and protocols.

  • Assist with personal care tasks, including bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, and mobility assistance (transfers, ambulation), as needed.

  • Ensure a safe, clean, and healthy living environment.

  • Implement approved emergency procedures and behavioral support strategies.

  • Accompany individuals to medical appointments and communicate with healthcare providers.

• Community Integration and Engagement:

  • Facilitate and support individuals' participation in community activities, recreation, leisure, and social events.

  • Provide transportation to appointments, work, and community outings, adhering to all safety policies.

  • Assist individuals in building positive relationships with peers, family members, and community members.

  • Support individuals in exploring educational and employment opportunities, potentially serving as a job coach.

• Documentation and Communication:

  • Maintain accurate and confidential records, including daily progress notes, incident reports, medication logs, and other required documentation.

  • Communicate effectively and professionally with individuals, their families, guardians, supervisors, and other team members.

  • Report changes in an individual's condition or behavior promptly and accurately.

• Professionalism and Development:

  • Adhere to all agency policies, procedures, and relevant regulations (e.g., state and federal guidelines for individuals with disabilities).

  • Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

  • Work collaboratively as part of a team, offering support and feedback to colleagues.

  • Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality at all times.

Qualifications:

• Must have a minimum of 100 hours of service with autistic children

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Some positions may prefer an associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., social work, psychology, education).

• Experience: Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities is often preferred. Experience in caregiving or a related field can be beneficial.

• Certifications/Licenses (may be required or agency-provided):

  • CPR and First Aid certification.

  • Medication administration certification.

  • Crisis prevention/intervention training (e.g., Mandt, SCIP).

  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation with current insurance (for positions requiring transportation of individuals).

• Skills:

  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication (verbal and written) skills.

  • Strong empathy, patience, and compassion.

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.

  • Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.

  • Flexibility and adaptability to changing situations and varying schedules (including nights, weekends, and holidays).

  • Basic computer skills for documentation and record-keeping.

  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Physical Demands (may vary based on specific role and individuals supported):

• Ability to lift, push, pull, and assist with transfers of individuals as needed (often up to 50 lbs or more).

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and reach for extended periods.

• Ability to respond to physical and behavioral challenges.

• May involve exposure to bodily fluids.

Company DescriptionMiracle Health Services is a licensed provider for the Home and Community Based Program under the Maryland Medical Assistance Autism Waiver. We are committed to providing personalized services and supports to children with Autism. Our Autism Program goal is to promote independence and improve the quality of life for both the child and their families.

Company Description

Miracle Health Services is a licensed provider for the Home and Community Based Program under the Maryland Medical Assistance Autism Waiver. We are committed to providing personalized services and supports to children with Autism. Our Autism Program goal is to promote independence and improve the quality of life for both the child and their families.