Human Services Direct Support Staff (Emplymnt/CommunityExp)

HUMAN SERVICES PROFESSIONALS provide adults with intellectual disabilities DIRECT SUPPORT for community and agency-based EMPLOYMENT and COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE PROGRAMS

Welcome to the Arc of Meriden-Wallingford where we provide advocacy, residential, recreational, community and employment services to adults with intellectual, developmental and cognitive disabilities.
Support Staff at The Arc of Meriden-Wallingford, Inc. are employed to provide people with disabilities the opportunity to lead self-directed lives and to participate fully in our community and nation.

HUMAN SERVICES PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT STAFF will work in partnership with others to support individuals leading self-directed lives, honor the individuals right to assume risk in an informed manner and recognize that each individual has potential for life long learning and growth.

It is the purpose of the HUMAN SERVICES PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT STAFF to follow the individuals’ path suggested by the unique gifts, preferences and needs of each individual they support and to walk in partnership with the person and those who love him/her toward a life of opportunity, well-being, freedom and contribution.

It is the responsibility of all staff to provide the highest level of positive, professional supports to the individuals we serve each day. The level of professionalism and dedication provided to the individuals we serve directly effects their satisfaction and success.

The responsibilities and personal satisfaction of assisting in the success and personal development of another individual are great. Support Staff need to meet these responsibilities that require the nurturing of a positive attitude and belief that all people deserve the opportunity to work, live and participate in their community, taking part in both challenges and opportunities available to us all.

HUMAN SERVICES PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT STAFF are agency representatives whose actions influence the public perception and opinion of our services.
•Individuals we serve rely on the positive, professional services provided by each staff member.
•Our staff assists individuals to achieve success at home, in the community and on the job.
•Our ability to provide these services has a direct impact on the quality of life enjoyed by individuals we support.
If you are up to the challenge of working in an agency motivated by the concept of self-determination and self- directed services, for career opportunities please respond. Equal Opportunity Employer

HUMAN SERVICES PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
•Maintains a positive attitude and belief that all people employed by Arc of Meriden-Wallingford Inc. are responsible for quality and outcomes
•Strives to continually work as an active, productive team member to assure success of the individuals and the Agency utilizing enthusiasm, creativity and professionalism
•Follows and demonstrates the philosophy of Arc of Meriden-Wallingford, Inc.
•Ensures individuals served live the life they want the way they want it as outlined in our philosophy
•Develops a relationship with the individuals served that is respectful, based on mutual trust and that maintains professional boundaries
•Represents the agency positively and professionally when interacting with individuals served, co-workers, employers, their employees, families and other community members
•Communicates effectively, clearly and positively with individuals served, families, staff, supervisors and community members
•Adheres to Arc of Meriden-Wallingford, Inc. and DMR Policies and Procedures
•Takes responsibility for any issues noted and demonstrates the ability to actively problem solve by seeking, developing and implementing viable solutions
•Ensures confidentiality as required by law and Arc of Meriden-Wallingford, Inc. Policies & Procedures
•Attends, completes and demonstrates competency in all applicable Arc of Meriden-Wallingford, Inc. training
•Takes responsibility for safety hazards in all areas including but not limited to programs/residences and vehicles. Staff will shovel, spread sand as needed in order to provide safe walking surfaces
•Ensures that the individuals plan is carried out as outlined in the written plan, programs, schedules and other documentation
•Provides advocacy for individuals served based on their personal choices
•Ensures that each individual served becomes involved in their community utilizing staff and natural supports according to personal choices
•Ensures all individuals served are living according to their rights and responsibilities and are free from abuse and neglect
•Will be flexible when needed to transfer to another program/residence
•Maintains valid Passenger Service License in order to meet required driving responsibilities
•Supports each individual served in taking care of their life needs, i.e. home, finances, personal care, proper nutrition, medication, socializations and recreation
•Performs other duties as designated by the Manager/Assistant Manager/Lead Staff

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR AGENCY, VISIT OUR WEBSITE, http://www.mwsinc.org
REQUIREMENTS
SKILLS NEEDED:
•Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
•Ability to analyze situations, develop creative solutions, act quickly and remain calm in a crisis
•Ability to obtain and utilize CPR, First Aid, PMT, Medication Administration Certification within DMR guidelines and to remain in compliance throughout employment

PHYSICAL EFFORT:
•Must be able to lift a minimum of fifty pounds
•May be required to participate in repetitive lifts and transfers
•May be required to perform behavioral interventions and techniques
•Some sitting with frequent walking, standing, pushing, pulling, bending and driving

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT:
•Ability to meet frequent deadlines and handle stressful, hectic situations without loss of efficiency and composure

REQUIREMENTS:

•Documentation of high school diploma or GED
•Valid CT driver’s license (for a least one year)
•Acceptable driver history and ability to obtain PSL license (must pass physical)
•Drug and alcohol screening required along with post offer physical
•Ability to lift a minimum of fifty pounds
•Ability to perform CPR with agency training
•Ability to drive a wheel chair van
•Ability to pass 21 hour State of CT Medication Administration Certification required by Department of Mental Retardation