Direct Support Professional

About us We are supportive, rewarding, collaborative and our goal is to Wilkes Vocational Services provides opportunities to assist persons with disabilities to become more successful and increase community involvement. Wilkes Vocational Services provides employment education and life enhancement program. .

Our work environment includes:

Growth opportunities Wellness programs Casual work attire Relaxed atmosphere On-the-job training Lively atmosphere Wilkes Vocational Services is a non-profit organization that provides services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the North Wilkesboro, NC and surrounding areas. We provide services in the community and in the program that are closest to their abilities.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides person-centered care and support to individuals served by Wilkes Vocational Services. The DSP assists participants in achieving their personal goals, building life and vocational skills, and engaging in community-based activities. This position promotes independence, dignity, and inclusion through hands-on assistance, skill development, and supportive guidance.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Implement each individual's Person-Centered Plan (PCP) to help them achieve their goals, preferences, and desired outcomes. Encourage informed decision-making and support individuals in assuming responsibility for their choices. Assist persons served in developing skills for daily living, employment readiness, social interaction, and personal growth. Promote participation in self-advocacy, peer support, and community engagement opportunities. Provide emotional support, active listening, and reassurance during stressful or challenging situations. Maintain positive, respectful, and therapeutic relationships with individuals served and their support teams. Communicate effectively with persons served, family members, co-workers, and supervisors. Monitor and informally assess individual progress toward goals, adjusting support strategies as needed. Accurately document all services provided in accordance with WVS policies, including progress notes, attendance, and incident reports. Ensure confidentiality and safeguard all personal information in compliance with WVS policy and HIPAA standards. Recognize and respect the cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender diversity of persons served. Identify and respond appropriately to crises by using approved interventions, redirection, and environmental adjustments. Support the health, hygiene, and safety of persons served, including assisting with personal care needs when required. If medication certified, administer medications according to WVS policies and state regulations. Prevent and respond to unsafe situations, injuries, or behavioral crises using approved de-escalation techniques. Utilize appropriate first aid and safety procedures when necessary. Maintain clean, safe, and sanitary environments in setting. Participate in required training, certifications, and continuing education within prescribed timeframes. Maintain collaborative relationships with all team members and contribute to continuous quality improvement efforts. Uphold agency policies, procedures, and ethical standards at all times. Perform additional related duties as assigned by the Program Director or supervisor.

SPECIFIC EDUCATION OR EXPERIENCE

High School Diploma or GED required. Valid North Carolina Driver's License with a safe driving record. Must maintain vehicle liability insurance (minimum 100/300 thousand coverage. Basic computer proficiency and access to a secure internet-enabled device for documentation. Experience in human services, healthcare, or a related field preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, bend, and reach. May be required to lift or move up to 50 pounds. Regularly required to talk, hear, and use hands or fingers to handle materials or operate equipment. Work environment may include residential, community, or vocational settings with moderate noise levels. Must be able to safely transport individuals as required by program needs.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires travel up to 25% of the time.

Job Types:

Full-time, Part-time Pay:

From $14.00 per hour

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

NC Driver's License (Required) Shift availability: Day Shift (Required)

Work Location:

In person