Description:
Position Summary
The Support Assistant (SA) provides direct care and habilitative services to individuals in accordance with DDS regulations, Agency policies, and each individual’s Plan of Service (POS) and/or Individualized Plan (IP). The SA supports individuals in achieving personal outcomes while ensuring health, safety, rights, and dignity.
Key Responsibilities
Direct Care & Supervision
- Provide active supervision at all times and maintain awareness of each individual’s location, safety, and status.
- Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs) including personal hygiene, meals, mobility, and community participation.
- Promote independence, choice, and skill development consistent with DDS person-centered planning standards.
Implementation of Plans (DDS Compliance)
- Implement all goals, objectives, and staff actions as written in the individual’s Plan of Service (POS), Individual Plan (IP), or Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
- Follow all behavior support plans, including approved interventions and emergency procedures in accordance with DDS and Agency policy.
- Carry out therapeutic recommendations from occupational, physical, and speech therapists.
- Collect and record data as required to support progress monitoring and DDS documentation standards.
Health, Safety & Rights
- Ensure the health and safety of all individuals in accordance with DDS regulations.
- Administer medications and treatments as trained and certified, following DDS Medication Administration Program (MAP) guidelines.
- Report and document all incidents, injuries, medication errors, and unusual events per DDS reporting requirements.
- Immediately report any suspected abuse, neglect, or mistreatment in accordance with mandated reporter laws.
- Safeguard individual rights, privacy, and confidentiality at all times.
Documentation & Recordkeeping
- Complete all required documentation accurately, timely, and in compliance with DDS standards.
- Maintain records of services provided, progress toward goals, and daily activities.
- Accurately track petty cash and individuals’ personal funds per DDS and Agency requirements.
Environment & Program Support
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized living and program environment.
- Ensure vehicles and program areas meet safety and cleanliness standards.
- Support and facilitate meaningful recreational and community-based activities.
- Participate in required emergency drills and follow all safety protocols.
Teamwork & Communication
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, team members, families, guardians, and outside providers.
- Participate in team meetings, ISP/POS meetings, and required trainings.
- Follow all Agency and DDS policies, procedures, and professional standards.
Other Duties
- Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisory staff to support program operations.
Requirements:
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities or behavioral needs preferred.
Skills
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
- Basic math skills for daily tasks and money management.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and apply practical problem-solving skills.
Required Certifications
- Medication Administration Certification (MAP Certified or ability to obtain)
- CPR and First Aid Certification
- PMT or DDS-approved behavioral intervention training
- All Agency required pre-service and annual trainings
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and assist individuals throughout the shift.
- Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and assist with higher levels of physical support when trained.
- Ability to perform physical interventions as trained, if required.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable laws.
Work Environment
- Work is performed in residential homes, community settings, and program sites.
- Requires travel by vehicle and exposure to varying weather conditions.
- Moderate noise level typical of human service environments.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The Agency is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.
