Direct Support Professional -Self-Direction

Direct Support Professional - Self‑Direction I. SUMMARY

Provide direct support services to individuals with developmental disabilities in their own home and community settings under New York State's OPWDD Self‑Direction program (with The Arc Otsego acting as the Employer of Record). The Self‑Direction Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for delivering person‑centered supports as outlined in each individual's self‑directed plans and goals, while ensuring all services are provided in compliance with OPWDD Self‑Direction guidance and agency policies.

The Self‑Direction DSP works under the guidance of the You Direct Manager and in collaboration with the individual/family.

• Provide individually chosen, person‑centered support to the individual throughout all scheduled service times in their home and community.
• Engage the person in meaningful activities and skill‑building opportunities based on their interests and choices.
• Ensure that activities are age‑appropriate, meaningful, promote health and well‑being, and support participation in community life.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment in the individual's home and community locations.
• Assist with household tasks as needed to support a healthy and positive living environment.
• Follow all individualized support plans including Staff Action Plans, behavior plans, dining guidelines, and health care instructions.
• Implement strategies and safeguards as outlined in the person's plan.
• Collect and document service data according to plan requirements and agency procedures.
• Track progress toward individual goals and maintain accurate daily records.
• Interact with the person in a respectful, age‑appropriate manner that promotes dignity and independence.
• Assist with self‑care tasks such as hygiene, dressing, meals, and mobility as needed.
• Monitor health and safety, respond appropriately to incidents, and follow all safety procedures.
• Report incidents and concerns promptly to the FI Direct Manager.
• Communicate regularly with the FI Direct Manager and the person's family or representative.
• Participate in required staff meetings, supervision sessions, and agency‑provided training.
• Maintain certifications such as CPR/First Aid and complete annual required training.
• Represent The Arc Otsego positively in community interactions and while supporting the person in public.
• Adhere to all Arc Otsego and OPWDD Self‑Direction policies and procedures.
• Support each person in achieving the life they want through choice‑driven, respectful supports.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the FI Direct Manager to meet program or individual needs.
• This position requires a two‑week separation notice.

This position requires no supervisory responsibilities.

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 an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

High School Diploma or GED is preferred. Completion of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program is a plus. Previous experience and/or training in a similar field (supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in community settings) will be considered in lieu of the educational preference.

To perform the job successfully, an individual must be able to demonstrate the following competencies:
Sound decision making and judgment, interpersonal skills, planning/organizing, strategic thinking, time management and delegating. The ability to work independently in multiple settings. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write reports/correspondence and good communication and writing skills.

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole…