lead Direct Support Professional

Sevita is seeking a Lead Direct Support Professional in our Community & Social Services team within Healthcare & Medical Services. In this role, you'll provide person-centered support to individuals with diverse needs, coach and mentor Direct Support Professionals, and ensure high-quality, compassionate care. You'll coordinate daily activities, advocate for individuals' goals, and promote independence and community inclusion. Sevita offers a collaborative, inclusive culture, ongoing training, and clear career growth opportunities for those committed to improving lives.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct, person-centered support to individuals with disabilities or complex needs in home and community settings.
• Assist with activities of daily living, including personal care, hygiene, meal preparation, and household tasks.
• Support community integration by accompanying individuals to appointments, activities, and social or recreational outings.
• Implement individualized service and behavior support plans, promoting skill-building, independence, and safety.
• Monitor health, behavior, and overall well-being; document observations and promptly report concerns.
• Administer or assist with medication and health-related tasks in accordance with training and policy (where permitted).
• Lead and mentor Direct Support Professionals, modeling best practices and providing on-shift coaching.
• Assist with staff orientation, ongoing training reinforcement, and supporting daily assignments and scheduling needs.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation, including progress notes, incident reports, and service records.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, clinicians, families, and community partners to coordinate care and services.
• Participate in team meetings, case reviews, and quality improvement initiatives, offering input to enhance services.
• Follow all safety, infection control, and regulatory guidelines, including use of de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques.
• Promote a respectful, inclusive environment aligned with Sevita's values of empathy, collaboration, and person-centered care.

Required Skills

• Direct support and personal care skills
• Knowledge of developmental disabilities and behavioral health conditions
• Person-centered planning and support implementation
• Positive behavior support and de-escalation techniques
• Basic health monitoring and medication assistance (per regulations)
• Documentation and record-keeping in healthcare or social services
• Time management and shift leadership
• Staff mentorship and coaching
• Effective verbal and written communication
• Basic computer and electronic health record (EHR) usage
• Community integration and transportation support
• Team collaboration and interdisciplinary coordination
• Crisis intervention awareness and safety practices