Central Aroostook Association - Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP)-Internal chez Central Aroostook Association

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The Lead Direct Support Professional (Lead DSP) assists the Home Manager while providing direct care and support to adults with developmental disabilities. This role involves helping individuals develop daily living skills, build independence, and stay active and engaged at home and in their community. The Lead DSP also helps guide and support other DSPs, ensuring quality care, teamwork, and compliance with all agency and state standards.

 Leadership & Oversight

• Support the Home Manager by monitoring care quality and ensuring person-centered plans and behavioral supports are followed.
• Act as a mentor and resource for DSPs—answering questions, assisting with challenges, and providing feedback.
• Help train and onboard new DSPs, promoting teamwork and high standards of care.
• Assist with scheduling and fill open shifts when needed.
• Share on-call responsibilities with the Home Manager and cover Home Manager duties during absences as needed.

Direct Support & Care

• Provide hands-on support with daily living activities, hygiene, meals, and personal care.
• Support consumers in meeting social, physical, behavioral, and safety goals outlined in their person-centered plans.
• Transport individuals to and from community or work activities (may include driving a 12–15 passenger vehicle).
• Encourage skill development, independence, and community involvement.
• Administer medications and document according to agency and DHHS regulations.
• Use approved techniques  to ensure safety, including de-escalation and, when necessary, protective physical intervention.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, timely, and objective documentation, including progress notes, incident reports, and medication logs.
• Assist with audits and compliance checks as needed.
• Communicate effectively with families, case managers, healthcare providers, and coworkers.

Team & Environment

• Foster a positive, respectful, and supportive team environment.
• Help maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming home or program environment.
• Uphold confidentiality and follow all agency and state policies.

Qualifications, Education & Training

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must obtain or maintain the following certifications (within designated timeframes):
  • Certified Residential Medication Aide (CRMA) – within 6 months
  • CPR/First Aid – within 3 months
  • Safety Care – within 3 months
  • Direct Support Professional (DSP) Certification – within 6 months

Experience & Skills

• Minimum of one year of experience working with adults with developmental disabilities preferred.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage emotional or physical emergencies calmly and professionally.
• Comfortable assisting with all aspects of personal care and hygiene.
• Must have a valid Maine driver’s license and be insurable under agency policy.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Regularly required to stand, walk, lift, and assist with mobility (up to 50 lbs frequently, up to 100 lbs occasionally).
• May work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Must be able to respond to emergencies and support individuals with challenging behaviors.
• Exposure to noise, cleaning chemicals, and potential bloodborne pathogens may occur.