Direct Support Professional - $17-$18/hour presso Via of the Lehigh Valley

Description

Join Via of the Lehigh Valley, a 2023, 2024, and 2025 Top Workplace winner! We are hiring a Direct Support Professional to assist in either our Community Connections Department, Small Group Employment Department, or Adult Training Facility Department.  No experience? No problem — we provide paid training to make sure you feel ready and supported.
 

Via is now offering an increased pay rate of $17-$18/hour determined by education level. Additionally, earn up to $1.75 more per hour by completing all three levels of the National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) Career Ladder Program.

You will ENJOY the following when working at VIA:

• Medical, vision and dental benefits at a minimal cost to the employee. We offer two plans to choose from!
• 15 days (3 weeks) of paid vacation during your first year, increasing to 18 days after completing 1 year of employment.
• 9 paid Holidays. Including YOUR Birthday Holiday! Employees also receive a Floating Cultural Holiday! Via is committed to maintaining an inclusive workforce and believes that an atmosphere of mutual respect for each other’s differences adds quality to our services. Eligible employees may choose a paid day off, that is significant to them.
• 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with discretionary annual match.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Education assistance up to $5,000 per year for full-time employees.
• Education incentive: earn MORE when you obtain a degree or certification.
• Paid Training and mileage reimbursement.
• Professional Development Opportunities: NADSP Career Ladder Program – earn an additional $1.75/hour once all three levels have been completed.
• Employee Assistance Program, which full-time employees are able to access on their first date of hire. The Employee Assistance Program provides additional support such as counseling, employee/family financial services, employee/family legal services, employee/family work-life services, etc.
• Employee referral-bonus program.
• Special employee events such as raffles, work anniversary celebrations, recognition awards and monthly celebration events

As a Direct Support Professional you will:

• Assist individuals with disabilities in attaining their social and vocational goals.
• Engage in a variety of community activities, such as, visiting museums, attending local events and volunteering.
• Use your creativity to plan activities for the individuals you support.
• Collaborate with fellow team members.
• Complete job analysis as needed to develop and implement effective training plans for supported employees.
• Identify existing natural supports currently at the job site and develop additional supports to assist the individual in maintaining employment.
• Provides instruction and oversees quality control.
• Continually assist in identifying and recommending changes in work methods to improve effectiveness and efficiency.
• Give frequent and systematic feedback to host employer and supervisor regarding site progress.

Position Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• One (1) year of experience working with individuals in community or employment settings is preferred.
• Ability to work in a variety of settings and function in an ever-changing environment.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, personal vehicle and appropriate vehicle insurance.
• Standing, sitting, lifting, walking is required daily. 
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds is required. 
• Scheduling flexibility is required and includes days, some evenings and weekends
• Use of technology platforms such as Setworks, Paylocity, Microsoft Office, and email is required daily. 
• Ability to adapt to changing schedules while maintaining productivity and efficiency.
• Must be flexible and able to adapt to a variety of environments.

We invest in our team through training, career development and educational assistance. Our team enjoys a supportive work environment that encourages the success of the individuals we serve and our employees. This success comes from living our values: People, Growth, Teamwork, Community, Diversity, Shared Ideas and Advocacy. Join our team and grow a fulfilling career with us!

CHANGE LIVES. WORK FOR VIA.

Via of the Lehigh Valley is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Women, Minorities, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.