Why Join UCS:

For over 65 years, UCS has been providing exceptional and thoughtful care to individuals and families in our community through programs, services, and educational opportunities. Our staff includes positions such as administration, clinicians, nurses, teachers, case managers, psychiatrists, and direct support providers who work within our 15 facilities to support over 3,000 individuals annually. We are proud to be part of Vermont Care Partners, a network of sixteen agencies that provide mental health, substance use disorder, and developmental-disability services and supports in every county in Vermont. We are looking for team players to join us in making a difference in the lives of others and building a stronger community.

UCS Offers Generous Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Generous paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Employer paid life insurance
• Employer paid short term and long term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Career development opportunities
• Free clinical supervision towards licensure
• Loan repayment and tuition assistance program
• Award winning worksite wellness program
• An inclusive workplace supported by an active Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee.
• Rewarding experience making a difference in the community.

We believe a dynamic and inclusive workforce will strengthen our organization and enhance the services we provide. Therefore, it is our goal to hire a diverse workforce and cultivate a culture where our employees feel accepted and included, hold a valued place within our organization and are equally able to contribute to their fullest extent, assisting in fulfilling our mission of building a stronger community.

The Direct Support Professional - Specialized Services is responsible for providing individualized supports to a person with an intellectual disability or Autism Spectrum Disorder residing in the community. This position is one of several providing 24/7 supervision to a high-needs individual living either in our Battelle Crisis Stabilization House, in an independent apartment, hotel/motel, or Airbnb.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
DIRECT SERVICE: The Direct Support Professional - Specialized Services provides services in a respectful, friendly, and professional manner that supports client choice. Responsibilities include facilitating conversation and activities of interest to the individual, providing guidance, companionship, emotional support and supervision for safety. The Specialized Services Provider follows Specialized Services regulations as set forth by Medicaid and follows the individual's treatment plan to provide specific and meaningful supports.

Advocate on behalf of consumers with family, peers, and community members, as needed. Introduce consumers to community resources and facilitate usage. Encourage and support participation in community events. Teach consumers safety skills in all aspects of community and home life. Teach, instruct, and role model appropriate community and social behavior and expectations, as needed. Monitor emotional and physical well-being; administer medications as appropriate; educate and assist with personal care as required; attend medical appointments and ensure appropriate follow-up is occurring; provide transportation to desired activities, community events, and appointments. Collaborate with clinical staff to ensure mental health needs are being met.

Staff will gain knowledge of how to appropriately safety plan for community outings and activities, have knowledge of Vermont's public safety best practices and will support the individual in adhering to their court conditions of release and/or ACT 248 orders when applicable.

RECORD KEEPING: The Direct Support Professional - Specialized Services collects data as required by the individuals' ISA and behavior support plans. Completes Developmental Services and agency paperwork including, but not limited to, submitting accurate daily and weekly time sheets, expense sheets, and monthly documentation in a timely manner.

NETWORKING: The Direct Support Professional - Specialized Services provides needed information to other staff, professionals, and team members in a professional confidential manner. Serves as advocate and/or liaison on behalf of individual served, the Developmental Services Division and UCS. Participates as a problem-solver in "team," "care plan," and other meetings.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
High School Diploma or Equivalent. Relevant experience in human services field preferred.
Valid Driver's License

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