Direct Support Professional

Location: Gorham, Maine

We are hiring full time DSP's to work either a night shift or a day shift!

Goodwill Northern New England — good works here!

At Goodwill, we believe in the power of work to transform lives. As a nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to helping individuals facing barriers to employment find meaningful work opportunities. When you join our team, you become part of a community passionate about making a positive impact.

Here, you'll be part of a team that values collaboration, respect, and diversity. We celebrate each team member's unique strengths and abilities, fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. Working together creates a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for our customers, clients, and fellow employees.

BENEFITS:

In addition to employment that is fulfilling, meaningful, and supportive, Goodwill employees also receive:

• Medical, Vision, and Dental benefits
• Telehealth services for physical and mental well-being
• 30% Employee discount at Goodwill stores in ME, NH & VT.
• Generous PTO Plan
• Valuable job training with growth potential
• And more!

What makes Goodwill NNE special is how much we care about our employees. We offer "life navigation" services, which means you can get free counseling and help if you're going through tough times. Goodwill NNE is all about creating a friendly and respectful workplace. We want everyone to be kind, open, good listeners, and supportive of each other. When you join the Goodwill NNE team, you're not just getting a job; you're becoming part of a community that looks out for its employees and their well-being.

Job Summary:

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities and/or brain injuries. Their primary focus is to enhance the quality of life and promote the independence of those they serve. Duties for a DSP include:

• Assist with personal care and hygiene tasks such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting.
• Assist with Daily Living Activities such as cooking, cleaning, managing finances, and organizing their living spaces, empowering them to become more self-reliant and lead fulfilling lives.
• Provide guidance and support in developing and improving interpersonal and communication skills. They encourage meaningful interactions and help individuals build positive relationships with those around them.
• Recognize and manage challenging behaviors to ensure a safe and secure environment for those they support.
• Maintain detailed records of the care and support they provide, adhering to program standards and ensuring that important information is readily available to the individual's care team and healthcare professionals.
• Advocate for the individuals they serve, helping to ensure their voices are heard, and their needs are met within the community and the healthcare system.
• Undergo additional training and certifications to better serve individuals with specialized needs, such as those with autism, traumatic brain injuries, or other specific conditions.
• Offer emotional and psychological support, helping individuals cope with the challenges they face and offering reassurance and encouragement to boost their confidence and self-esteem

Requirements:

• High School diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• A criminal background check that meets Agency and State standards
• willingness to complete required certifications

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Training or certifications in relevant areas, such as First Aid/CPR, medication administration (CRMA), or specialized support techniques.
• Fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) a plus
• Three (3) years with the Agency or Three (3) years of related experience
• Associate degree in a healthcare-related field