Direct Support Professional - ASL, ICF

Description

SIGN-ON BONUS OF $750 FOR NEW HIRES!!!!

Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides essential care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and communicate primarily through American Sign Language (ASL). This position is within an Intermediate Care Facility (ICF/IDD) setting and focuses on supporting individuals with medically complex needs while ensuring effective communication, safety, dignity, and quality of life.

Only candidates who are fluent in ASL will be interviewed.

Available Shifts

• Day Shift: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Evening Shift: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Overnight Shift: 12:00 AM – 8:00 AM

Who Should Apply?

This position is ideal for individuals seeking hands-on experience in healthcare, including:

• Are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) 
• Have experience or interest in working with individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing 
• LPN or RN students looking for direct patient care experience
• Medical Assistant students or Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) seeking to expand their skills
• Individuals with experience in nursing homes, home healthcare, or assisted living facilities
• Anyone passionate about supporting individuals with disabilities and improving their quality of life

Requirements

Essential Responsibilities

• ASL Communication Support – Communicate directly with individuals using American Sign Language to support daily needs, emotional expression, healthcare coordination, and community engagement. 
• Assist individuals with ADLs, including bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, transfers, and mobility support.
• Administer routine morning wake-up and nighttime hygiene care.
• Provide perineal care and assistance with showers.
• Offer mouth, skin, hair, and nail care.
• Assist individuals in using adaptive devices for ADLs.

Health & Medical Assistance

• Monitored health conditions and assisted with medication per policy.
• Support with medical treatments, including tracheostomy care, feeding tubes, and oxygen therapy.
• Participate in turning and repositioning routines and other skin care prevention protocols.
• Inspect skin regularly and report any issues to the RN.
• Use pressure-relieving devices under the direction of an RN.

Meals

• Prepare individuals for meals and provide hygiene before and after.
• Feed or assist with feeding as needed.
• Provide fresh drinking water regularly.
• Accurately record intake and output, as well as totals, by the end of the shift.

Elimination Needs

• Assist with toileting and hygiene after use.
• Measure and record urine output and other elimination accurately.
• Document elimination totals at end of shift.

Safety

• Provide assistance and periodic observation to prevent falls.
• Immediately report unsafe conditions.
• Adhere to established policies and procedures regarding the use of restraints.
• Perform assigned equipment checks and report malfunctions promptly.
• Participate in routine safety checks, toileting, turning, and repositioning.

Emotional & Behavioral Support

• Implement behavior, support plans, and provide companionship

Household & Safety Management

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe living environment.
• Prepare meals tailored to individual dietary needs.
• Follow infection control procedures.

Community Engagement & Skill Development

• Support participation in social, recreational, and skill-building activities.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate records of daily care in Therap.
• Adhere to ICF/IDD regulations and HIPAA guidelines.

Customer Service

• Demonstrate tact, diplomacy, and sensitivity with individuals, families, and staff.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Use clear, concise verbal communication.
• Keep open communication with peers and escalate concerns to supervisors as needed.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: A high school diploma or GED is required (CNA, DSP, or healthcare-related training preferred).
• Fluency in American Sign Language is required
• ASL certification or formal ASL training preferred, not required 
• Candidates without ASL certification must successfully pass an ASL proficiency assessment as a condition of employment
• Experience: Previous experience in healthcare, ICF/IDD, nursing homes, or group home settings preferred.
• Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift, bend, and stand for extended periods.

Required Certifications:

• CPR & First Aid (Required)
• Obtaining and maintaining a TME or CMT Certification
• Crisis Prevention Training (Preferred)
• Food Handler (Preferred)

Additional Requirements:

• Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination
• Valid Driver’s License
• Current Physical & TB/PPD Exam
• Consent to a comprehensive statewide and national criminal background investigation
  • Individuals with a criminal background must provide proof of adjudication or completion of their sentences.
  • Clear and convincing evidence of rehabilitation must be provided to Innovative Life Solutions.
• Consent to and pass a review of the Department of Motor Vehicles record
• Subject to random drug testing
  • Refusal to take a requested drug test will be grounds for dismissal.

Benefits

• $750 Sign-On Bonus for New Hires
• Flexible Scheduling – Choose from day, evening, or overnight shifts
• Career Growth Opportunities – Gain valuable healthcare experience for future career advancement
• Meaningful Work – Directly impact the lives of individuals with disabilities in a supportive environment
• Collaborative Team Environment – Work with licensed Healthcare, i.e., LPNs and RNs dedicated to high-quality care