Direct Support Professional / Job Coach (Full-Time)

DSP Job CoachProgressive Directions, Inc. (PDI) is hiring a full-time DSP Job Coach for our MAPS Program in Dickson, Tennessee to work directly with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.This is not a traditional caregiving role. As a MAPs Job Coach, you will help participants build the skills, confidence, connections, and independence they need to work, live more independently, use technology, explore their community, and pursue hobbies and interests they choose for themselves.ScheduleFull-TimeApproximately 40 hours per weekNon-Exempt/Hourly PositionFlexible schedule required based on participant needsMay include days, afternoons, evenings, nights, and weekendsThe MAPs Coach reports directly to the MAPs Program Director and does not have supervisory responsibilities.What You'll DoEmployment & Career DevelopmentHelp participants:Explore career interests and employment opportunitiesObtain, maintain, and advance in competitive integrated employmentDevelop workplace and pre-employment skillsReceive on-the-job coaching and supportExplore customized employment and self-employment opportunitiesFind volunteer and internship opportunitiesDevelop career goalsConnect with benefits counseling and employment resourcesIndependent Living SkillsSupport participants as they learn skills such as:Home safetyPersonal hygiene and self-careHealth managementMeal planning and basic food preparationGrocery shopping and budgetingPersonal money managementHousehold responsibilitiesUsing enabling technology to increase independenceCommunity NavigationHelp participants:Identify activities, organizations, and community resources that match their interestsBuild relationships and natural supports within their communityLearn how to navigate their neighborhoodsDevelop transportation and travel skillsParticipate in community activitiesWork toward traveling more independentlyEnabling TechnologySupport participants in learning how to use technology that can increase independence at:HomeWorkSchool or trainingCommunity activitiesTransportationDaily livingTechnology may include tablets, smartphones, apps, remote supports, reminders, scheduling tools, and other enabling technology.Essential ResponsibilitiesProvide direct and remote support to MAPs participants based on their individualized goals.Help participants work toward goals established throughout Years 1, 2, and 3 of the MAPs program.Work with the MAPs Program Director to develop individualized community resource maps.Promote participant choice, independence, dignity, respect, self-determination, and quality of life.Encourage participants to make informed choices and take an active role in setting their own goals.Help participants develop skills rather than simply completing tasks for them.Maintain participant safety while encouraging independence and appropriate risk-taking.Document services, activities, observations, progress, and participant responses accurately and on time.Maintain confidentiality of participant information.Communicate concerns or changes involving participants to the MAPs Program Director.Administer medications according to Medication Safety requirements when applicable.Maintain professional relationships with participants, families, natural supports, employers, community partners, and other resources.Attend required meetings and training.Follow all PDI policies, procedures, safety requirements, and emergency procedures.Perform other duties as assigned.Why PDI?For 50 years, Progressive Directions, Inc.

has supported people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Tennessee.Our mission is simple: Helping the people we support attain personal success through Pride, Dignity, and Independence.The MAPs program takes that mission even further by helping participants build the skills, technology, community connections, and confidence needed to create the life they choose.If you want a job where your work can directly help someone gain greater independence at home, at work, and in their community, we encourage you to apply.Progressive Directions, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.RequirementsWhat We're Looking ForSuccessful MAPs Coaches are patient, dependable, creative, encouraging, and comfortable helping someone learn to do things for themselves rather than doing everything for them. You should also have:Excellent verbal, written, and listening communication skillsBasic computer and tablet skillsComfort learning and using new technologyAbility to provide both in-person and remote supportsStrong organization and documentation skillsAbility to work independentlyReliable and consistent attendanceAbility to maintain professional boundaries and confidentialityA genuine commitment to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving greater independenceMinimum QualificationsMust be at least 18 years of ageHigh school diploma or equivalentValid unrestricted driver's licenseAbility to utilize enabling technologyAbility to successfully complete required MAPs certifications and trainingAbility to successfully complete CPR and First Aid certificationAbility to successfully complete Medication Administration training when requiredAbility to complete Relias and other required PDI trainingEmployment RequirementsEmployment is contingent upon successfully completing applicable requirements, including:Criminal background screeningDrug TestRequired registry and employment eligibility checksTB screening or assessment within required timeframesAny additional security or program-related clearancesRequired MAPs and PDI training and certificationsPhysical RequirementsThis position may require employees to sit, stand, and walk for varying periods of time.

Depending on the needs of the person being supported, employees may also need to bend, stoop, kneel, push, pull, assist with transfers or mobility, and lift or support up to approximately 50 pounds.