Direct Support Professional (DSP)- DDCS Program

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – DDCS Program

Vancouver, WA

Starting Pay: $22.00/hour (DOE)

About us:

AKI provides trauma-informed and culturally responsive residential services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Our programs focus on building independence, ensuring safety, and fostering meaningful relationships so that individuals can thrive in their homes and communities.

Job Summary:

We are seeking dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our DDCS residential program. DSPs play an integral role in providing individualized support, structured activities, and safe supervision to the people we serve.

In this part-time role, you will work one-on-one and in group settings to implement care plans, support daily living skills, provide transportation to essential activities, and foster a positive home environment.

Responsibilities:

• Support individuals in achieving personal goals and following individualized care plans.
• Ensure a safe, structured, and supportive living environment.
• Provide transportation for appointments, community outings, and essential activities.
• Administer medications accurately and maintain thorough documentation.
• Assist with household tasks, structured activities, and behavioral interventions.
• Collaborate with families, social workers, and team members to ensure comprehensive care.
• Maintain professional boundaries while building rapport and trust.
• Accurately complete logs, case notes, and confidential files.
• Attend regular staff meetings and required trainings.
• Follow all agency policies, behavioral intervention strategies, and reporting requirements.

Abilities:

• Work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Apply conflict resolution strategies and provide supportive guidance.
• Thrive in a team environment with initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
• Adapt to flexible schedules including evenings and weekends.
• Engage with individuals experiencing multiple disabilities or mental health challenges.
• Use basic computer programs (Word, Excel, databases, Outlook).
• Show a strong commitment to learning and professional development.

Education and Work Experience:

• At least 21 years of age.
• High School Diploma or GED required; additional training/experience in human services preferred.
• Minimum of 1 year employment experience in the child welfare field working with adolescents in a social service setting
• Residential Core 40-hour and DSHS Basic Training required (or willingness to complete).
• Nurse Delegation, NAR, CNA, or HCA certification encouraged, but not required.

Other Requirements:

• Pass a DCYF criminal history background check.
• Meet agency driving requirements.

Values:

Our THRIVE values best describe how we do this work:

● Tenacity

This means we are don’t give up on the youth we work with. We get to know their strengths and barriers and are unconditional and unyielding in our care despite setbacks.

● Health (relationships, bodies, futures and fun)

The four basic pillars of an effective human life are healthy relationships with our selves, families and peers; physically healthy bodies and minds; a belief and active pursuit of a future of contribution and possibility; and engagement in healthy hobbies and recreation. A+K Ingenuity’s program philosophy and practices are anchored on these four pillars.

● Relentless commitment to quality and transparency

We understand that high quality programming and practices require a reflective commitment to achieving outcomes. Transparency with our youth, families and care team partners allow us to monitor progress, refine approaches, and continually identify areas where we can improve.

● Innovation

Solutions to the complexities of trauma and its manifestations in the youth and families we serve require a steadfast attunement to current and evolving best-practices. Through a culture of continuous learning and active participation with our partner agencies, we pursue and implement innovative practices.

● Visionary advocacy

We advocate on behalf of youth in our care to receive the supports and services in their schools, families, and communities they need to thrive. This also entails advocating on behalf of systems improvements that address barriers and advance opportunities.

● Equity and inclusion

Respect and value of all people; clients, families, partners, and employees, is central to advancing our mission and vision. We ensure all youth and families cultures, beliefs, values and preferences are reflected in every aspect of their treatment.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Are you available to work part-time Thursday–Sunday (swing shift 4:30pm/5pm-11pm)?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• child welfare/adolescent care: 1 year (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Vancouver, WA 98664 (Required)

Work Location: In person