The Advanced Direct Support Professional provides direct care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, utilizing American Sign Language (ASL) to ensure effective communication during daily living assistance and community engagement. This role also involves mentoring other staff on ASL communication best practices and maintaining accurate service documentation.
Requirements summary
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma or GED and be proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) to support deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals. Required qualifications also include reliable transportation and the ability to provide physical support, with prior experience supporting individuals with disabilities being preferred.
Position Overview 3M’s Services LLC is seeking an experienced Advanced Direct Support Professional (DSP) who is proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) to support individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or rely on ASL as their primary method of communication.
This role provides direct care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while ensuring effective communication, person-centered care, and meaningful participation in community and daily living activities.
The Advanced DSP will utilize ASL to facilitate communication between individuals served, staff, families, and community members.
This position may also assist in mentoring other DSP staff on effective communication strategies and best practices when supporting individuals who use ASL.
Key Responsibilities Direct Support & Daily Living Assistance Provide direct support to individuals receiving services in home and community settings.
Assist individuals with community living and daily support needs, promoting independence and person-centered outcomes.
Support and engage individuals in community networking activities, helping them build social connections and participate in meaningful community events.
Provide guidance and support to individuals in developing job readiness skills, including workplace expectations, communication, time management, and appropriate professional behaviors.
Provide respite support services when needed to ensure continuity of care and provide relief to primary caregivers.
Encourage participation in activities that promote independent living skills, community integration, and personal development.
Support individuals in maintaining independence while ensuring their safety and well-being.
ASL Communication Support Utilize American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate effectively with individuals served who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Facilitate communication between individuals, staff members, families, and community members when necessary.
Assist individuals in expressing their needs, preferences, and concerns through effective communication support.
Behavioral Support & Positive Interventions Implement positive behavior support strategies and follow behavior support plans when applicable.
Utilize appropriate de-escalation techniques to support individuals during challenging situations while maintaining a safe and respectful environment.
Advanced Direct Support Professional (ASL Proficient)
Community Engagement & Skill Development Support individuals in participating in community activities, employment opportunities, and recreational programs that promote independence and social engagement.
Assist individuals with developing life skills, communication skills, and workplace readiness when applicable.
Staff Collaboration & Mentorship Support and assist other DSP staff with communication strategies when working with individuals who utilize ASL.
Collaborate with Qualified Professionals (QPs), supervisors, and clinical staff to ensure individualized service plans are implemented effectively.
Documentation & Compliance Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services provided, individual progress, and any incidents or concerns in accordance with agency policies and NCDHHS requirements.
Follow all company policies, HIPAA confidentiality standards, and applicable state service guidelines.
Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED required Proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) required Experience working with individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or utilize ASL Required Previous experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities preferred Knowledge of behavior management techniques and person-centered supports Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and active insurance required Ability to assist with lifting, transfers, and other physical support needs when required Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills
Additional Information
This position requires the ability to communicate fluently using American Sign Language (ASL) to support individuals receiving services. The Advanced DSP may also assist with staff training or communication support when necessary. This job description provides a general overview of responsibilities and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties.
