Job Description: Direct Care Worker (DCW)
Position Summary
The Direct Care Worker (DCW) provides non-medical, person-centered care and support to individuals receiving Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). The DCW assists participants with activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), community participation, and other authorized services while promoting independence, dignity, health, safety, and quality of life.
The DCW performs duties in accordance with the participant's Plan of Care, Service Authorization, company policies, and all applicable federal, state, and managed care regulations.
Reports To
Administrator
Essential
Duties and Responsibilities
Personal Care Assistance
Assist with bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, oral hygiene, and personal appearance.
Assist with mobility, transfers, ambulation, positioning, and range-of-motion activities as authorized.
Provide medication reminders (does not administer medications unless permitted by law and company policy).
Observe and report changes in the participant's physical, emotional, or cognitive condition.
Home Support Services
Prepare nutritious meals and assist with feeding when authorized.
Perform light housekeeping related to the participant's care, including
Laundry
Dishwashing
Vacuuming
Dusting: Changing bed linens
Trash removal
Assist with grocery shopping and essential errands as authorized.
Community Participation
Accompany participants to medical appointments and community activities.
Support community integration and participation in social, educational, recreational, or employment activities.
Encourage independence while respecting participant choice.
Documentation
Accurately document services provided each shift.
Complete electronic visit verification (EVV) and required visit documentation.
Report incidents, accidents, injuries, suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation immediately according to company policy.
Maintain timely and accurate records.
Participant Rights
Treat all participants with dignity, courtesy, and respect.
Protect participant confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA.
Support participant choice, independence, privacy, and self-determination.
Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
Safety
Maintain a safe home environment during service delivery.
Follow infection prevention and control procedures.
Use proper body mechanics and safe transfer techniques.
Respond appropriately during emergencies.
Follow universal precautions.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or GED preferred.
Minimum age of 18 years.
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Additional languages are an asset.
Ability to follow written care plans and instructions.
Reliable transportation and valid driver's license if transportation is required.
Ability to pass all required background checks and employment screenings.
Required Employment Clearances
Prior to providing services, employees must successfully complete all applicable screenings required by Pennsylvania law and company policy, which may include:
Criminal background check
Child Abuse Clearance (when applicable)
FBI fingerprint clearance (when applicable)
Tuberculosis screening
Employment eligibility verification
Any additional screenings required by regulatory agencies or managed care organizations
Required Training
Employees must successfully complete orientation and all mandatory training before working independently, including but not limited to:
Participant rights
Person-centered services
HIPAA and confidentiality
Infection prevention and control
Emergency procedures
Incident reporting
Abuse, neglect, and exploitation prevention
Cultural competency
Body mechanics and safe transfers
Documentation and EVV
CPR/First Aid (if required)
Annual mandatory in-service education
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Compassion and respect for others
Dependability and professionalism
Excellent interpersonal communication skills
Ability to work independently
Strong observation and reporting skills
Good time management and organizational skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality
Commitment to person-centered care
Physical Requirements
The employee must be able to
Sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, reach, and climb stairs.
Lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
Assist participants with transfers and mobility when authorized.
Perform repetitive movements involving hands and arms.
Travel between participant homes.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work Environment
Services are provided in participants' homes and community settings. Employees may be exposed to varying home environments, pets, weather conditions during travel, and routine household cleaning products.
Professional Standards
Employees are expected to
Maintain punctuality and attendance.
Wear appropriate attire and identification.
Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and professionalism.
Maintain professional boundaries.
Follow all Prestige Home Care LLC policies and procedures.
Participate in supervision, competency evaluations, and continuing education.
Support the organization's mission, vision, and values.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Prestige Home Care LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.
Employee Acknowledgment
I acknowledge that I have received, read, and understand the responsibilities and expectations outlined in this job description. I understand that this document describes the general nature of the position and does not constitute an employment contract. Prestige Home Care LLC reserves the right to modify job duties as business needs require.
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