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- Tasks: Support individuals with daily activities and promote self-advocacy in a residential setting.
- Company: Advocates is a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing care for individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Benefits: Starting pay of $18.50/hour, flexible shifts, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive and inclusive community.
- Qualifications: High school diploma required; experience with diverse populations preferred.
- Other info: Join a strong-knit team that values your ideas and contributions!
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Overview
- Starting rate $18.50/hour*
Advocates is seeking enthusiastic, motivated team players to provide valuable care to individuals in a residential setting!
Advocates promotes a healthy work-life balance and offers many generous perks of employment and room for advancement. We are a strong-knit community that values the ideas and contributions from our staff.
The Direct Support Staff position is an entry-level role where you can support individuals with developmental disabilities and start your career in human services! In the Direct Support Staff role, you will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling directly to individuals served in a residential setting. You will be responsible for assisting residents with activities of daily living such as cooking, personal hygiene, and dressing. You will also be responsible for administering and managing medication, following Individual Support Plans (ISPs), transporting residents to appointments when needed, and completing shift notes. Direct Support staff ensure the program is a welcoming, comfortable and safe environment. You will get to work closely with parents and/or guardians to collaborate on how to best support each individual. You will also support residents of the program with community integration by doing things such as group activities, taking trips to events, and volunteering.
Are you ready to make a difference?
Minimum Education Required
High School Diploma/GED
Shift
First Shift
Additional Shift Details
Sat 9a-3p
Sun 9a-1p
Responsibilities
- Support individuals in daily activities inside their home and in the community by promoting self-advocacy, decision-making and empowerment. Provide guidance and role modeling as appropriate.
- Assist individuals with planning and implementation of daily activity schedules and routines.
- Assist individuals to identify and develop person-centered goals and plans to address any concerns, wants or needs.
- Encourage active participation in community events and other integrated activities.
- Assist individuals with home maintenance and perform cleaning responsibilities.
- Document shift notes summarizing any applicable occurrences, observations, concerns or progress.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent degree. Experience working with the population preferred!
- Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to utilize basic computer applications.
- Desire to thrive in a fast-paced, client-centered, team-oriented environment.
- Must hold a valid driver\’s license, have access to an operational and insured vehicle and be willing to use it to transport clients.
- Strongly prefer a candidate that will have a demonstrated understanding of and competence in serving culturally diverse populations.
Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.
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Direct Support Staff (Relief) employer: Advocates
Contact Detail:
Advocates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Direct Support Staff (Relief)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. Understanding their challenges and how to support them effectively will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have, even if it's informal. Whether it's volunteering, caring for family members, or participating in community activities, showcasing your hands-on experience can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of Advocates. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to teamwork and collaboration. Since this role involves working closely with others, demonstrating your ability to work well in a team will be crucial in making a positive impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Direct Support Staff (Relief)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Direct Support Staff (Relief) position. Understand the responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any experience you have working with individuals with developmental disabilities or in similar roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in interpersonal communication and support.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your strong written and verbal communication skills, as well as your ability to work in a fast-paced, client-centred environment. Mention any relevant training or certifications that align with the job requirements.
Personalise Your Application: Craft a personalised cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm for the role and the values of Advocates. Mention why you want to work in this field and how you can contribute to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Advocates
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In the Direct Support Staff role, your enthusiasm for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities is crucial. Be prepared to share personal experiences or motivations that highlight your commitment to making a difference in people's lives.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this position. During the interview, showcase your ability to listen actively and express yourself clearly. You might even want to provide examples of how you've successfully communicated in past roles or situations.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
Advocates values team players, so be ready to discuss your experience working collaboratively. Share specific instances where you contributed to a team effort, especially in a fast-paced or client-centered environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and judgement in real-life situations. Think about potential scenarios you might face as a Direct Support Staff member and how you would handle them, focusing on promoting self-advocacy and empowerment.
