American Sign Language (ASL) Direct Support Professional-(ICF)

Description: SIGN\-ON BONUS OF $750 FOR NEW HIRES!!!! **Position Summary** The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides essential care and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who are **Deaf or Hard of Hearing** and communicate primarily through **American Sign Language (ASL)**. This position is within an Intermediate Care Facility (ICF/IDD) setting and focuses on supporting individuals with medically complex needs while ensuring effective communication, safety, dignity, and quality of life. **Only candidates who are fluent in ASL will be interviewed.** **Available Shifts** * **Day Shift:** 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM * **Evening Shift:** 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM * **Overnight Shift:** 12:00 AM – 8:00 AM **Who Should Apply?** This position is ideal for individuals seeking hands\-on experience in healthcare, including: * Are fluent in **American Sign Language (ASL)** * Have experience or interest in working with individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing * LPN or RN students looking for direct patient care experience * Medical Assistant students or Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) seeking to expand their skills * Individuals with experience in nursing homes, home healthcare, or assisted living facilities * Anyone passionate about supporting individuals with disabilities and improving their quality of life Requirements: **Essential Responsibilities** * **ASL Communication Support** – Communicate directly with individuals using American Sign Language to support daily needs, emotional expression, healthcare coordination, and community engagement. * Assist individuals with ADLs, including bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, transfers, and mobility support. * Administer routine morning wake\-up and nighttime hygiene care. * Provide perineal care and assistance with showers. * Offer mouth, skin, hair, and nail care. * Assist individuals in using adaptive devices for ADLs. **Health \& Medical Assistance** * Monitored health conditions and assisted with medication per policy. * Support with medical treatments, including tracheostomy care, feeding tubes, and oxygen therapy. * Participate in turning and repositioning routines and other skin care prevention protocols. * Inspect skin regularly and report any issues to the RN. * Use pressure\-relieving devices under the direction of an RN. **Meals** * Prepare individuals for meals and provide hygiene before and after. * Feed or assist with feeding as needed. * Provide fresh drinking water regularly. * Accurately record intake and output, as well as totals, by the end of the shift. **Elimination Needs** * Assist with toileting and hygiene after use. * Measure and record urine output and other elimination accurately. * Document elimination totals at end of shift. **Safety** * Provide assistance and periodic observation to prevent falls. * Immediately report unsafe conditions. * Adhere to established policies and procedures regarding the use of restraints. * Perform assigned equipment checks and report malfunctions promptly. * Participate in routine safety checks, toileting, turning, and repositioning. **Emotional \& Behavioral Support** * Implement behavior, support plans, and provide companionship **Household \& Safety Management** * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe living environment. * Prepare meals tailored to individual dietary needs. * Follow infection control procedures. **Community Engagement \& Skill Development** * Support participation in social, recreational, and skill\-building activities. **Documentation \& Compliance** * Maintain accurate records of daily care in Therap. * Adhere to ICF/IDD regulations and HIPAA guidelines. **Customer Service** * Demonstrate tact, diplomacy, and sensitivity with individuals, families, and staff. * Maintain confidentiality and professionalism. * Use clear, concise verbal communication. * Keep open communication with peers and escalate concerns to supervisors as needed. **Qualifications \& Requirements** * **Education:** A high school diploma or GED is required (CNA, DSP, or healthcare\-related training preferred). * **Fluency in American Sign Language is required** * ASL certification or formal ASL training **preferred, not required** * Candidates **without ASL certification must successfully pass an ASL proficiency assessment** as a condition of employment * **Experience:** Previous experience in healthcare, ICF/IDD, nursing homes, or group home settings preferred. * **Physical Requirements:** Must be able to lift, bend, and stand for extended periods. **Required Certifications:** * CPR \& First Aid (Required) * Obtaining and maintaining a TME or CMT Certification * Crisis Prevention Training (Preferred) * Food Handler (Preferred) **Additional Requirements:** * Proof of **COVID\-19 Vaccination** * Valid **Driver’s License** * Current **Physical \& TB/PPD Exam** * Consent to a **comprehensive statewide and national criminal background investigation** + Individuals with a criminal background must provide proof of adjudication or completion of their sentences. + Clear and convincing evidence of rehabilitation must be provided to Innovative Life Solutions. * Consent to and pass a **review of the Department of Motor Vehicles record** * Subject to **random drug testing** + Refusal to take a requested drug test will be grounds for dismissal. **Benefits** * **$750 Sign\-On Bonus for New Hires** * **Flexible Scheduling** – Choose from day, evening, or overnight shifts * **Career Growth Opportunities** – Gain valuable healthcare experience for future career advancement * **Meaningful Work** – Directly impact the lives of individuals with disabilities in a supportive environment * **Collaborative Team Environment** – Work with licensed Healthcare, i.e., LPNs and RNs dedicated to high\-quality care