Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Queens

The Direct Support Professional position at AHRC New York City is unique because it offers the opportunity to truly enrich the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. You’ll engage directly with residents, promoting their community involvement and helping them learn essential life skills, making every day rewarding and impactful.

Direct Support Professionals at AHRC NYC in Queens are typically assigned to the evening shift from 4 PM to 12 AM. This schedule allows you to balance work and personal life while being a crucial support during those hours when individuals need assistance.

To become a Direct Support Professional at AHRC NYC, you should ideally have personal or professional experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Other key qualifications include excellent communication skills, a high school diploma or GED, and a valid driver’s license for day and evening shifts.

Direct Support Professionals at AHRC NYC enjoy a robust benefits package, which includes full medical insurance paid by the company, paid time off for sick and vacation days, dental and vision insurance, tuition reimbursement, and a 403(b) plan with matching contributions.

AHRC NYC supports the professional development of Direct Support Professionals through paid orientation and training programs, along with opportunities for tuition reimbursement. This commitment ensures that employees are well-prepared and continue to grow their skills while they support residents.

Yes, weekend availability is often required for Direct Support Professionals at AHRC NYC. Flexibility is essential to meet the needs of the individuals you’ll be supporting, as their schedules may include activities and routines requiring assistance over the weekends.

A typical day for a Direct Support Professional at AHRC NYC involves assisting residents with daily living activities, promoting skill development, ensuring safety, and facilitating community inclusion. Each day is unique, as you’ll tailor your support to the specific preferences and needs of the individuals you work with.

When answering this question, share your passion for helping others and any personal experiences that led you to this career. Talk about the satisfaction you find in improving someone's life and how your values align with those of AHRC NYC.

Emphasize your patience and understanding in your response. Discuss specific strategies you've used to de-escalate situations, such as active listening, keeping calm, and using positive reinforcement to encourage behavioral changes.

Highlight any relevant personal or professional experiences where you assisted individuals with daily tasks. Focus on your approach to fostering independence while ensuring safety and comfort.

Discuss strategies you would implement to encourage participation in local events or activities. Highlight the importance of building connections and friendships through inclusive experiences that enrich their lives.

Talk about various techniques you might employ, such as using visual aids, patience in conversation, and actively observing non-verbal cues. Stress the importance of adapting your communication style to meet individual needs.

Provide examples of how you have observed safety protocols, identified potential risks, and implemented solutions to prevent accidents or injuries. Your proactive approach will reflect your commitment to maintaining a safe environment.

Emphasize that empathy is crucial as it helps you better understand the feelings and experiences of those you support. Explain how it informs your interactions and improves the quality of support you offer.

Approach this question by discussing the importance of open communication and collaboration. Share your strategies for resolving conflicts respectfully and ensuring the best interests of the individuals remain the priority.

Describe your methods for prioritizing tasks and managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously. Mention the importance of having a flexible mindset, as well as tools you use, such as checklists or digital reminders.

In your response, express your willingness to go above and beyond for the residents, including being flexible with schedules and continually seeking out opportunities for personal and professional growth within the position. Your enthusiasm will stand out.