Be a Tar Heel!
The Direct Support Professional for IDD position is located at the Carolina Living and Learning Center (CLLC), just north of Pittsboro and next door to Chatham Park, where a variety of new amenities are now available (e.g., Lowe’s Foods, People’s Coffee, Greek Kouzina, the Refuel station). We’re at the intersection of peaceful country living and busy modern life, where we can take advantage of both lifestyles. On our 79 acres, we serve 15 autistic adults with higher support needs. They live in two homes on our beautiful farm, where we also have a barn, a potting shed, and a greenhouse to provide plenty of year-round activities.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to serve this unique, vulnerable population, while collaborating with our dedicated and compassionate staff. We are a diverse community, united by our desire to make a difference in the lives of our residents. There is no more meaningful way to use your professional skills. Plus, we have plenty of free parking and a commitment to work-life balance. Come and join our community!
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The University of North Carolina TEACCH Autism program is system of university-based regional centers to serve autistic children, adolescents and adults and their families. As part of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the program has an active clinical, teaching, and research program. TEACCH operates seven community regional clinics. Our clinics and programs offer a set of core services along with unique demonstration programs meeting the needs of autistic individuals, their families, and professionals across the state of North Carolina. Also, part of TEACCH is the Carolina Living and Learning Center, a residential/vocational training facility for autistic adults as well as an Employment Services program providing Job Coaching and related services to adults on the spectrum.
TEACCH is currently part of the Carolina Institute for Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (CIND) program. All TEACCH programs are coordinated through a central administration and research unit in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
TEACCH provides clinical services such as diagnostic evaluations, psychotherapy, speech language therapy, occupational therapy and parent support groups. In addition, TEACCH conducts training within the state of North Carolina, nationally and internationally and provides consultation for teachers, residential care providers, and other professionals from a variety of disciplines.
TEACCH conducts clinical research focused on providing evidence-based care to autistic individuals and their families in their home communities. Our research examines intervention effectiveness in clinic, school, and community settings. Ongoing research includes a school-based anxiety intervention program, a community college-based transition to adulthood program, a telehealth program treating depression and anxiety in autistic adults, and a physical activity program for autistic adults. Studies also examine the services needs related to early intervention, employment and aging.
TEACCH has 48 full and part-time faculty, 150+ staff and provides training opportunities in both research and clinical activities for interns, postdocs and other graduate and undergraduate students.
This position is located at the CLLC in Pittsboro NC.
Position Summary
A SIGN-ON BONUS OF $1,200 IS AVAILABLE FOR THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT OF THIS POSITION PAID IN 2 INSTALLMENTS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF HIRE $600.00 WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE DATE AND $600.00 12 MONTHS AFTER HIRE DATE.
This position is a direct care staff member who works hands-on with autistic adults with higher support needs in this residential/vocational facility to provide active treatment in the areas of self-help, communication, social and leisure skills, vocational skills, behavioral support and independence.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.
Management Preferences
Professional and/or caregiving experience with autistic, disabled, and/or senior adults is preferred. The ideal candidate has experience with both autism and dementia.
Required Licenses/Certifications
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Physical Requirements
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Lifting and Moving: Ability to lift at least 30 pounds. May be required to assist patients in and out of bed or use mobility devices. Provide patient ambulatory support.
- Mobility: Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, squatting, holding, carrying, and twisting throughout shift – on even and uneven surfaces. Provide assistance with client Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Ability to use physical de-escalation techniques with clients.
- Dexterity: Fine and gross motor skills are needed for assisting with hygiene care, meal preparation, medication administration, and other daily living activities.
- Endurance: Ability to walk at a steady pace or stand for at least 30 minutes consecutively.
Mental Requirements.
- Communication: Clear oral and written communication with patients, families, co-workers, and teams is essential. Ability to observe and recognize changes in client’s mental status, mood, and behavior. Ability to use verbal de-escalation and conflict-resolution techniques effectively.
- Technology: Proficient in using technology, including daily email communication, entering client information into electronic medical records (EMR), and utilizing Microsoft Office applications.
- Stress Management: Ability to remain calm, professional, and effective while working with individuals who may exhibit challenging behaviors, including verbal aggression, physical aggression, self-injurious behaviors, or inappropriate physical contact.
Employees in this position are considered Mandatory Employees of the University, meaning they are required to work during any adverse event that prompts reduced/suspended operations ( such as adverse weather conditions). This position is also a CDME (Communicable Disease Mandatory Employee) as well and required to work during a State of Emergency Order.
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.
Position/Schedule Requirements
Carolina Living and Learning Center, Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens, Overtime occasionally, Patient care involved, Weekend work
