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About AME Community Services – A Mission‑Driven Leader in Disability Support
At AME Community Services, we believe that every adult with a developmental disability deserves the chance to live a full, meaningful life within their community. Grounded in more than a decade of experience, our organization delivers person‑centered care that blends compassionate support, evidence‑based practices, and innovative community integration. Our dedicated team of professionals works across a network of homes, day programs, and community settings, empowering individuals to develop skills, pursue personal goals, and enjoy enriching recreational activities.
We are proud of our reputation for fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace where staff are recognized, trained, and encouraged to grow. As we expand our services, especially in our Buffalo locations, we are seeking enthusiastic, reliable, and empathetic Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our mission‑focused family.
Why This Role Is a Career‑Defining Opportunity
Being a Direct Support Professional at AME Community Services isn’t just a job—it’s a stepping stone to a lasting career in human services. You’ll gain hands‑on experience with varied support plans, develop clinical documentation expertise, and cultivate strong relationships with the individuals you serve and their families. Our comprehensive training, mentorship pathways, and clear promotion tracks equip you to evolve from a front‑line caregiver to roles such as Lead DSP, Program Coordinator, or even Clinical Supervisor.
Key Responsibilities – What Your Day Will Look Like
Core Support Functions
- Implement personalized support plans, both formal and informal, ensuring every individual’s unique goals and preferences are honored.
- Assist with daily living activities: personal grooming, bathing, dressing, laundry, meal preparation, and household upkeep.
- Promote independence by teaching functional skills and providing on‑the‑spot coaching as needed.
- Facilitate community outings and leisure activities, encouraging participation in sports, arts, social clubs, and local events.
- Maintain accurate, timely, and legible documentation, including progress notes, medication administration logs, incident reports, and daily staff logs.
- Observe and monitor vital signs, health changes, and behavioral cues, reporting any concerns to supervisory staff promptly.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members—case managers, therapists, nurses—to coordinate holistic care.
Additional Duties to Enrich the Role
- Participate in regular training sessions, including CPR certification, de‑escalation techniques, and person‑centered planning workshops.
- Support peer mentorship programs, sharing best practices with newer staff members.
- Engage families and legal guardians in care planning conversations, fostering transparent communication and trust.
- Assist with scheduling and logistics for weekend and rotating shift coverage, ensuring continuity of support.
- Contribute ideas for program improvement, community partnerships, and innovative recreational options.
Essential Qualifications – The Foundations You Bring
- Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent is required; additional coursework in human services, psychology, or related fields is preferred.
- Experience: Minimum of one year working with adults who have developmental disabilities, or equivalent volunteer/service experience.
- Certifications: Current CPR/BLS certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire).
- Legal Eligibility: Ability to pass background checks, drug screenings, and any required state licensing requirements.
- Physical Ability: Capacity to lift up to 50 lb, assist with mobility transfers, and stand for extended periods.
- Transportation: Reliable personal transportation to commute to the Buffalo, MN location (ZIP 55313) and ability to relocate if not already residing locally.
Preferred Qualifications – What Sets You Apart
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Rehabilitation, or a related discipline.
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Certified Direct Support Professional (CDSP) credentials.
- Experience with behavior support plans, applied behavior analysis (ABA), or trauma‑informed care.
- Fluency in additional languages (e.g., Spanish, French) to serve diverse client populations.
- Demonstrated proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) systems and documentation software.
- Prior leadership experience, such as team lead or shift supervisor roles.
Core Skills and Competencies for Success
- Empathy & Compassion: Genuine desire to improve quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
- Communication: Clear verbal and written skills; ability to convey information to clients, families, and interdisciplinary staff.
- Problem Solving: Quick, calm decision‑making in dynamic or emergency situations.
- Team Collaboration: Ability to work cohesively in a multidisciplinary environment and support peer staff.
- Time Management: Efficiently balance multiple tasks, prioritize client needs, and honor scheduled shifts.
- Adaptability: Comfort with changing schedules, varied shift patterns (day, evening, night, weekend), and evolving client needs.
- Confidentiality: Strict adherence to HIPAA and state privacy regulations.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits – Investing in You
- Hourly Wage: $19.00 – $21.50 per hour, dependent on shift timing. Weekend and evening shift differentials of $2.00 per hour applied automatically.
- Health Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options for full‑time staff.
- Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions after a qualifying service period.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous vacation accrual, paid sick leave, and personal days.
- Training & Development: Paid orientation, ongoing in‑house training, certification reimbursements, and tuition assistance for further education.
- Flexible Scheduling: Variety of shift options—12‑hour rotating weekends, day, evening, and overnight—to accommodate personal commitments.
- Employee Recognition: Quarterly awards, referral bonuses, and a culture of celebration for milestones and achievements.
- Work‑Life Balance: Supportive management that encourages self‑care, mental‑health resources, and a positive, inclusive work environment.
Career Growth Pathways – Your Future at AME Community Services
Our organization is committed to nurturing internal talent. While you start as a Direct Support Professional, there are clear avenues to advance:
- Lead Direct Support Professional: Oversee a small team, coordinate schedules, and act as a primary point of contact for clients and families.
- Program Coordinator: Manage day‑program operations, develop activity curricula, and liaise with community partners.
- Clinical Supervisor: Provide clinical oversight, conduct staff evaluations, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
- Training & Development Specialist: Design and deliver educational modules for new hires and continuing education.
- Administrative Roles: Transition into human resources, operations management, or compliance positions.
Through mentorship, cross‑training, and support for external certifications, we empower you to shape a career that aligns with your passions and professional aspirations.
Work Environment & Culture – Where You’ll Thrive
At AME Community Services, we foster a community‑first mindset. Our Buffalo home offers a welcoming, safe, and accessible environment where staff collaborate closely with the individuals they support. Highlights of our culture include:
- Team‑Oriented Atmosphere: Regular huddles, case reviews, and social events to build camaraderie.
- Diversity & Inclusion: Commitment to respecting each person’s background, identity, and preferences.
- Safety First: Strict adherence to infection control, emergency protocols, and ongoing safety training.
- Recognition Programs: “Employee of the Month,” peer‑nominated awards, and milestone celebrations.
- Community Engagement: Partnerships with local recreation centers, arts groups, and vocational programs that enrich both staff and clients.
Application Process – Take the First Step Toward a Rewarding Career
If you are driven by purpose, possess a caring spirit, and are ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of adults with developmental disabilities, we want to hear from you. Follow these simple steps to apply:
- Visit our career portal at amecommunity.com/employment and complete the online application.
- Submit your up‑to‑date resume highlighting relevant experience, certifications, and any volunteer work.
- Provide a brief cover letter describing why you are passionate about direct support work and how your skills align with the role.
- Our talent acquisition team will review your submission, conduct a preliminary phone interview, and schedule an in‑person or virtual interview with the hiring manager.
- Upon successful completion of the interview process, you will receive a formal job offer, details on start‑date, onboarding schedule, and orientation sessions.
Join AME Community Services – Make an Impact Every Day
Our Direct Support Professionals are the heart of our organization, turning vision into reality for the people we serve. By joining our team, you become part of a legacy of empowerment, advocacy, and excellence. We look forward to welcoming a dedicated professional who is eager to grow, learn, and thrive alongside our clients and colleagues.
Submit Your Application Today
Don’t miss the chance to embark on a fulfilling career path where compassion meets professional development. Click the link below, complete the application, and step into a role that truly matters.
Apply Now – Start Your Journey with AME Community Services
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