Position Summary
The Personal Support Specialist (PSS) provides non-medical, in-home support services to clients in accordance with their individualized Service Plan. PSS staff assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) to promote independence, dignity, and quality of life while ensuring services are delivered safely, respectfully, and in compliance with Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) rules.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide personal care assistance as identified in the client’s Service Plan, which may include:
- Bathing, grooming, toileting, dressing, eating, and mobility support.
- Transfers and positioning.
- Basic personal hygiene.
- Support Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), such as:
- Light housekeeping and laundry.
- Meal preparation and assistance with eating.
- Shopping and errands.
- Communication support (reading, writing, phone use).
- Document services provided at each visit in accordance with agency policy and Maine DHHS requirements (date, time in/out, tasks completed, worker signature).
- Immediately report any changes in client condition, concerns, or grievances to the Supervisor.
- Follow infection control policies and maintain a safe, clean environment.
- Protect client confidentiality at all times and comply with HIPAA and agency confidentiality standards.
- Participate in orientation, annual training, and supervisory visits as required.
- Uphold professional conduct, ethical standards, and agency expectations, including maintaining appropriate boundaries with clients.
Minimum Qualifications
- Completion of a DHHS-approved Personal Support Specialist (PSS) training program, or enrollment within 60 days of hire with completion required within 9 months.
- OR active CNA certification listed on the Maine CNA & Direct Care Worker Registry.
- Must pass all required background checks (MBCC, APS, CPS).
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Ability to read, write, and follow written care instructions in English.
- Reliable transportation to client homes and ability to work independently.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds as needed.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and transferring clients.
- Ability to safely perform all ADL/IADL tasks listed in the Service Plan.
Additional Requirements
- Attend initial orientation and annual in-service training.
- Participate in required supervisory visits and performance reviews.
- Maintain professional appearance and behavior while representing the agency.