Job Description

About the Role

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities by providing compassionate and personalized support. This position focuses on assisting individuals in achieving their personal goals, promoting independence, and fostering community integration. The DSP will work closely with clients to support their daily living activities, including personal care, social engagement, and skill development. By building trusting relationships, the DSP helps create a safe and nurturing environment that encourages growth and self-advocacy. Ultimately, the role contributes to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives within their communities.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to individuals in accordance with their individualized service plans.
• Assist with daily living activities such as hygiene, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility support.
• Encourage and facilitate participation in community activities, social events, and skill-building opportunities.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, reporting concerns to supervisors as needed.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, families, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Demonstrated compassion and patience in working with individuals with disabilities.
• Basic communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to complete any required training or certification related to direct support services.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a caregiving or support role with individuals with disabilities.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Knowledge of person-centered planning and positive behavioral support techniques.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed.
• Familiarity with community resources and services available to individuals with disabilities.

Skills

In this role, strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for building rapport and effectively supporting individuals with diverse needs. Problem-solving and adaptability are frequently applied to respond to changing situations and client preferences. Organizational skills are important for maintaining accurate documentation and managing multiple responsibilities throughout the day. Empathy and patience are critical in fostering a supportive environment that respects each individual's dignity and promotes independence. Additionally, teamwork and collaboration skills enable the DSP to work effectively with families, healthcare providers, and other professionals to deliver holistic care.

Benefits

Merakey offers generous benefits that promote well-being, financial security, and work-life balance, including:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to healthcare advocacy support.
• Retirement plan -- both pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) options available for employee contributions.
• DailyPay -- access your pay when you need it!
• On the Goga well-being platform, featuring self-care tools and resources.
• Access Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services.
• Confidential counseling, legal, and financial services through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships.
• Employee discounts and savings programs on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
• Access to Pryor Online Learning for free online personal development classes.

Learn more about our full benefits package - https://www.merakey.org/careers/benefits

About Merakey

Merakey is a non-profit provider of developmental, behavioral health, and education services. More than 8,000 employees provide support to nearly 40,000 individuals and families throughout 12 states across the country each year. Click here to watch a video about Merakey. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.

Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply!

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Related experience is helpful.
• Driver's license required for community based homes.
• A verifiable high school diploma or GED is preferred