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 clients in achieving greater independence, community integration, and personal growth through tailored care and encouragement. The DSP will work closely with clients to support their daily living activities, promote skill development, and ensure their health and safety in various settings. Collaboration with families, healthcare providers, and other team members is essential to create and implement individualized support plans. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to fostering a respectful, empowering, and inclusive environment that promotes dignity and self-determination for each individual served.

Job Responsibilities

• Assist clients with daily living activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility support.
• Implement individualized support plans designed to promote client independence and skill development.
• Provide companionship and emotional support to encourage social interaction and community participation.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, reporting concerns to supervisors as needed.
• Ensure a safe and clean environment by following health and safety protocols and assisting with household tasks when necessary.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including healthcare professionals and family members, to coordinate comprehensive care.
• Advocate for clients’ rights and preferences, promoting their inclusion and participation in community activities.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Basic understanding of developmental disabilities and related support needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable transportation to and from the job location at 1122 Ohioview Drive Extension-6076W.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working as a Direct Support Professional or in a related caregiving role.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Training or coursework in behavioral support techniques or disability services.
• Familiarity with electronic documentation and reporting systems.
• Ability to speak multiple languages to better serve diverse client populations.

Skills

The skills required for this role are applied daily to provide compassionate and effective support tailored to each client’s unique needs. Strong communication skills enable the DSP to build trusting relationships with clients and collaborate effectively with team members and families. Problem-solving and adaptability are essential when responding to changing client needs or unexpected situations. Organizational skills are used to maintain accurate records and manage time efficiently across multiple responsibilities. Preferred skills such as CPR certification and behavioral support knowledge enhance the DSP’s ability to ensure client safety and promote positive outcomes in challenging scenarios.

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