Job Description

About the Role

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities by providing compassionate, person-centered care and support. This position involves assisting individuals in achieving their personal goals, promoting independence, and fostering community integration. The DSP will work closely with individuals to support their daily living activities, including personal care, meal preparation, and transportation, while ensuring their safety and well-being. Collaboration with families, healthcare providers, and other team members is essential to develop and implement individualized support plans. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to creating a supportive and empowering environment that respects the dignity and preferences of each individual served.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities in accordance with their individualized service plans.
• Assist with activities of daily living such as grooming, hygiene, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
• Support individuals in participating in community activities, employment, and social events to promote inclusion and independence.
• Monitor and document changes in individuals’ health, behavior, and progress toward goals, reporting concerns to supervisors as needed.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive living environment that respects the rights and preferences of each individual.

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 developmental disabilities.
• Basic communication skills to effectively interact with individuals, families, and team members.
• Willingness to complete any required training or certification related to direct support services.

Preferred Qualifications

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

Skills

In this role, strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for building trusting relationships with individuals and collaborating effectively with families and multidisciplinary teams. Problem-solving and observational skills are used daily to identify and respond to the unique needs and preferences of each individual. Time management and organizational skills help ensure that all support activities and documentation are completed accurately and efficiently. Compassion and patience are critical in providing respectful and empathetic care, especially during challenging situations. Additionally, adaptability and a willingness to learn enable the DSP to respond to changing circumstances and continuously improve the quality of support provided.

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

T he 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