Job Description

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 with daily living activities, promoting independence, and fostering community integration. The DSP works closely with clients to understand their unique needs, preferences, and goals, ensuring that care plans are effectively implemented. Through consistent support and encouragement, the DSP helps clients develop skills, build confidence, and achieve greater autonomy. Ultimately, this role contributes to creating a safe, respectful, and empowering environment where clients can thrive and participate fully in their communities.

Job Responsibilities

• Assist clients with personal care tasks such as hygiene, grooming, and meal preparation to promote health and well-being.
• Support clients in developing life skills including communication, socialization, and money management to enhance independence.
• Accompany clients to appointments, community activities, and social events to encourage community involvement and inclusion.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or mood, reporting concerns to supervisors as needed.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, family members, and other team members to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with clients and team members.
• Demonstrated patience, empathy, and commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Basic understanding of safety and emergency procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a caregiving or support role, especially with individuals with disabilities.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Training or coursework related to developmental disabilities or behavioral health.
• Ability to drive and possess a valid driver’s license for community outings.
• Familiarity with documentation and reporting software used in care settings.

Skills

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong communication skills to build trusting relationships with clients and effectively convey information to team members. Empathy and patience are essential for understanding client needs and responding to challenges with compassion. Organizational skills are applied to maintain accurate records and manage schedules for appointments and activities. Problem-solving abilities help the DSP adapt to changing situations and support clients in overcoming obstacles. Additionally, teamwork and collaboration skills ensure seamless coordination with healthcare providers, families, and other professionals to deliver holistic care.

Earn $19.50/hour with the selection of the Enhanced Pay Option.

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.