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 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 a respectful and dignified manner. Collaboration with families, healthcare providers, and other team members is essential to create and implement individualized support plans. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to fostering an inclusive environment where clients feel valued, empowered, and supported in reaching their fullest potential.

Job Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and mobility support.
• Implement individualized care plans and support clients in developing life skills such as communication, socialization, and community participation.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, reporting concerns promptly to supervisors or healthcare professionals.
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to promote self-esteem and independence while respecting client preferences and choices.
• Ensure a safe, clean, and supportive living environment by following health and safety protocols and maintaining accurate records.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Basic understanding of caregiving principles and a genuine interest in supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Physical ability to assist with mobility and perform tasks that may require lifting or standing for extended periods.

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 related to developmental disabilities or behavioral health.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Familiarity with electronic documentation systems and basic computer skills.

Skills

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trusting relationships with clients and their families. Problem-solving and observational skills are essential for identifying client needs and responding appropriately to changes in behavior or health status. Time management and organizational skills help ensure that care plans are followed accurately and documentation is completed thoroughly. Physical stamina and dexterity are important for assisting with mobility and personal care tasks safely. Additionally, empathy and patience are critical in providing respectful and individualized support that promotes client dignity and independence.

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!

Pay Rate: Earn up to $18.00/hour with election of Enhanced Pay option

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