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 involves assisting clients in achieving greater independence through daily living activities, skill development, and community integration. The DSP serves as a trusted advocate and caregiver, ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of those they support. Working closely with families, healthcare providers, and other team members, the DSP helps create and implement individualized care plans tailored to each client’s unique needs. Ultimately, the role is focused on empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives within their communities at the 231 Snyder Drive-6064W location.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide direct personal care and support to individuals, including assistance with hygiene, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility.
• Facilitate skill-building activities that promote independence, such as budgeting, cooking, and social interaction.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, reporting concerns promptly to supervisors.
• Support clients in participating in community activities, appointments, and social events to encourage inclusion and engagement.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment that respects client privacy and promotes their comfort.

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 skills to effectively interact with clients and team members.
• Willingness to complete any required training or certification related to direct support services.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a caregiving or support role, especially with individuals with disabilities.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Knowledge of person-centered planning and support techniques.
• Familiarity with community resources and services for individuals with disabilities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing client needs.

Skills

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trusting relationships with clients and their families. Compassion and patience are essential for providing respectful and individualized care, especially when assisting with personal and sensitive tasks. Organizational skills are used to accurately document client progress and coordinate with healthcare providers and team members. Problem-solving abilities help the DSP respond effectively to unexpected situations or behavioral challenges. Additionally, knowledge of community resources and support strategies enables the DSP to facilitate meaningful community involvement and promote client 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