Direct Support Professional

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 mentor, fostering a safe and supportive environment that promotes dignity and respect. Collaboration with families, healthcare providers, and other team members is essential to create and implement individualized care plans. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives within their communities.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to individuals with disabilities, including assistance with personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and mobility.
• Implement individualized support plans that promote skill development, social engagement, and community participation.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, ensuring accurate and timely reporting.
• Advocate for the rights and preferences of clients, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in all aspects of care.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including healthcare professionals and family members, to coordinate comprehensive care and support.

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 working as a Direct Support Professional or in a related caregiving role.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Knowledge of developmental disabilities and behavioral support techniques.
• Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Skills

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong interpersonal skills to build trusting relationships with clients, ensuring their comfort and engagement. Effective communication skills are essential for understanding client needs and collaborating with families and healthcare teams. Problem-solving abilities help the DSP adapt to changing situations and provide appropriate support. Compassion and patience are critical in managing challenging behaviors and promoting positive outcomes. Additionally, organizational skills are used to maintain accurate documentation and follow individualized care plans consistently.

Benefits

Merakey offers competitive compensation plans and more!

• DailyPay
• Work/Life Balance
• Flexible Schedules
• Cell Phone Discount Plans
• Employee Referral Bonuses

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!

Position Requirements:

• A verifiable high school diploma or GED is required.
• A current and valid driver's license is required
• Age 18 or older

Related experience is helpful.