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 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 that improve their autonomy and social engagement. Ultimately, this role contributes to creating a safe, respectful, and empowering environment where clients can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.

Job Responsibilities Assist clients with personal care tasks such as hygiene, grooming, and medication management. Support clients in developing life skills including cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and transportation. Facilitate community involvement by accompanying clients to appointments, social events, and recreational activities. Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being. Collaborate with healthcare professionals, family members, and team members to ensure comprehensive care. Maintain a safe and supportive living environment that respects client dignity and promotes independence. Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow established protocols to ensure client safety. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Ability to pass background checks and drug screenings as required by regulatory standards. Basic understanding of developmental disabilities and related support needs. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with clients and team members. Physical ability to assist clients with mobility and daily activities. 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 in behavioral health, social work, or human services. Familiarity with person-centered planning and positive behavioral support techniques. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for community outings. Skills

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong communication skills to build trusting relationships with clients and understand their individual needs. Problem-solving abilities are essential when adapting support strategies to meet changing circumstances or client preferences. Organizational skills help in managing schedules, documenting care activities, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. Empathy and patience are critical for providing compassionate care and encouraging client independence. Additionally, physical stamina and attentiveness ensure that clients receive safe and effective assistance throughout their daily routines.

 

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!