Direct Support Professional - Coraopolis, PA

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

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 care. This position focuses on supporting individuals to achieve their personal goals, maintain independence, and participate fully in their communities. The DSP will work closely with clients to assist with daily living activities, promote skill development, and ensure their health and safety. This role requires a commitment to fostering a respectful and empowering environment that values each individual's dignity and preferences. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to creating a supportive atmosphere where clients can thrive and lead fulfilling lives.

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and mobility support.
• Implement individualized care plans and support clients in achieving their personal and developmental goals.
• Provide companionship and emotional support to promote social engagement and community involvement.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, communicating effectively with healthcare professionals and family members.
• Ensure a safe and clean living environment by following health and safety protocols and responding promptly to emergencies.

• 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 and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to complete any required training or certification related to direct support services.

• Previous experience in a caregiving or support role for individuals with disabilities.
• Certification as a Direct Support Professional or related credential.
• CPR and First Aid certification.
• Knowledge of community resources and services available to individuals with disabilities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing client needs.

The skills required for this role are applied daily to provide effective and empathetic support to clients. Communication skills enable the DSP to understand client needs and collaborate with families and healthcare providers. Patience and compassion are essential for building trust and encouraging client independence. Organizational skills help in managing schedules, documenting care activities, and ensuring compliance with care plans. Preferred skills such as CPR certification and knowledge of community resources enhance the DSP's ability to respond to emergencies and connect clients with additional support services.

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!