Direct Support Professional - Slippery Rock, PA

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.

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 tailor care plans that meet each individual's unique needs. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to empowering clients to lead fulfilling lives within their communities.

• Provide direct care and support to individuals with disabilities, including assistance with personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and mobility.
• Implement individualized care plans and support clients in developing life skills such as communication, socialization, and self-care.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, reporting concerns promptly to supervisors or healthcare professionals.
• Facilitate community engagement activities, encouraging participation in social, recreational, and educational opportunities.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive living environment that respects client privacy and promotes independence.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Basic understanding of caregiving principles and a genuine commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to follow detailed care plans.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

• 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 disability services, behavioral support, or healthcare.
• Familiarity with community resources and advocacy for individuals with disabilities.
• Ability to operate assistive devices and technology used by clients.

In daily work, the required skills such as effective communication and caregiving knowledge enable the DSP to provide attentive and personalized support to clients. The ability to follow care plans ensures consistency and safety in service delivery. Preferred skills like CPR certification and experience with assistive technology enhance the DSP's capability to respond to emergencies and support client independence. Collaboration and problem-solving skills are essential for adapting to the unique needs of each individual and working effectively with multidisciplinary teams. Overall, these skills combine to create a compassionate, responsive, and professional approach to direct support.

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!