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 support. This position focuses on assisting clients in achieving greater independence, community integration, and personal growth through tailored care and encouragement. The DSP collaborates closely with clients, their families, and interdisciplinary teams to implement individualized service plans that promote health, safety, and well-being. By fostering a respectful and supportive environment, the DSP helps clients develop essential life skills and participate actively in their communities. Ultimately, this role is dedicated to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives with dignity and respect.

• Provide direct personal care and support to individuals based on their unique needs and preferences.
• Assist clients with daily living activities such as hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and mobility.
• Implement individualized service plans and document progress accurately and timely.
• Facilitate community engagement and social activities to promote inclusion and skill development.
• Monitor and report any changes in clients' physical or emotional health to the appropriate team members.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment that respects client privacy and autonomy.
• Collaborate with families, healthcare providers, and other professionals to ensure comprehensive care.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated compassion and patience in working with individuals with disabilities.
• Basic understanding of safety and emergency procedures.

• Previous experience in a direct support or caregiving role.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Training or coursework related to developmental disabilities or behavioral health.
• Ability to drive and possess a valid driver's license.
• Familiarity with electronic documentation systems.

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong communication skills to effectively interact with clients, families, and team members, ensuring clear understanding and collaboration. Compassion and patience are essential to provide empathetic support tailored to each individual's needs, fostering trust and comfort. Organizational skills are applied to accurately document client progress and manage schedules, which supports continuity of care. Problem-solving abilities help the DSP respond appropriately to unexpected situations or changes in client conditions, maintaining safety and well-being. Additionally, preferred skills such as CPR certification and knowledge of behavioral health techniques enhance the ability to provide comprehensive and responsive care.

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!