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 disabilities by providing compassionate, person-centered care and support. This position involves assisting individuals in achieving their personal goals, promoting independence, and fostering community integration. The DSP will work closely with individuals to support their daily living activities, including personal care, skill development, and social engagement. This role requires a commitment to respecting the dignity and preferences of each individual while ensuring their health and safety. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to creating a supportive and empowering environment that encourages growth, self-expression, and meaningful participation in the community.

• Provide direct care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities in accordance with their individualized service plans.
• Assist with daily living activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and mobility support.
• Encourage and facilitate participation in community activities, social events, and skill-building opportunities.
• Monitor and document individuals' progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, reporting concerns to supervisory staff.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, families, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Demonstrated compassion and patience in working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Basic communication skills to effectively interact with individuals and team members.
• Willingness to complete any required training or certification related to direct support services.

• Previous experience working as a Direct Support Professional or in a related caregiving role.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Knowledge of person-centered planning and positive behavioral support techniques.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.

In this role, strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for building trusting relationships with individuals and their families, ensuring their needs and preferences are understood and respected. Problem-solving and observational skills are used daily to identify and respond to changes in individuals' health or behavior promptly. Time management and organizational skills help the DSP balance multiple responsibilities, such as documentation, care tasks, and community activities. Empathy and patience are critical in providing supportive care that promotes independence while addressing challenges compassionately. Additionally, teamwork and collaboration skills enable effective coordination with colleagues and other professionals to deliver holistic and consistent support.

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!