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 involves assisting clients in achieving greater independence through daily living activities, skill development, and community integration. The DSP serves as a trusted advocate and caregiver, ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of those they support. Working closely with families, healthcare providers, and other team members, the DSP helps create and implement individualized care plans tailored to each client's unique needs. Ultimately, the role contributes to fostering a supportive environment where clients can thrive and participate fully in their communities.

• Provide direct personal care and support to individuals, including assistance with hygiene, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility.
• Implement individualized support plans by facilitating skill-building activities that promote independence and social engagement.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, communicating effectively with supervisors and healthcare professionals.
• Support clients in accessing community resources and participating in recreational, educational, and vocational activities.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and respectful environment that promotes client dignity and comfort.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Basic understanding of personal care and safety procedures.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated reliability and commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities.

• Previous experience working as a Direct Support Professional or in a related caregiving role.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Training or coursework in developmental disabilities or behavioral health.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trusting relationships with clients and their families. Problem-solving and observational skills are essential for recognizing client needs and responding appropriately to changes in behavior or health. Time management and organizational skills help the DSP effectively balance multiple responsibilities, including documentation and care tasks. Empathy and patience are critical for providing compassionate support and fostering a positive environment. Additionally, teamwork and collaboration skills enable the DSP to coordinate with healthcare providers and other support staff to deliver comprehensive care.

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!