Direct Support Professional – Coraopolis Finance, PA

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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 individuals in achieving greater independence, community integration, and personal growth through tailored care and encouragement. The DSP collaborates closely with families, healthcare providers, and other team members to implement individualized care plans that promote health, safety, and well-being. This role requires a commitment to fostering a respectful and empowering environment where each individual’s dignity and preferences are prioritized. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to creating a supportive atmosphere that enables individuals to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives within their communities.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide direct personal care and support to individuals, including assistance with daily living activities such as hygiene, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
• Implement individualized support plans by facilitating skill development, social activities, and community engagement opportunities.
• Monitor and document changes in individuals’ physical, emotional, and behavioral health, reporting concerns promptly to supervisors or healthcare professionals.
• Ensure a safe and clean living environment by adhering to health and safety protocols and assisting with household tasks as needed.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate care, attend training sessions, and participate in team meetings to enhance service delivery.

Minimum Qualifications

• 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 skills to effectively interact with individuals and team members.
• Willingness to complete any required state or agency-specific training for Direct Support Professionals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a caregiving or support role with individuals with disabilities.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Knowledge of person-centered planning and positive behavioral support techniques.
• Ability to drive and possess a valid driver’s license for community-based activities.
• Additional training or coursework related to developmental disabilities or social services.

Skills

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trusting relationships with individuals and their families, ensuring their needs and preferences are understood and respected. Problem-solving and observational skills are essential for identifying changes in health or behavior and responding appropriately to maintain safety and well-being. Time management and organizational skills help the DSP balance multiple responsibilities, including documentation, care tasks, and community activities. Empathy and patience are critical in providing emotional support and encouragement, fostering a positive and empowering environment. Additionally, teamwork and collaboration skills enable effective coordination with healthcare providers and colleagues to deliver comprehensive and consistent care.

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!