Direct Support Professional – Coraopolis, 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 clients in achieving greater independence, community integration, and personal growth through tailored care and encouragement. The DSP will work closely with clients to support their daily living activities, promote skill development, and ensure their health and safety in a respectful and dignified manner. Collaboration with families, healthcare providers, and other team members is essential to create and implement individualized support plans that meet each client’s unique needs. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to fostering an inclusive environment where clients feel valued, empowered, and supported in reaching their fullest potential.

Job Responsibilities

• Assist clients with activities of daily living including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility support.
• Implement individualized care plans and document progress, behaviors, and any changes in client condition accurately and timely.
• Encourage and facilitate community participation and social interaction to promote client independence and social skills.
• Monitor client safety and well-being, responding promptly to emergencies or changes in health status.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including healthcare professionals and family members, to ensure comprehensive and consistent care.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to travel to the job location at 329 Robinson Blvd-6032W and community outings.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Strong communication skills and a genuine interest in supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Basic knowledge of first aid and CPR or willingness to obtain certification.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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, behavioral health, or social services.
• Ability to speak a second language relevant to the client population served.
• Experience with electronic documentation systems and care plan software.

Skills

The skills required for this role are applied daily to provide compassionate and effective support tailored to each client’s needs. Strong interpersonal and communication skills enable the DSP to build trusting relationships with clients and collaborate effectively with families and healthcare teams. Problem-solving and observational skills are essential for identifying client needs, managing challenging behaviors, and ensuring safety. Organizational skills are used to maintain accurate records and follow individualized care plans consistently. Preferred skills such as CPR certification and experience with electronic documentation enhance the DSP’s ability to respond to emergencies and streamline care coordination.

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!