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.

Part-time

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 clients with daily living activities, promoting independence, and fostering community integration in a respectful and supportive environment. The DSP will work closely with clients to understand their unique needs, preferences, and goals, ensuring that care plans are followed and adjusted as necessary. This role requires a commitment to upholding the dignity and rights of each individual while encouraging personal growth and social inclusion. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to creating a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment that enables clients to lead fulfilling lives at the 656 Centreville Pike-6282W location.

• 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.
• Support clients in developing social, recreational, and vocational skills to promote community involvement and independence.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive living environment in compliance with organizational policies and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, family members, and team members 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 and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with clients 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 developmental disabilities and behavioral support techniques.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm in challenging situations.

In daily work, the Direct Support Professional utilizes strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trusting relationships with clients and their families. Compassion and patience are essential for providing personalized care and responding effectively to clients' emotional and physical needs. Organizational skills are used to accurately document client progress and manage time efficiently while balancing multiple responsibilities. Problem-solving abilities help the DSP adapt to unexpected situations and implement appropriate interventions. Additionally, teamwork and collaboration skills are important for coordinating care with other professionals and contributing to a positive work environment.

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!