Direct Support Professional
About The Position
Merakey is hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) for its program in Escondido, California. DSPs provide direct support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in homes, community settings, and Adult Training Facilities. The role serves individuals with complex behavioral needs, including severe aggression, property destruction, self-injurious behaviors, and crisis situations. DSPs implement behavior support plans, assist with personal care and daily living activities, promote community engagement, and help individuals develop independence while protecting their health, safety, dignity, and well-being. Candidates should be compassionate and resilient, and able to remain calm and professional in challenging situations. The stated pay is $26–$28 per hour, with the rate increasing by $2 per hour after earning RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) certification. DSP 1 and DSP 2 certifications and RBT certification must be completed within one year of hire.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must have a verifiable high school diploma or GED.
- Valid driver's license required.
- At least six months of experience providing direct care to individuals with developmental disabilities, with a focus on behavioral services.
- Must complete DSP 1 and DSP 2 certifications within one year of hire.
- Must complete RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) certification within one year of hire.
Nice To Haves
- Dual diagnosis experience preferred.
Responsibilities
- Provide direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in homes, community settings, and Adult Training Facilities.
- Implement behavior support plans.
- Assist with personal care and daily living activities.
- Promote community engagement and help individuals build independence.
- Ensure individuals’ health, safety, dignity, and well-being.
- Respond professionally to challenging behavioral needs and crisis situations.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, with access to healthcare advocacy support.
- Retirement plan with pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) employee contribution options.
- DailyPay access to pay when needed.
- On the Goga well-being platform, featuring self-care tools and resources.
- Access to Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services.
- Confidential counseling, legal, and financial services through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships.
- Employee discounts and savings programs on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
- Free online personal development classes through Pryor Online Learning.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
