Direct Support Professional - Full Time

Job Title: Direct Support Professional

Location: Cottage Grove, MN (multiple schedules available across various locations)

Schedule: Tues-Fri 8a-4p & E/O Weekend 8a-4p

Wage: $24.00 hourly including company benefits

Job Summary:

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will assist individuals in working toward their personal goals. DSP staff support individuals with tasks such as meal preparation, community outings, personal hygiene, shopping, cleaning, attending appointments, and taking medication. Staff should feel comfortable providing personal care, medical supports, and other daily supports to those they assist. Staff should feel comfortable responding to interfering behaviors. 

Essential Job Duties:

• Work on tailored outcomes with each person in the home. Outcomes may include budgeting, behavioral management, community exploration, meal planning, organizational skills, coping skills, and/or physical fitness.
• Be an active participant with individuals served when working on outcomes and out in the community.
• Assist with personal cares as needed per person served.
• Provide guidance and instructional teaching to persons while building life skills.
• Provide cleaning, cooking and medication administration to the individuals living at the home.
• Provide supervision and transportation in the community on activities and appointments. Typically, a company vehicle is available, but times may require use of own personal vehicle.

Preferred Experience:

• At least 1 year supporting individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and/or mental health diagnosis
• At least 1 year working with individuals with verbal and physical aggressions
• At least 1 year implementing Emergency Use of Manual Restraints (applicable at select programs)

Required Qualifications: 

• Staff must be at least 18 years of age to support Adult Programs
• Staff must be 21 years of age or older to support Youth Programs
• Proficient in spoken and written English language
• Have a vehicle to use for work related purposes with current car insurance
• Have an acceptable driving record as determined by Meridian Services policy
• Have a Wi-Fi-enabled device for work related purposes
• Successful clearance of a Department of Human Services (DHS) Background Study
• Comfortable providing personal cares (including but not limited to: bathroom supports, bathing/showering, medication administration)