Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional (DSP)Promote connection, inclusion, and wellness for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and start a fulfilling career with ALSO!Location(s): SE Portland / Gresham, Wood Village and FairviewPosition Overview:As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at ALSO, you'll provide person-centered care to 2-4 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential home setting. In addition to assisting with personal care, health services, and behavioral support, you'll help individuals engage with their communities by accompanying them to appointments, activities, and outings. Because community inclusion is central to our mission, driving is a key part of most DSP positions.We support adults with I/DD with a variety of support needs. Some people may require more medical care or hygiene assistance, while others need more social, emotional, or behavioral support. Everyone receives person-centered support tailored to their specific needs and wants. This position works within an interdisciplinary team of behavior specialists, nurses, support pros, and leadership committed to advocating for wellness, autonomy, and inclusion.Shift and program details: We are currently hiring swing and day shift positions (including weekdays and weekends) within homes that require diligence in maintaining routines and schedules for individuals who need specific support for either medical or behavioral needs. Candidates with some background knowledge or experience in mental health or nursing care are highly considered.Key Responsibilities:Relationship Building: Cultivate strong, supportive connections with individuals receiving services and provide backup support coverage when needed.Direct Support: Assist with hygiene and medical support as needed, and daily living tasks (i.e. cooking, cleaning, activity planning) both in the home and out in the broader community.Medical Support and Nurse Delegations: Under the training and guidance of one of ALSO's RNs, you may provide assistance with g-tubes, j-tubes, injections, colostomy bags, hoyer lift, and other medical equipmentPositive Behavior Support: Adhere to person-centered plans and routines that support individual's sense of safety and emotional regulationCompliance & Documentation: Ensure proper documentation (MAR, T-Logs, ISP data) is maintained to meet compliance standards.Advocacy: Be an advocate for the people you support by promoting choices, autonomy, and community inclusionCompensation:Starting Pay: $19 - $20.50 per hour, based on experience, education, and Veteran status.Paid Training: Earn while enhancing your skills.Paid Personal Holidays: 5 days, including a special "YAY Day" for your birthday.Referral bonus: Up to $500 per referral!Qualifications:Be dependable and punctual;Be able to lift, transfer, push/pull, maneuver and reposition 50 lbs.;Have a high school diploma or equivalent;Be able to prepare written reports via computer using proper spelling, punctuation, and grammar.Valid driver license preferred.Willingness to accompany individuals out in the community.Experience as a caregiver is great but not required! Do you work in a warehouse, in retail, in customer service, or as a driver and want a change? Restart your career at ALSO as a Direct Support Professional!All candidates considered for employment are required to successfully pass a comprehensive background check prior to joining ALSO and ongoing every two years.Why Join ALSO?At ALSO, we do work of the heart. This meaningful work brings out the bold, the compassionate, and the passionate. By joining our team, you will play a crucial role in helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live fulfilling lives, achieve their goals, and become an integral part of their communities. Join us in making a real difference. Make Heart Work YOUR Work.All qualified applicants encouraged to apply! You can also learn more about our careers and services, or attend our next hiring event.