Direct Support Professional

1:1 Direct Support Professional (DSP)  

$17.50 - $19.50 an hour. Starts part time, full time opportunities available.

Are you someone who finds meaning in supporting others to live full, self-directed lives? Promote connection, inclusion, and growth for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and start a fulfilling career with ALSO!  

Who We Are:  

Since 1997, ALSO has been committed to fostering independence and community inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our Supported Living Services program empowers people to choose how, where, and with whom they live, with personalized support that enables them to thrive in their communities. Our services are expanding, and we are seeking heart-centered individuals to join our team of advocates!

Position Overview:  

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in ALSO’s Supported Living program, you’ll work 1:1 with adults who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities to support their autonomy, health, and community involvement. The work of a DSP is active and dynamic – we meet people where they are and support them to build life skills, pursue their goals, and be active in the life of their community. While this role involves a high degree of autonomy, you’ll also be part of a larger team that’s here to train, support, and collaborate with you. 

ALSO supports people who live throughout the Portland Metro area. We are currently seeking DSPs to support people in Lake Oswego, SW Portland, Oregon City, Clackamas, and surrounding areas of Washington, Clackamas, and Multnomah counties.

No previous experience is required — we provide paid training for people who bring curiosity, dependability, and a heart for helping others. If you're drawn to social services, advocacy, or relationship-centered work, this role offers a meaningful way to make a difference in someone’s everyday life while growing your professional skills and being part of a department that is actively growing and expanding!

Key Responsibilities: 

• Relationship Building: Cultivate strong, supportive connections with individuals receiving services and provide backup support coverage when needed. 

• Advocacy: Prioritize the needs, interests, and goals of the individuals we support, advocating for their autonomy and inclusion. 

• 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. 

• Compliance & Documentation: Ensure proper documentation (MAR, T-Logs, ISP data) is maintained to meet compliance standards.  

Compensation & Benefits: 

• Starting Pay: $17.50 - $19 per hour, based on experience, education, and Veteran status. 

• Paid Training: Earn while enhancing your skills. 

• Paid Holidays: 10 days, including a special “YAY Day” for your birthday. 

• Comprehensive Insurance: Health, dental, vision, and life insurance options. 

• Generous Leave: Vacation and sick time accruals, Paid Time Off with payout option. 

• Retention bonus: $250 after 6 months 

• Referral bonus: Up to $500 per referral! 

• Retirement Plan: Generous employer-matching for traditional or Roth 401k 

• Employee Assistance Program: 24/7 access to counseling, legal, financial advice, and more. 

• Parental Leave 

• Flexible Spending Accounts 

• Employee Recognition Program 

• Career Development 

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligible. 

Qualifications: 

• Driving is a part of most of our support positions, a valid driver license and relable transportation are highly preferred; 

• Be dependable and punctual; able to meet schedule requirements which may include evenings, weekends, and/or overnights; willing to work some holidays 

• Ability to make sound decisions and work without direct supervision, demonstrating initiative and responsibility. 

• Clear, effective communication in both documentation and collaboration with team members, managers, individuals supported, their families, and other providers. 

• Be able to lift, transfer, push/pull, maneuver and reposition 50 lbs.; 

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent and be 18 year old

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 integral parts of their communities. Join us in making a real difference.  

Make Heart Work YOUR Work.