Direct Support Professional in Portland, Oregon at Advocates for Life Skills & Opportunity Inc.

About Advocates for Life Skills & Opportunity (ALSO)

Founded in 1997, Advocates for Life Skills & Opportunity (ALSO) is one of Oregon's leading nonprofit providers of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We proudly serve individuals and families across 11 Oregon counties, delivering person-centered supports in homes, workplaces, schools, and communities.

At ALSO, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live, work, and participate fully in their community. Every day, our team helps people build meaningful lives through individualized supports that promote independence, choice, and inclusion.

Our Mission

To promote the full inclusion of people experiencing disabilities in the life of their community.

Our Vision

We envision a future where all people—including those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities—are fully included as valued members of their communities. We strive to provide equitable access to services and supports that reflect the preferences, goals, and values of each person, empowering self-determination, independence, meaningful employment, and a fulfilling quality of life.

Our Values

Our values shape every interaction—with the people we support, our teammates, and our communities.

TrustWe communicate with honesty, transparency, and integrity while fostering a safe and supportive environment.

TeamworkWe collaborate to bring out the best in one another and achieve meaningful outcomes together.

InnovationWe embrace creativity, curiosity, and new ideas to continuously improve the way we serve others.

DignityWe honor each person's inherent worth and right to make choices about their own life.

RespectWe treat every individual with kindness, compassion, and appreciation.

AccountabilityWe take ownership of our actions, deliver on our commitments, and continuously pursue excellence.

HumilityWe recognize that we are part of something bigger than ourselves and grow through learning, gratitude, and service.

Our Services

Employment Services

We partner with people to identify meaningful career opportunities and provide customized employment supports that foster long-term success and independence in the workplace.

Residential Services

Our residential programs provide individualized supports that help people live safely, independently, and as active members of their communities while honoring each person's goals and preferences. This is 24 hour supports working in a home setting with multiple people.

Supported Living & In-Home Services

We provide customized supports that help people maintain independence in their own homes and communities. Services are tailored to each individual's unique needs and personal goals. These are one on one supports in people's homes and communities.

Children's Services

Our Children's Services focus on helping children thrive in safe, nurturing, and supportive environments. We promote growth, independence, and meaningful community participation. This is 24 hour supports in a home setting with 2 to 3 children living together.

Benefits & Perks

At ALSO, we believe in investing in the people who invest in our mission. Eligible employees may enjoy:

Medical and dental insurance

401(k) with employer matching

Generous vacation time and sick leave

Double Time Paid Holidays (5 Holidays)

Employer provided Life Insurance for full time employees

Voluntary life insurance

Voluntary short-term and long-term disability insurance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Peer-to-peer recognition and bonus programs

Milestone service recognition

Professional development and continuing education opportunities

Flexible scheduling opportunities

Career Development Pathways

Public Service Loan Eligibility

Join a team where your work makes a lasting impact every day. At ALSO, you'll build meaningful relationships, grow professionally, and help create more inclusive communities throughout Oregon.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Are you seeking a meaningful position that contributes to improving the lives of others?

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 Fairview

Position 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 inclusion

Compensation:

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 encourages to apply! You can also learn more about our careers and services, or attend our next hiring event at www.heartworkoregon.com

Advocates for Life Skills & Opportunity is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and job applicants without regard to age, race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.