Lead Staff 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 individuals 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.

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.

Children's Services

Our Children's Services focus on helping children thrive in safe, nurturing, and supportive environments. Through our Heart Work program and other family-centered services, we promote growth, independence, and meaningful community participation.

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 paid time off and sick leave

Paid holidays

Voluntary life insurance

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

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.

Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) - In Home Services (1:1 Supports)

Are you a leader-in-the-making looking to take the next step in your service focused career?

Promote connection, inclusion, and wellness for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and grow your career with ALSO!

Position Overview:

As a Lead Direct Support Professional (Lead DSP) at ALSO, you will be an essential part of the ALSO team, providing person-centered support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You’ll collaborate closely with the Services Manager and your team, offering advocacy, training, and support while growing your leadership skills and helping individuals thrive! This is an excellent opportunity to expand your leadership skills and learn more about service implementation, compliance, training, and oversight. This position is meant to be a stepping stone into service management and is an ideal promotional opportunity for people who are ready to take their next step in their careers!

Key Responsibilities:

Relationship Building: Cultivate strong, supportive connections with people receiving services and provide backup support coverage when needed. Training & Development: Train new Direct Support Professionals on essential job duties and person-centered support practices. Compliance & Documentation: Ensure proper documentation (MAR, T-Logs, ISP data) is maintained to meet compliance standards. Direct Support: Assist with hygiene and medical support as needed, skills training, and daily living tasks both in the home and out in the broader community. Team Leadership: Serve as a resource for team members and act as a proxy for Service Managers during absences (sick leave, vacation, etc.).

Qualifications:

Flexibility: Ability to provide coverage across day, swing, and graveyard shifts. Regular schedules will provided based on the needs of the people in services.Strong Communication: Clear, effective communication in both documentation and collaboration with team members, managers, individuals supported, their families, and other providers. Advocacy: A deep commitment to promoting inclusion, autonomy, and the best interests of the people choosing services with ALSO. Leadership: Eagerness to cultivate your leadership skills, while also supporting the personal growth and development of the people you interact with. This position offers pathways to becoming a Services Manager as ALSO expands. Experience: 1+ years of prior experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as a Direct Support Professional or similar role.

Compensation :

Starting Pay: $20.25 - $21.75 per hour based on experience, education, and Veteran status.Paid Training: Earn while enhancing your skills. Paid Holidays: 5 daysPaid Personal Holidays: 5 days, including a special “YAY Day” for your birthday

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.