Direct Support Professional Residential in Beaverton, Oregon at Edwards Center Inc

Position Overview

Direct Support Professionals provide 24-hour support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), helping each person live safely, confidently, and as independently as possible. This role centers on relationship-building, teaching everyday living skills, promoting choice, and maintaining health and safety in residential settings and the broader community.

Core Competencies & Skills

1. Health & Medical Support

• Follows proper medication administration using the three-point check procedure.
• Understands and implements physician and nursing orders accurately.
• Documents all medications, treatments, and health-related data correctly on required forms (MAR, PCR).
• Recognizes and responds promptly to medical or behavioral changes, seeking assistance when needed.
• Maintains organized, clean, and secure medication storage areas.
• Demonstrates confidence in infection control, bloodborne pathogen protocols, and emergency first aid.

2. Safety & Risk Management

• Applies emergency procedures calmly and efficiently, including evacuation, fire, and severe weather drills.
• Identifies potential hazards and takes proactive steps to correct or report them.
• Uses adaptive and mobility equipment correctly and safely.
• Operates vehicles according to Edwards Center safety policies, reporting incidents immediately.
• Completes required safety documentation, incident reports, and SAIF forms accurately.

3. Individual Support & Skill Development

• Implements Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and Safety Plans with fidelity and care.
• Supports individuals in daily living activities—meal preparation, hygiene, household upkeep—encouraging independence and dignity.
• Documents progress toward individual goals and outcomes in a timely, accurate manner.
• Promotes learning through natural opportunities (“teachable moments”) that build confidence and ability.
• Encourages participation in social, community, and recreational activities that reflect personal interests.

4. Communication & Collaboration

• Communicates clearly, respectfully, and promptly with participants, team members, families, and community partners.
• Uses basic computer skills to access documentation systems (T-Logs, emails, GERs) to share accurate and timely information.
• Demonstrates active listening, empathy, and professional boundaries.
• Participates in team meetings and contributes constructively to shared problem-solving.
• Advocates for participant rights and inclusion within the community.

5. Professionalism & Integrity

• Models Edwards Center values of dignity, respect, empathy, and reliability.
• Maintains confidentiality and adheres to HIPAA and abuse-reporting laws.
• Accepts feedback and takes ownership of professional growth.
• Arrives punctually, completes shifts as scheduled, and follows proper leave procedures.
• Demonstrates sound judgment and accountability in all actions.

6. Regulatory Compliance & Documentation

• Demonstrates working knowledge of Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) and agency policies.
• Keeps required certifications current: First Aid/CPR, Bloodborne Pathogens, Oregon Intervention System (OIS).
• Completes all assigned trainings and refreshers on schedule.
• Follows all documentation, reporting, and data-tracking requirements to meet program and regulatory standards.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This position involves hands-on, active support work in residential and community settings. Employees must be able to meet the following demands, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Mobility & Endurance: Frequent walking and moving throughout the home or community; may assist with transfers or mobility devices.
• Strength: Ability to lift or carry up to 50 lbs frequently and up to 100 lbs occasionally.
• Posture & Movement: Occasional bending, stooping, reaching, kneeling, pushing, or pulling (e.g., household tasks, assisting with wheelchairs).
• Senses & Communication: Constant hearing, seeing, and verbal communication to ensure safety and effective interaction.
• Driving: Occasional operation of agency vehicles for community outings or appointments; must maintain valid Oregon driver’s license and insurable record.
• Environment: Work occurs both indoors and outdoors, in various weather conditions and residential environments.
• Exposure: Occasional contact with water, cleaning products, and situations requiring quick response to behavioral or medical emergencies.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Compassion, patience, and commitment to person-centered support.
• Ability to teach and reinforce skills using respectful, individualized approaches.
• Strong observation, computer skills for documentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective teamwork and adaptability in changing routines or locations.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for diversity in all forms.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Ability to pass background check per state and agency requirements.
• Valid Oregon driver’s license, an insurable driving record, and no fewer than 7 years of driving experience.
• Willingness to complete Edwards Center’s training program, including OIS, First Aid/CPR, and mandatory reporter training.
• Basic computer skills and a positive attitude toward learning new technologies