Crisis Outreach Assessment Team (COAT - Sycamore) Direct Support Crisis Specialist – (Southern) Region – (Eugene) Area

State of Oregon • Salem, OR

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Direct Support Crisis Specialist to join the Crisis Outreach Assessment Team (COAT) within the Stabilization and Crisis Unit (SACU). This program provides 24-hour residential care to individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities, often with co-occurring mental health diagnoses, whose support needs exceed those offered by other community-based residential programs. SACU focuses on development and support to help individuals safely transition back to their home communities. The role involves modeling positive attitudes and assisting individuals with access to health and medical supports, psychological services, emotional and behavioral support, and educational support. SACU staff also provide life skills training, recreational opportunities, and community integration, aiming to support the quality of life, independence, and social opportunities for the individuals served. The department encourages applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to foster a diverse and inclusive community.

Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
• Eighteen months of experience providing direct individual care or training in a related field of human services (i.e., providing assistance to supported individuals or groups with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental and physical disabilities, or substance abuse).
• OR An Associate or higher-level degree in a related human services field.
• OR A combination of education and experience as defined above.
• Experience communicating verbally and in writing to follow instructions, communicate with others, and document information.
• Experience resolving conflicts in a professional and timely manner.
• Computer skills are needed for documenting and communicating information.
• Experience working within a team to achieve a common goal.
• Experience following behavior and mental health supports and/or medical orders.
• Experience monitoring and/or assisting individuals who experience mental, emotional, behavior, physical or medical challenges.
• Experience with crisis response and intervention.
• Must be able to engage and maintain Oregon Intervention System (OIS) approved restraints for one (1) hour or less.
• Must be able to travel to different work locations to ensure effective crisis response and proactive measures.
• Must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States within three days of hire.
• Must be able to complete compressions in a kneeling position for First Aid/CPR Certification.
• Must be able to physically hold an individual for safety while maintaining an approved restraint on clients for Oregon Intervention System Certification (OIS).
• Must demonstrate competency in completing doctor's orders, appropriate passing of medications to clients, appropriate documentation, and appropriate procedures for emergencies for Medication Administration Certification.

Nice To Haves

• Paid or unpaid caregiving experience or experience volunteering with seniors, children, or people with disabilities may help meet qualifications. This experience may include making and attending medical or psychiatric appointments, medication assistance, assisting with daily personal care, assisting with activities of daily living, such as: personal or grocery shopping, doing housework, cooking, and providing transportation, etc.
• Lived experience may substitute for up to 6 months of the required experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and/or support in a 24-hour, 7 days per week residential group home to children and adults in behavioral management, safety, personal care, nutrition, housekeeping, health care, and other daily activities within the home and the community.
• As a member of the Crisis Outreach and Assessment Team (COAT), work in a specific region as part of a mobile unit comprised of Direct Support Crisis Specialist’s and Psychiatric Crisis Counselor’s to respond to crises in homes.
• Build rapport with supported individuals and house staff for crisis support.
• This is a float position requiring reporting to the region that needs support, with assignments potentially including covering callouts, vacations, or requests for COAT support.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
• Amazing benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Part of the Police and Fire pension plan, which allows retirement with full benefits after 25 years of service.
• A variety of resources and benefits are offered through the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree