Direct Support Professional (Youth)

ALBERTINA KERR CENTERS•Forest Grove, OR

34d•$20 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Albertina Kerr is seeking a Direct Support Professional to work in youth group homes in Forest Grove and Cornelius, Oregon. The role supports youth ages 10–17 with developmental and mental health needs, working as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team that includes DSPs, Behavior Specialists, Therapists, Skills Trainers, and Psychiatrists. Each home supports up to four youth with individual backgrounds, strengths, and goals. The DSP helps youth build social, emotional regulation, and advocacy skills; develop independence in daily living; and strengthen relationships and community connections. Daily activities may include supporting morning and bedtime routines, school preparation, after-school activities, meals, personal care, and household tasks. The role also involves collaborating with families and care teams to provide consistent support, monitoring health and well-being, and supporting youth in the community and across program needs. Youth may sometimes become dysregulated due to trauma or skill gaps. The DSP models emotional regulation, follows approved strategies to maintain safety, and focuses on relationship-building and repair. Although assigned to a primary group home, the employee may be asked to support other group homes. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old.
Have strong social skills.
Be able to lift, push, and pull 50 pounds.
Have basic cooking skills and willingness to learn new recipes.
Have basic cleaning skills.
Be willing to be flexible and learn new skills.
Meet background-check and reference-check requirements.
Have a current, valid driver's license and no more than two driving infractions in the last two years, as required by the organization's driving requirements.

Nice To Haves

Preference for applicants who can work at least one weekend day.

Responsibilities

Build safe, trusting relationships with youth.
Support daily living needs, including personal care.
Help youth develop skills for independence and adulthood.
Follow behavior support plans and ensure safety.
Collaborate with families, medical professionals, and team members.
Monitor youth health and well-being.
Support youth in the community and across program needs.
Support routines, school preparation, activities, meals, and household tasks.
Model emotional regulation and use approved safety strategies during periods of dysregulation.
Provide support at other group homes when needed.