Direct Support Professional

ALBERTINA KERR CENTERS•Salem, OR

7d•$20 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

At Albertina Kerr, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work in youth group homes serving people ages 10–17 with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges. Each home supports up to four youth with individual backgrounds, strengths, and goals. DSPs work alongside a multidisciplinary team that includes other DSPs, Behavior Specialists, Therapists, Skills Trainers, and Psychiatrists to support youth in leading self-determined lives in their communities. The role focuses on helping youth build social, emotional-regulation, and advocacy skills; develop independence in daily living; and strengthen relationships and community connections. Daily activities may include supporting routines, school preparation, after-school activities, meals, personal care, and household tasks. DSPs collaborate with families and care teams to provide consistent support, follow behavior support plans, monitor health and well-being, and promote safety. When youth become dysregulated, DSPs model emotional regulation, use approved safety strategies, and focus on relationship-building and repair. The position is assigned to a primary group home, though support may also be needed at other group homes. The stated schedule is Thursday and Friday, 1:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m., and Saturday, 10:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Other duties may be assigned or needed. The position is covered by the SEIU Local 503 Collective Bargaining Agreement.

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 be willing to learn new recipes.
Have basic cleaning skills.
Be willing to be flexible and learn new skills.
Meet background-check and reference-check requirements.
Meet the organization's driving requirements: hold a current, valid driver's license and have no more than two driving infractions in the last two years.

Nice To Haves

Applicants who can work at least one weekend day are preferred.

Responsibilities

Build safe, trusting relationships with youth.
Support youth with 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, after-school activities, meals, and household tasks as needed.
Use approved strategies to maintain safety and support relationship-building and repair when youth are dysregulated.
Provide support at other group homes when needed.