Direct Support Professional

Albertina Kerr Centers • Salem, OR

5d

About The Position

At Albertina Kerr, the mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges to lead self-determined lives in their communities. Direct Support Professionals in youth group homes work with a collaborative, multidisciplinary team—including DSPs, Behavior Specialists, Therapists, Skills Trainers, and Psychiatrists—to support youth ages 10–17 with developmental and mental health needs (dual diagnosis). Each home supports up to four youth, each with unique backgrounds, strengths, and goals.

The role supports youth in building social, emotional regulation, and advocacy skills; developing independence in daily living; and strengthening relationships and community connections. Daily responsibilities may include supporting morning and bedtime routines, school preparation, after-school activities, meals, and household tasks. DSPs also collaborate with families and care teams to provide consistent, high-quality support.

At times, DSPs may support youth who are dysregulated due to trauma or skill gaps. They model emotional regulation, use approved strategies to maintain safety, and focus on relationship-building and repair. The role is grounded in the belief that people do well if they can, and supports youth in building skills for success. Although assigned to a primary group home, support may be needed at other group homes. Other duties may be assigned or needed. This position is covered under the SEIU Local 503 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Requirements

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

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 morning and bedtime routines, school preparation, after-school activities, meals, and household tasks.
• Model emotional regulation, use approved safety strategies, and focus on relationship-building and repair when youth are dysregulated.
• Provide support at other group homes when needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned or needed.

Benefits

• Paid 2-week training program to teach you the skills you need.
• 100% paid medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Paid holidays and generous paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed