Direct Support Professional (Polk County)

About the role

Premier Community Supports hires Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to provide care in-home and in the community for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Build a supportive, person-centered relationship with the individual and deliver care that aligns with their Individual Support Plan (ISP).
• Promote autonomy and choice: support the individual in exercising their rights and making decisions about their own life.
• Aid in daily living activities as required, and assist with household tasks.
• Collaborate with the individual, their family, and the support team to achieve the best possible outcomes.
• Facilitate community participation: help the individual plan and attend social, recreational, and appointment-based activities based on their preferences.
• Support budgeting, shopping, and meal preparation when needed.
• With appropriate training, administer medications or support medication protocols.
• Identify and report any incidents or changes in the individual’s health, behavior, or circumstances, and maintain required documentation in compliance with applicable regulations.
• Provide transportation (in a personal vehicle if required) for errands, community outings, or appointments.
• Adapt to schedule variations (day, evening, night shifts; weekends) in order to meet the individual’s needs.

Requirements

• Age: Must be at least 18 years or older.
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Minimum 6 months experience working with the I/DD community or 1 year caregiving/related experience (preferred).
• Able to pass a criminal background check (per state requirements, Oregon OARs).
• Valid driver’s license, automobile insurance, and reliable vehicle (if transportation duties apply).
• Smartphone access (for documentation, communication, timekeeping).
• Able to be certified in CPR & First Aid (training provided if needed).
• Willingness to complete annually required training (24 hours minimum).
• Able to be comfortable around animals (if applicable).

Qualifications & Experience

• Empathetic, patient, and person-centered.
• Strong communicator both verbally and in writing.
• Flexible and adaptable, thriving in changing environments and schedules.
• Team-oriented and able to collaborate with families, support teams, and community partners.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to maintain accurate documentation.
• Able to make thoughtful decisions in real time and ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of the individuals supported.

What We Offer

• 401(k) plan with up to 4% employer match after 90 days.
• Paid training (including CPR/First Aid and other required certifications).
• Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual for both part-time and full-time DSPs; PTO cash-out option after 1 year.
• No-cost health plan for DSPs working > 26 hours/pay period; dental & vision benefits for full-time DSPs after 6 months (50% employer paid).

Schedule & Work Environment

Schedule varies according to the Individual’s needs; day, evening, night shifts and weekend availability required. Overtime (available upon approval).

Primary work setting: individual’s home environment, with occasional travel to community locations.

Physical demands may include lifting up to 50lbs, bending, squatting, standing, walking, driving, and frequent sitting, talking/hearing.

Reasonable accommodations available.

Benefits

• Empower Lives. Build Futures. Join Our Team!