NW Friends Inclusion is looking for a patient, dependable, and experienced Direct Support Professional to provide one-on-one support to an adult with intellectual/developmental disabilities in her home and community. This position is best suited for a DSP who has experience supporting individuals with challenging behaviors and is confident remaining calm, patient, and supportive during periods of emotional dysregulation.

Experience Requirement:

Applicants must have at least 1 year of experience working with individuals with I/DD who experience challenging behaviors. About the

Client:

The client is mostly nonverbal. She understands much of what is being said to her but has difficulty communicating her wants, needs, and what may be upsetting her. Because of these communication challenges, she can sometimes become significantly dysregulated. When upset, behaviors may include: Crying and screaming for extended periods, sometimes lasting several hours. This typically occurs in her bedroom, and staff are able to go downstairs and give her space when appropriate. Pulling out her own hair. Difficulty communicating the cause of her frustration or distress. We are looking for someone who understands that challenging behaviors are often a form of communication and can remain calm while following established strategies for de-escalation, giving space, and maintaining safety.

Job Responsibilities:

This is a one-on-one support position.

Responsibilities include:

Administering medications according to the client's medication protocols. Assisting the client with washing her hair while she is in the shower. Helping and encouraging the client to fold a load of laundry. Loading the dishwasher and assisting with basic daily living tasks. Providing support and de-escalation when challenging behaviors occur. Monitoring the client's mood and adjusting expectations and activities accordingly. On good mood days, encouraging community inclusion activities such as taking a walk at the nearby duck pond, weather permitting. Supporting the client with going to a fast-food restaurant to purchase lunch when she is comfortable getting out into the community. Providing patient, respectful, person-centered support while encouraging as much independence as possible.

Who We're Looking For:

The ideal DSP is someone who is calm, patient, confident, and not easily overwhelmed by loud or prolonged behaviors. You should be comfortable recognizing when to actively assist with de-escalation and when giving the client space is the most appropriate support.

Minimum Qualifications:

At least 1 year of experience supporting individuals with I/DD who have challenging behaviors Experience with behavioral support and de-escalation Comfortable administering medications after required training Dependable and consistent Patient and able to remain calm during prolonged periods of crying or screaming Strong understanding of dignity, choice, and person-centered support Comfortable providing assistance with personal care and household tasks This can be a very rewarding position for an experienced DSP who enjoys one-on-one support and understands how important consistency, patience, and relationship-building are when working with individuals who have limited verbal communication.

Pay:

$28 per hour and .65 cents per mile while driving her

Schedule:

Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30am-4:30pm

Location:

Beaverton To apply, please send us information about your previous DSP experience, particularly your experience supporting individuals with challenging behaviors.

Pay:

$28.00 per hour Expected hours: 16.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) Mileage reimbursement Paid time off Paid training

Work Location:

In person