Direct Support Professional (DSP)

What is a Direct Support Professional (DSP)?

DSPs support people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities in their own homes and communities. DSPs provide the supports people need to live self-directed lives, including caregiver supports like food prep, personal care, and following support plans. While there are some aspects of caregiving as a DSP, there is so much more to it. Your day will include helping someone go out and have fun, maintain their home, plan meals, cook, follow personal health routines, and achieve their dreams! DSPs work with the people they support in partnership, helping them make informed decisions about everyday choices, advocating for them while encouraging them to advocate for themselves, and supporting them in maintaining meaningful relationships.

Wage & Benefits: $18.50 per hour

• We are also offering a $1,000 sign on bonus that is paid out in increments at set milestones of your employment!


• We offer Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Supplemental Insurance and FSA for full-time employees, 401(K), Gym discounts and reimbursements, and other lifestyle discounts available to all employees.

 Position Type: Full-Time 

• All open shift hours are set and vary depending on the needs of the individual. Hours 30 and above are considered full time. Some Part-Time positions may be available.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age when starting employment.


• Must have and show basic computer skills and can learn agency applications.


• Excellent interpersonal skills.


• Well-organized and attentive to detail.


• Cooperative and willing to learn.


• Ability to interpret various instructions.


• Enhanced math skills – must be able to accurately balance a budget and basic math transactions.


• Professional, clear, and positive oral and written communication skills both expressive and receptive.


• Must be able to read, write, and speak English (reasonable accommodation may be made for some positions).


• PCL’s Team members must have dependable, reliable, and regular work attendance, and must adhere to attendance policies.

Job Duties:

• Various positions may involve distributing medications, cooking, house cleaning, yard maintenance, handling challenging behaviors, and intimate care.


• Promote and implement PCL’s mission in the lives of those we support.


• Provide a stable living environment by respecting dignity, individual choice, input, and health and safety needs.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift and transfer 25 pounds minimum; some positions may require more.


• Appropriately and efficiently responding to emergencies and/or crises (including but not limited to the use of physical intervention).

Certifications and Training:

• Must pass required DHS background check and Protective Service Investigations.


• Most positions require a valid driver’s license; some positions may be available for non-drivers.


• Complete and maintain all certifications as required by the position, PCL, and other governing agencies.


• Must be able to obtain and maintain certification to a satisfactory level in Oregon Intervention System (training provided if hired).


• Must be able to obtain and maintain certification in CPR (training provided if hired).


• Complete all duties related to being a Mandatory Abuse Reporter.


• New hire orientation and on-site training must be completed within 60 days of hire.