Grow Developmental Disability Solutions
Job Description: Direct Support Worker for Children and/or Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Make a Difference—One Person at a Time
At Grow Developmental Disability Solutions, you’re not just filling a shift—you’re helping someone live a more independent and fulfilling life. We are a person-centered agency, meaning every individual we support is treated with respect, dignity, and a plan built around their goals.
Want to see what the job looks like? Watch a quick video here: A day in the life as a DSP
As a DSP, you’ll work one-on-one with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD), supporting daily routines, community involvement, and personal goals in a way that is engaging, respectful, and empowering.
If you’re looking for meaningful work where what you do truly matters each day, this is the place to be.
Why People Choose This Role
- Consistent, meaningful one-on-one work
- Flexible scheduling that fits your life
- Supportive team that has your back
- The opportunity to truly make an impact every day
What You’ll Do
- Support daily routines (cooking, cleaning, personal care with the client)
- Help clients get into the community and stay engaged
- Follow care plans and goals
- Communicate with families and your team
- Complete notes and documentation
- Ensure safety and well-being at all times
What We’re Looking For
- Dependable and shows up
- Positive attitude and flexible mindset
- Strong communication skills
- Comfortable working independently
Current Clients Needing Additional Support
Client 1 (NW Portland):
- Male | 17 yrs | 97229
- Schedule: Looking for help on the weekends. Open to week day support as well. Times are flexible.
- Likes: He loves having fun, enjoys anything water related, playing in the sand, beach, books, go-to toys, his tablet, youtube kids, music and sensory related things such as beans, kinetic sand, etc
- Needs: He needs help increasing his ability to communicate his needs, feelings and using his AAC device. Build social engagement during community activities. Working on greater independence with toileting, hygiene, daily living skills and household tasks
Client 2 (NW Portland):
- Male | 12 yrs | 97106
- Schedule: Looking for help Monday-Friday from 2:50 pm- 6 pm. Sat/Sun are optional from 12-7 pm
- Likes: He likes order and consistency, having his own belongings and books, being with family at home, playing with his toys and figurines.
- Needs: He needs help increasing his communication, working on social skills with peers, reducing aggressive behaviors
Client 3 (NW Portland):
- Male | 9 yrs | 97202
- Schedule: Looking for help Mon - Fri from 10/11 - 4:30. Open to having an on call/back up DSP. Needs someone by August 14th
- Likes: Active and loves the outdoors, including swimming and water play. He enjoys his toys, arts and crafts, reading books, visiting the library, and playing with his wooden train track. Prefers an environment with low sounds and low stimulation.
- Needs: Follow his established daily routine consistently. Allow him time to ask questions and express himself in his own way. Provide ample notice and preparation for all transitions. Give a heads-up before any anticipated loud sound; noise-canceling headphones are a preferred support tool. Offer frequent opportunities to be active outdoors and develop muscle tone; limit screen time to encourage outdoor activity. Looking for a DSP with a calm demeanor.
Client 4 (NW Portland):
- Male | 16 yrs | 97229
- Schedule: Wed - Fri 9-5 but family is flexible on time
- Likes: This client enjoys talking about his interest with others, is an accomplished artist, loves to paint and create comics. He loves his family, playing video games and spending time outside. He loves going on walks with his mom.
- Needs: This client wants to learn how to cook small meals and improve kitchen safety. He is also working on promoting healthy and age-appropriate social skills, community integration and relationship building. Other goals include becoming more independent with bathing, personal self care and personal hygiene, learning how to be safer in the community and becoming more familiar with the public transit system
Requirements
- 18+ years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 1+ year of caregiving or related experience
- Valid driver’s license, insurance, and reliable transportation
- Smartphone required
- Must be able to successfully pass all state-required background checks and meet all ODDS employment eligibility requirements.
- CPR/First Aid/AED (or willing to obtain)
Pay & Benefits
- $24.00/hour
- Flexible schedule
- Health & dental insurance
- No-cost health plan (15+ hrs/week), including:
- $25,000 life insurance
- $2,000 accidental coverage
- Virtual care options for dependents
- Whole Life Insurance (Voluntary benefit)
- Time off Policy
- Next-day Pay (options)
- Flexible Work Schedule
- Paid training (Subject to variation)
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Grow Developmental Disability Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome
candidates from diverse backgrounds and encourage individuals with disabilities to apply.
About Us: Grow Development and Disability Solutions is a community living support agency that works with the Intellectually/Developmentally Disabled community here in Oregon. Our vision is to partner with families and support workers to provide the highest quality of care and develop long-lasting relationships. Some of our clients need part-time Direct Support Workers and some need full-time.
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.