Direct Support Professional (DSP) | Autism Support | Sherwood, OR

empoweredservices; Sherwood (OR); On-site; USD 31,684 - 34,440; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

401(k) with employer match

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Job summary

Empowered Services in Sherwood, OR is hiring a Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Caregiver to provide structured, routine-based support for an individual in the Sherwood area. The role emphasizes calm, observant assistance for autism and high-energy needs with 1:1 support and safety.

Responsibilities include ADLs, community activities, transitions, and behavior support; schedule is 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM during the summer with some school-year adjustments; pay is $23–$25 per hour; full-time

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and auto insurance.
• Ability to pass a background check (not all records disqualify).
• Experience as a DSP, caregiver, CNA, or in behavioral support preferred.
• Familiarity with autism spectrum support strongly preferred.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and attentive in high-energy environments.
• Comfortable providing constant supervision and engagement.
• Ability to follow and implement a structured support plan.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
• Maintain a consistent, structured daily routine
• Support community-based activities and outings
• Ensure continuous supervision and safety awareness
• Assist with transitions using proactive communication and planning
• Implement behavioral support strategies to manage dysregulation
• Promote engagement through movement, activity, and routine

Skills

Calm under pressure

Observation skills

Behavioral support

Structured routine

Clear communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

About Empowered Services

Empowered Services provides one-on-one, in-home and community-based support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) help individuals build independence, maintain structure, and engage meaningfully in their communities through consistent, person-centered care.

Position Overview

We are hiring a Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Caregiver to provide structured, routine-based support for an individual in the Sherwood, OR area. This is a high-engagement, active role that requires strong attention, consistency, and behavioral support skills. The ideal candidate is calm, observant, and confident supporting individuals with autism and high‑energy needs.

About the Individual

• Thrives on predictable routines and structured schedules
• Enjoys transit rides, walking through favorite stores, fishing, parks, and trampoline activities
• Is high-energy and benefits from staying active throughout the day
• Is naturally curious and observant, often asking questions about surroundings
• Requires close supervision and consistent guidance
• May become dysregulated with unexpected changes or transitions

Support Approach

• Can create and maintain a clear, consistent daily structure
• Uses calm, steady communication during moments of frustration
• Is skilled in redirecting and de‑escalating behaviors
• Prepares the individual for transitions and upcoming activities
• Understands the importance of routine, predictability, and sensory needs

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
• Maintain a consistent, structured daily routine
• Support community-based activities and outings
• Ensure continuous supervision and safety awareness
• Assist with transitions using proactive communication and planning
• Implement behavioral support strategies to manage dysregulation
• Promote engagement through movement, activity, and routine

Schedule

• Summer Schedule:
  Monday – Friday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• (Hours will adjust slightly during the school year — flexibility required.)

Pay & Benefits

• $23–$25/hour (based on experience, skills, and certifications)

Full‑time employees (30+ hours/week) are eligible for:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and auto insurance
• Ability to pass a background check (not all records disqualify)

• Experience as a DSP, caregiver, CNA, or in behavioral support preferred
• Familiarity with autism spectrum support strongly preferred
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and attentive in high-energy environments
• Comfortable providing constant supervision and engagement
• Ability to follow and implement a structured support plan

Why Join Empowered Services?

• Paid training provided (no prior DSP experience required)
• Supportive team environment with ongoing guidance
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact through person-centered care
• Consistent daytime schedule with active, engaging work