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Direct Service Worker Dsw Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Service Worker Dsw information

What is a direct service worker?

Direct Service Workers (DSWs) are professionals who provide hands-on support and assistance to individuals with disabilities, elderly clients, or those needing help with daily living activities. Their responsibilities often include helping with personal care, mobility, meal preparation, medication reminders, and participating in community activities. DSWs work in various settings such as clients' homes, group homes, or care facilities. They play a vital role in improving the quality of life and promoting independence for the people they support.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a direct service worker?

To thrive as a Direct Service Worker (DSW), you need a solid understanding of personal care, basic healthcare, and support techniques, often backed by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant training. Familiarity with documentation software, care plans, and sometimes CPR or first aid certifications are typically expected. Patience, empathy, strong communication, and reliability are vital soft skills that enable effective support for clients with disabilities or special needs. These skills ensure clients receive safe, respectful, and person-centered care, which is crucial for their well-being and independence.

What challenges do direct service workers face when providing in-home support, and how can they manage them?

Direct Service Workers often encounter challenges such as communicating with clients who have diverse needs, managing unpredictable schedules, and handling emotionally demanding situations. Building strong communication skills and practicing patience are crucial for addressing clients' unique preferences and behaviors. It's also important for DSWs to maintain clear documentation and set boundaries to prevent burnout. Support from supervisors and ongoing training can help DSWs navigate these challenges and deliver high-quality care.

What do you need to be a direct service worker?

To become a direct service worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant training or certification in caregiving or social services, and strong communication and interpersonal skills. Some positions may require background checks and basic first aid or CPR certification. The role often involves working in a community or healthcare setting, providing support and assistance to clients with daily activities or health needs.

What jobs can I get with a direct service worker DSW?

A direct service worker (DSW) can find employment in roles such as personal care aide, home health aide, or behavioral health technician, providing support to individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or mental health needs. These jobs typically involve assisting with daily activities, implementing care plans, and may require certification or training in CPR and first aid. Employment settings include home care, assisted living facilities, group homes, and community health organizations.

Direct Support Worker (DSW) - Caregiver

Salem, OR • On-site

GT Independence
Health Care and Social Assistance • 201 - 500 employees

$22/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


GT Independence rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Make a Meaningful Impact Every Day
At GT Independence, people are at the heart of everything we do. If you thrive in a collaborative environment, love what you do, and are eager to grow, you're in the right place. Discover a career where your work genuinely improves lives and supports a mission that matters.
Our Mission: To help people live a life of their choosing, regardless of age or ability.
GT Independence has earned multiple awards for being an exceptional workplace, including being named a 2026 National "Best and Brightest Companies to Work For." We are also proudly certified as a Great Place to Work® for 2025/2026-a distinction reserved for top employers committed to outstanding employee experiences.
We are looking for compassionate and reliable Direct Support Workers (Caregivers) to support individuals who self-direct their services. In this role, you will work directly with the person receiving services in their home and community, helping them live as independently as possible.
This is a unique opportunity to provide one-on-one support while respecting each individual's choices, preferences, and goals.
What You'll Do:
Daily Living Support
  • Assist with personal care needs such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting
  • Support mobility, transfers, and safe movement
  • Help with meals, eating, and maintaining safety

Household & Routine Support
  • Assist with light housekeeping and maintaining a safe home environment
  • Support daily routines and independent living skills

Community Engagement
  • Help individuals access and participate in their community
  • Support social, recreational, and personal activities

Health & Service Plan Support
  • Follow the individual's Service Plan and approved tasks
  • Assist with health-related needs as directed and authorized

Person-Centered Support
  • Respect and support each individual's choices and independence
  • Work under the direction of the individual receiving services

Documentation & Accountability
  • Record services provided accurately and timely
  • Complete required trainings and follow program guidelines

What Makes This Role Different
  • The individual you support directs their own care
  • You are working in a person-centered, self-directed model
  • Schedules and tasks are often tailored to the individual-not a facility or agency

Qualifications
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Ability to communicate clearly and professionally
  • Reliable, patient, and respectful of others
  • Ability to follow direction and care plans

Preferred:
  • Experience in caregiving, home health, or direct support
  • Valid driver's license and auto insurance (if providing transportation)

Requirements
  • Pass a background check
  • Complete required training
  • Follow all state and program guidelines

Why Join Us
  • Flexible scheduling based on your availability
  • Meaningful, one-on-one work
  • Opportunity to make a direct impact on someone's independence and quality of life
  • Supportive team and ongoing training opportunities

As a family-founded national leader in personal and financial services for individuals who rely on home- and community-based care, GT Independence supports tens of thousands of people across the country.
Our team is driven by trust, autonomy, and-yes-fun. We believe great teams come from people who are intrinsically motivated, empowered, and valued. We respect each other, we care about the work we do, and we succeed because we work with purpose.
We value excellence, but we won't micromanage to achieve it. If you are self-motivated, we give you the space and support to grow and thrive. Team members enjoy flexible paid time off, competitive wages & benefits, and meaningful opportunities for professional growth.
Grow your career with us. Grow your impact with us.
What Culture & Belonging Means at GT: Bring Your Authentic Self To Work
GT is committed to being a welcoming and inclusive community. We aspire for all staff to feel comfortable bringing their full, authentic selves to work. We want people to feel valued and have a sense of belonging. GT strives to create a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We recognize that our diversity makes us stronger. It also drives innovation and ultimately helps us achieve our mission of self-determination.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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