1

Intellectual Disability Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

We're seeking a Director of Artificial Intelligence who's ready to be part of our mission to ... Medical, Dental, Disability, and Life Insurance * Holistic Health & Well-being programs * Flexible ...

Special Education Tutor

Portland, OR ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, emotional and behavioral disorders, ADHD, individualized education programs, differentiated instruction ...

Showing results 41-60

Intellectual Disability information

See Portland, OR salary details

$16

$24

$34

How much do intellectual disability jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for intellectual disability in Portland, OR is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an intellectual disability professional do?

Intellectual disability professionals are specialists who support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They may include special education teachers, social workers, counselors, and direct support professionals. Their primary role is to assess needs, develop individualized care or education plans, provide support with daily living skills, and advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities. They often collaborate with families, healthcare providers, and community organizations. Their work helps improve quality of life and promote independence for those with intellectual disabilities.

What is the difference between Intellectual Disability vs Special Education Teacher?

AspectIntellectual DisabilitySpecial Education Teacher
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in special education or related field, certification may be neededRequires a bachelor's degree in education, certification in special education often required
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with intellectual disabilities in schools, clinics, or residential settingsWorks in classrooms, schools, and educational programs supporting students with disabilities
Industry UsageFocuses on diagnosing, supporting, and developing programs for individuals with intellectual disabilitiesFocuses on teaching, developing curricula, and supporting students with various disabilities

Intellectual Disability refers to a condition characterized by below-average intellectual functioning and adaptive skills, requiring specialized support. Special Education Teachers are professionals who develop and implement educational plans for students with disabilities, including those with intellectual disabilities. While both roles are interconnected, one is a condition and the other a profession dedicated to supporting individuals with such conditions.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, behavioral concerns, and the need to tailor support to each person's unique abilities. Addressing these challenges involves practicing patience, using clear and adaptive communication methods, and collaborating closely with families and interdisciplinary teams. Ongoing training, access to community resources, and a supportive work environment can also help professionals effectively manage these challenges while promoting positive outcomes for clients.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work as an intellectual disability support professional?

To thrive as an Intellectual Disability Support Professional, you need a solid understanding of developmental disabilities, person-centered care principles, and often a relevant certification or associate degree. Familiarity with individualized support plans, documentation software, and basic first aid or CPR certification is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust and effectively supporting clients' needs. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure clients receive safe, respectful, and effective support that enhances their independence and quality of life.
What are popular job titles related to Intellectual Disability jobs in Portland, OR? For Intellectual Disability jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Intellectual Disability jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Intellectual Disability jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Intellectual Disability job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,899 per year, or $25 per hour.

Direct Support Professional NW Portland Area

Grow Development Disability Solutions

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

$24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Grow Developmental Disability Solutions
Job Description: Direct Support Worker for Children and/or Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Make a Differenceโ€”One Person at a Time

At Grow Developmental Disability Solutions, youโ€™re not just filling a shiftโ€”youโ€™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:ย A day in the life as a DSP

As a DSP, youโ€™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 youโ€™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 Youโ€™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 documentationย 
  • Ensure safety and well-being at all times

What Weโ€™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):ย 

  • 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):ย 

  • 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):ย 

  • 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):ย 

  • 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 driverโ€™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 Disabilityย 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.ย 

We're anย 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.