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Part Time Direct Support Professional Jobs in Portland, OR

Provide direct care and supervision in a supportive, therapeutic environment while documenting and ... plan, and paid time off. Part time and On-Call Support Counselors are needed to assist ...

Provide direct care and supervision in a supportive, therapeutic environment while documenting and ... plan, and paid time off. Part time and On-Call Support Counselors are needed to assist ...

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Part Time Direct Support Professional information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do part time direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time direct support professional in Portland, OR is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time direct support professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving skills, and an understanding of developmental disabilities. Familiarity with individual service plans (ISPs), documentation software, and CPR/First Aid certification is often required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting clients’ independence. These competencies ensure the safety, well-being, and personal growth of individuals receiving care, while maintaining compliance with organizational and legal standards.

What is a part time direct support professional?

Part Time Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. Working part time, they help clients with personal care, daily activities, medication management, and community involvement. DSPs also provide emotional support and help promote independence, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. Their schedules are flexible, often including evenings and weekends, making this role ideal for those seeking fulfilling work with flexible hours.

What are some common challenges faced by part time direct support professionals, and how can they be managed?

Part-time Direct Support Professionals often face challenges such as adapting to varying client needs, maintaining consistency in support with limited hours, and coordinating effectively with full-time staff. To manage these, it's important to communicate regularly with the team, stay updated on individual care plans, and be proactive in seeking clarification on responsibilities. Building strong relationships with both clients and colleagues helps ensure seamless support and a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Part Time Direct Support Professional vs Part Time Personal Care Assistant?

AspectPart Time Direct Support ProfessionalPart Time Personal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes DSP certificationCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentSupporting individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsAssisting individuals with daily living activities, often in private homes or facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome care agencies, healthcare providers

Both roles involve providing personal support, but Direct Support Professionals typically work with individuals with disabilities in various settings, focusing on independence and community integration. Personal Care Assistants mainly assist with daily living tasks in private or home settings. While certifications overlap, DSPs often require additional training related to disabilities. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Portland, OR? For Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Part Time Direct Support Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Part Time Direct Support Professional job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,921 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - CLS

Edwards Center Inc

Beaverton, OR • On-site

$20 - $20.81/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

About the Role:

The Part-Time Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Community Living Services (CLS) plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities by providing compassionate, person-centered support. This position focuses on assisting individuals in our day program and communities to develop skills, maintain independence, and achieve personal goals. The DSP collaborates closely with individuals, families, and interdisciplinary teams to create and implement individualized support plans that promote dignity and respect. Through daily interactions, the DSP fosters a safe, supportive, and empowering environment that encourages social inclusion and community participation. Ultimately, this role is essential in helping individuals lead fulfilling lives while ensuring their health, safety, and well-being are prioritized.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and no fewer than 3 years of driving experience.
  • Ability to pass background checks and drug screenings as required by state regulations.
  • Basic knowledge of developmental disabilities and experience working with individuals with special needs.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certification as a Direct Support Professional or equivalent credential.
  • Experience in Community Living Services or similar residential support settings.
  • Training in CPR, First Aid, and medication administration.
  • Familiarity with person-centered planning and positive behavioral support techniques.
  • Bilingual abilities or experience working with diverse populations.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide direct care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities in our day program and community settings.
  • Assist with daily living activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and transportation.
  • Implement individualized support plans that promote skill development, independence, and community integration.
  • Monitor and document individuals’ progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, reporting concerns to supervisors as needed.
  • Collaborate with families, healthcare providers, and other team members to ensure coordinated and effective care.
  • Promote positive social interactions and community involvement by facilitating recreational and educational activities.
  • Maintain a safe and clean environment that supports the physical and emotional well-being of individuals served.
  • Adhere to all organizational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements related to health, safety, and confidentiality.

Skills:

The required skills enable the DSP to effectively communicate and build trusting relationships with individuals and their support networks, ensuring clear understanding of needs and preferences. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for fostering a respectful and supportive environment that encourages independence and personal growth. Organizational and documentation skills are used daily to accurately track progress and maintain compliance with care plans and regulatory standards. Preferred skills such as CPR and medication administration training enhance the DSP’s ability to respond promptly and safely to health-related situations. Additionally, cultural competency and bilingual abilities support inclusive care and effective communication within diverse communities.