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

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 

You will be supporting an individual who:

• 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

This role is best suited for someone who:

• 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