There has never been a better time to become a Direct Support Professional in Oregon.
Outside of the obvious – the satisfaction that comes from contributing to people’s independence and increasing their standard of life – the reasons for starting a career as a direct support professional is numerous.
Direct support professionals (DSPs) are among those on the front lines of support for those in the intellectual and developmental disability communities (I/DD). They are vital members of any agency that serves the I/DD community.
Due to a number of factors, including increases in the U.S. population and a social shift that supports members of the I/DD community to live independently and in settings of their choice, the number of direct support professional positions is growing. It is estimated that by 2025 there will be a need for a 50% increase in the number of DSPs in Oregon.
What is the Bottom line? You. You are need. You have the power to make a massive impact in someone’s life.
How much do DSPs Typically Earn?
DSPs typically earn between $15 – $18 / hour. Because different people need different supports throughout the day, there are a wide variety of shifts available from standard day shifts, to overnight, and evening shifts, so you can have a schedule that truly works for you and your loved ones.
Receive on the Job Training
The minimum qualifications for starting a career as a DSP include: having your high-school diploma, or GED equivilent, being over 18 years of age, and having a valid driver’s license (should the job require you to transport clients). Standardized training curriculum for all providers in Oregon ensures Direct Support Professionals across all agencies have the skills necessary to excel at their jobs regardless of their prior experience level. Each provider also typically has a series of agency-specific trainings that occur before working independently with clients. In order to help guarantee DSPs continue to have tools needed to support clients with the highest standard of care, providers also provide DSPs with a minimum of 12 additional paid training hours each year.
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