Substitute Direct Support Professional

Substitute Direct Support Professional

Description

Position Summary

Substitute Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide temporary staffing coverage across all programs (Residential, DSA, and SLP)  to ensure continuity of care and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

These employees are hired as interim replacements to supplement the workforce during vacancies, absences, or short-term needs. While substitute DSPs are not eligible for company benefits, they do receive statutory benefits as required by law.

Essential Functions

• Provide direct care and supervision in accordance with ISPs and BSPs
• Assist with ADLs and IADLs including hygiene, meals, mobility, and medication administration
• Maintain accurate documentation of services, incidents, and supported individual updates
• Support individuals in community outings, appointments, and recreational activities
• Uphold safety protocols, emergency procedures, and health standards
• Maintain cleanliness and order of assigned program site
• Communicate professionally with program staff and scheduling personnel
• Adapt quickly to different program environments and team dynamics

Substitute Work Requirements

To remain active in the Substitute DSP pool, employees must:

• Work a minimum of 80 hours per month
• Respond to shift requests in a timely manner (within designated scheduling windows)
• Maintain professional communication with scheduling staff, including availability updates and confirmation

Work Location Expectations

Substitute Direct Support Professionals are hired to provide staffing support across all Step Forward Activities program locations as operational needs require. Substitute employees are expected to accept assignments and perform work at any assigned location when requested.

Employees who require a workplace accommodation that may affect their ability to work at certain locations must submit a formal accommodation request to the Executive Director. Step Forward Activities will engage in the interactive process and provide reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable law.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older
• Valid Oregon Driver’s License and insurable driving record
• CPR/First Aid and OIS certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs and assist with physical transfers
• Flexibility to work varied shifts including evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities preferred
• Basic computer skills preferred

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

*Step Forward reserves the right to terminate employment if a substitute employee fails to meet the minimum hours of required work per month. 

Step Forward Activities, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

About the Company

Our mission is to provide person-centered care and unwavering advocacy for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. We are committed to empowering those we support to live meaningful lives free from societal stigma and barriers. Guided by the belief that every person holds inherent value, we strive to foster inclusion, dignity, and opportunity—supporting each individual in achieving their fullest potential and living a life as rich and fulfilling as possible. "Advocacy begins when we challenge not just systems, but assumptions—when we choose to believe that people with disabilities deserve not just access, but opportunity; not just care, but connection." | Step Forward Activities |