Direct Support Crisis Specialist

Level:	Intermediate

"Over the years, the thing I like most about working at SACU as a Direct Support Crisis Specialist is getting to see people change for the better over time. I like being here to watch individuals grow." – Donna Denton

You may be a Direct Support Crisis Specialist if you…

Have a passion to provide individualized, person-centered supports to individuals who are considered to be in crisis
Can facilitate clear and efficient communication
Can be described as responsible, reliable, and flexible
Have the ability to explain complex information in a way a variety of people can understand
Can problem solve and quickly assess situations to keep yourself and the people you serve safe
Have skills in working with individuals who may experience emotional, behavioral, or physical challenges
Have problem-solving and crisis management skills and do well under pressure

As a Direct Support Crisis Specialist…

You will support people who experience an intellectual or developmental disability(I/DD) at the Stabilization and Crisis Unit within the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services.

You will provide direct care and/or support in a 24-hour residential group home to children and adults in: behavioral management, safety, personal care, nutrition, housekeeping, health care and other daily activities within the home and the community. You will also maintain the home/property in a safe and sanitary manner.

You will follow medical and safety protocols, and know each person’s Positive Behavior Support Plan (PBSP) and Individual Support Plan (ISP). Duties may include administering medication and demonstrating problem solving skills and anger management skills.

You will also be responsible for responding to crisis situations at the group home, in the community or assist another SACU home as needed.

This position is represented by AFSCME.

Average Wage Range

$36,000-$56,000 annual salary

To become a Direct Support Crisis Specialist ...

Must have the ability to pass and maintain the following:

Crisis-level certification

Oregon Intervention System Certification.

CPR/First Aid Certification.
Medication Administration Skills.
Work site is in a home environment, which is staffed 24 hours/day, seven days/week.
Work hours and shifts of this position that will meet the needs of the people in the home and will be expected to work any shift, including weekends and holidays.
Must be able to work occasional, required overtime to ensure adequate staffing requirements.
Work with combative, unpredictable, argumentative, aggressive children or adults who experience intellectual or developmental disability and who may be a danger to themselves and others daily.
Frequent daily lifting up to 75 lbs. involving transferring, positioning and moving individuals and/or moving program supplies.
Must be able to engage and maintain Oregon Invention System (OIS) approved Protective Physical Interventions (PPIs) for one (1) hour or less.
Must maintain a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record
Must be able to speak, read, and write in English
Must have basic computer skills