Caregiver (DSP) - Optimistic, Friendly Woman

As a Caregiver (DSP) at UCP Oregon, your primary responsibilities include providing extensive personal assistance to an optimistic woman living independently. You'll help with daily living tasks—such as showering, dressing, and administering medication— while also supporting her in household chores, cooking, and errands. Additionally, you'll accompany her to community outings and spiritual services, ensuring she enjoys an enriched, fulfilling life.

To apply for the Caregiver (DSP) position at UCP Oregon, you should possess a high school diploma or GED. While experience in the developmental disability field is preferred, it’s not mandatory. Furthermore, female applicants may be given preference due to the client's personal privacy needs. You’ll also need to pass pre-hiring screenings including a reference check and a physical test.

As a Caregiver (DSP) at UCP Oregon, you will work two shifts per week, totaling 42 hours. Your hours are 2pm Sunday through 8pm Monday and Friday 8am-8pm. It’s also important to note that you will work your standard hours on agency holidays, ensuring that this wonderful individual receives the care she needs, even on special dates.

At UCP Oregon, Caregivers (DSP) enjoy a variety of benefits, including competitive hourly pay starting at $18.00, health, vision, and alternative care coverage, accrued paid time off that increases with tenure, and a 401k retirement plan with employer contributions. You’ll also have the opportunity for mileage reimbursement if you drive for UCP, making this position not only rewarding but beneficial!

While driving experience is preferred for the Caregiver (DSP) position at UCP Oregon, it’s not strictly required. However, if you choose to drive for the agency, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, a reliable vehicle, and a clean driving record. Being able to provide transportation can enhance the level of support you offer to the individual.

When answering this question, emphasize your passion for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Discuss how you admire UCP Oregon’s mission to empower these individuals to lead fulfilling lives and how you are eager to contribute positively to their daily experiences.

It's vital to approach this question by highlighting the importance of patience and understanding. Describe how you would listen attentively to the client's feelings, provide comfort, and support them in expressing their needs while respecting their emotions and privacy.

If you have prior experience, share specific examples that illustrate your direct involvement. If you don’t have experience, focus on transferable skills, such as empathy, patience, and any relevant training. Emphasize your enthusiasm for learning and adapting your skills to support your client effectively.

Focus on how you prioritize open communication and understanding the client’s preferences. Share how you might engage in activities they enjoy and respect their individuality, which will help foster trust and a positive relationship.

Discuss your time management strategies, such as prioritizing tasks based on urgency and the needs of the client. You could also mention how staying organized with a schedule and being flexible allows you to effectively manage your responsibilities while providing quality care.

Prepare for this by researching UCP Oregon’s background, mission, and values. During the interview, express your admiration for their commitment to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and explain how their goals align with your own care philosophy.

Being frank about your comfort levels is crucial. If you have prior experience in personal care, emphasize that. If not, talk about your willingness to learn and your respectful approach towards the client’s dignity and privacy in all aspects of care.

Focus on how you would encourage the client to make choices in their daily life and participate in activities they enjoy independently. Mention ways to create opportunities for decision-making while offering assistance when necessary.

Share your adaptability skills. Explain how you would closely observe changes in behavior or needs, communicate effectively to understand the underlying issues, and adjust care strategies accordingly while maintaining a compassionate approach.

Highlight your passion for working with individuals with disabilities and your genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in their lives. Discuss specific skills, experiences, and attributes that align with UCP Oregon’s values and the particular needs of the client.