Caregiver (DSP) - Weekend Supported Living Specialist

To qualify for the Caregiver (DSP) - Weekend Supported Living Specialist position at UCP Oregon, you need a high school diploma or GED. You also should be at least 18 years old and possess a current driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and auto insurance. A clean driving record, along with a physical capability to lift 50lbs, is essential, as well as passing a background check and reference check. While experience in the developmental disability field is preferred, it's not required.

In the role of Caregiver (DSP) - Weekend Supported Living Specialist at UCP Oregon, your day will involve providing hands-on support to individuals with developmental disabilities. You'll assist them with daily chores, personal care, and help them participate in community activities. This position allows for the development of strong one-on-one relationships, making each day unique and fulfilling as you empower clients to lead their lives independently.

Caregiver (DSP) - Weekend Supported Living Specialists at UCP Oregon typically work weekends, specifically on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 AM to 6 PM. Your total weekly hours will range from 16 to 18 hours, dependent on start and end times. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to work on agency holidays that fall on a weekend, allowing for extra pay!

Working as a Caregiver (DSP) - Weekend Supported Living Specialist at UCP Oregon comes with a variety of benefits. You’ll earn a competitive pay of $20.52 per hour, with annual wage increases based on performance. Additionally, you'll enjoy perks like paid sick leave, holiday pay (with double pay for the first 12 hours on holidays), mileage reimbursement, and partial cell phone reimbursement. The position also offers a fun and casual work environment, with ample opportunities for growth in your career.

Applying for the Caregiver (DSP) - Weekend Supported Living Specialist position at UCP Oregon is straightforward. All you need to do is click the 'Apply for this job' button provided in the listing. UCP Oregon is an Equal Opportunity Employer, so they welcome applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals.

When answering this question, focus on your passion for empowering others and your commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Discuss any personal experiences or values that drive you to work in this field, as well as your enthusiasm for supporting clients in achieving their goals.

It's important to demonstrate your ability to remain calm and collected under pressure. Provide specific examples of past experiences where you handled stressful situations effectively, highlighting your problem-solving and communication skills. Emphasize your commitment to creating a supportive and safe environment for your clients.

In your response, share a specific story that illustrates how you supported someone in becoming more independent. Discuss the methods or strategies you used to encourage their autonomy and the positive outcomes that resulted. Focus on your ability to foster self-advocacy and confidence.

Highlight essential skills such as empathy, effective communication, patience, and problem-solving. You may want to discuss the importance of being adaptable and having a sincere desire to help others. Providing personal insights into how these skills have been vital in your previous experiences can help strengthen your answer.

Talk about the importance of trust and respect when building relationships with clients. Share your approach to getting to know their interests, needs, and preferences, and how you actively engage them in activities they enjoy. Emphasize that these connections enhance their overall experience and promote their independence.

Demonstrate your knowledge of motivational techniques and your ability to engage clients by emphasizing the importance of understanding their perspective. Discuss strategies you would use to empower clients to see the value in participation, such as presenting choices or offering positive reinforcement.

Research UCP Oregon’s mission and values prior to the interview. Articulate your understanding of their dedication to supporting individuals with disabilities and empowering them to live fulfilling lives. Relate their mission to your personal values and professional goals to show your genuine interest in the organization.

Explain the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and how you manage this aspect while still being compassionate and supportive. Discuss previous experiences that required you to set boundaries, emphasizing your understanding of the balance that needs to be maintained for the benefit of the client and yourself.

Talk about the organizational skills and tools you use to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively. You could mention using calendars, checklists, and open communication with team members as ways to ensure that clients' needs are met efficiently without overlooking any important details.

Share your aspirations related to growth and development within the caregiving field. Discuss your desire to acquire new skills, possibly advancing into leadership or specialized roles. Mention how working with UCP Oregon aligns with your ambitions to enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.