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Direct Professional Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional

Lagrange, GA · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with individuals who have physical and/or intellectual disabilities with the aim of assisting the individual ...

Direct Support Professional

Jackson, GA

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with individuals who have physical and/or intellectual disabilities with the aim of assisting the individual ...

Direct Support Professional

Jackson, GA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with individuals who have physical and/or intellectual disabilities with the aim of assisting the individual ...

Direct Service Professional About Claratel Behavioral Health Claratel Behavioral Health is an innovative, community-based behavioral health and developmental disabilities services organization ...

Description Direct Support Professional (DSP) At Caregiver, we believe everyone deserves to live their best, most independent life - and we're here to make that happen. As a leading Texas-based ...

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Direct Professional information

What is a direct professional?

Direct Professionals are individuals who provide direct support and care to people with physical, developmental, or intellectual disabilities. Their responsibilities typically include assisting clients with daily living activities, implementing care plans, teaching life skills, and ensuring the safety and well-being of those they support. Direct Professionals often work in residential facilities, group homes, or clients’ own homes, and play a crucial role in helping individuals lead more independent and fulfilling lives. They may also communicate with families, healthcare providers, and case managers to coordinate comprehensive care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, foundational knowledge of personal care, and an understanding of disability services. Familiarity with documentation systems, incident reporting tools, and sometimes certifications like CPR/First Aid are typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, patience, and reliability help build trust and support with clients and their families. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing safe, compassionate, and effective care to individuals with developmental or physical disabilities.

How does a direct professional typically collaborate with other members of the care team to support clients?

Direct Professionals often work closely with supervisors, therapists, nurses, and other support staff to provide comprehensive care to clients. They participate in regular team meetings to discuss client progress, share observations, and adjust care plans as needed. Effective communication and cooperation are essential, as Direct Professionals relay important information about clients' daily activities, behaviors, and needs, ensuring everyone on the team is informed and aligned. This collaborative approach helps create a supportive and consistent environment for clients, ultimately improving outcomes.

What is the difference between Direct Professional vs Healthcare Assistant?

AspectDirect ProfessionalHealthcare Assistant
Required CredentialsVaries by industry; often certifications or licenses specific to the fieldTypically requires a healthcare assistant certification or diploma
Work EnvironmentIndustry-specific settings such as social services, education, or healthcareHospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and home care
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various sectors including social work, education, and healthcarePrimarily in healthcare and patient care settings
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared with healthcare roles requiring similar certificationsCompared with other healthcare support roles like Nursing Assistant

The main difference between a Direct Professional and a Healthcare Assistant lies in their industry focus and required credentials. Direct Professionals work across various sectors with industry-specific certifications, while Healthcare Assistants primarily work in healthcare settings with healthcare-specific training. Both roles support clients or patients but differ in scope and environment.

What cities in Georgia are hiring for Direct Professional jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most Direct Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Professional job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with individuals who have physical and/or intellectual disabilities with the aim of assisting the individual to become integrated into his/her community in the least restrictive environment. A DSP also acts as an advocate for the disabled individual, in communicating their needs, self-expression and goals.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE JOB

  • Ability to perform First Aid/CPR.
  • Ability to observe and assess the needs of individuals.
  • Ability to maintain information in a confidential manner.
  • Ability to speak clearly and express oneself effectively in English.
  • Ability to read and comprehend instructions written in English.
  • Ability to organize, prioritize and multi-task work assignments.
  • Ability to learn and apply positive methods to modify behavior.
  • Ability to facilitate groups and/ provide individual skill instruction.
  • Ability to write legibly in English in a clear, concise, and logical manner.
  • Ability to understand and relate to persons with intellectual disabilities.
  • Ability to apply the principles of "Everyday Lives "and Self Determination.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in field location assignments.
  • Ability to maintain professional and respectful interaction with individuals and co-workers.
  • Knowledge and the ability to utilize good listening skills & comprehend verbal instructions given in English.
  • Knowledge of acceptable social, work, and interpersonal behavior.
  • Knowledge of basic computer skills required.

DUTIES OF DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF include, but are not limited to:

  • Provides personal care and protective oversight andsupervision.
  • Provide services, supports, care and treatment and/or supervision asrequired.
  • Participates in the development and implementation of each (ISP) Individual's Support Plan.
  • Provides supervision as determined in the (ISP) Individuals' Support Plans.
  • Adheres to Department of Human Resources Office of Regulatory Services, requirements.
  • Responsible for individual's work related personal and financial transactions.
  • Ensures that the facility or home is safe, comfortable, well maintained, and free from hazards.
  • Provides coverage in emergency situations.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Assesses and documents instructional needs initially and on an ongoing basis.
  • Ensures individuals' health, safety and welfare, enhances the quality of individuals' lives, andsupports communityinclusion.
  • Provides direct assistance to the participant in self-help, socialization, and adaptive skills training, retention andimprovement.
  • Implements the behavioral support plans of participants to reduce inappropriate and/or maladaptive behaviors and to acquire alternative adaptive skills andbehaviors.
  • Provides assistance and training on independent community living skills, such as personal hygiene, light housework, laundry, meal preparation, transportation, grocery shopping, using the telephone, and medication and money management.
  • Provides direct assistance in teaching such concepts as rule compliance, attendance, task completion, problem solving, endurance, work speed, work accuracy, increased attention span, motor skills, and safety to groups ofparticipants.
  • Provides direct assistance in training appropriate social interaction skills required in the workplace to groups ofparticipants.
  • Provides participant-specific assistance, such as assistance with personal care and self-administration of medications.
  • Implements the behavioral support plans of participants to reduce inappropriate and/or maladaptive behaviors and to acquire alternative adaptive skills andbehaviors.
  • Participates in the implementing of all program plans designed to enhance the individual's social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and independent living skills.
  • Completes and updates all daily, weekly and monthly records, reports, logs, casework notes, administrative paperwork, fiscal reports, and medical records in an accurate, timely, and professional manner.
  • Collaborates and cooperates with involved agencies, family members, and other service providers; participates in meetings and provides relevant information.
  • Transports individuals in personal and/or company vehicle for community outings or scheduled appointments.
  • Provides support and assistance to individuals in arranging for medical care when responsible to do so and follows health care recommendations.
  • Utilizes community resources to promote community integration, independence, and interdependence.

COMPETENCY[Education, Credentials, and Experience]

  • High school diploma or General Education Development (GED).
  • Professional License ifapplicable.
  • Pass State PCA CompetencyTest if diploma is unavailable.
  • The knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the functions of this position.

EXPECTATIONS

  • Must be able to drive passenger vehicle if applicable.
  • Must have an annual Negative test results for TB Skin Test.
  • Must have the ability to obtain clearances as defined by regulations.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours to meet individual's and program's needs.
  • Must be able to travel to trainings/meetings upon request of program director.
  • Must have a valid driver's license, good driving record, and access to a reliable vehicle to attend trainings, meetings, and/or transport individual to appointments.
  • Must be able to accompany individuals into the community and provide support and assistance in interactions in the community while maintaining sensitivity to the rights and dignity of the individual.
  • Must have an annual (Physical) health examination with signed statement from a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant that you are free of communicable disease.