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Direct Service Professional Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CMT Services Inc

Direct Service Professional

Ebensburg, PA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Direct Service Professional Place of Performance: ODP - SOF - Ebensburg State Centre 4501 Admiral Peary Highway Ebensburg, PA 15931 Shift Time: 24-hour care facility. Shifts and hours will vary. One ...

HCAOA

Direct Service Professional

Beachwood, OH · On-site

$15/hr

Homewatch CareGivers offers the comprehensive home care services and we believe that exceptional ... Our Homewatch CareGivers University is a professionally-developed training platform designed to ...

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How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in the United States is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Direct Service Professionals and how can they be addressed?

Direct Service Professionals often encounter challenges such as managing clients with complex behavioral needs, maintaining clear communication among team members, and balancing documentation requirements with hands-on support. To address these challenges, it's important to participate in regular training sessions, collaborate closely with supervisors and colleagues, and utilize available support resources. Building strong relationships with clients and fostering a positive, team-oriented environment also help make the role more rewarding and manageable.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Direct Service Professional typically earns below $10,000 per month, but some high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or skilled trades can reach or exceed this income without a degree. These jobs often require specialized skills, certifications, or experience and may involve commission, bonuses, or overtime to achieve higher earnings.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A Direct Service Professional can increase earnings by working multiple shifts, gaining specialized certifications, or taking on additional clients, often through flexible scheduling. However, earning $2000 weekly typically requires high hourly rates, extensive experience, or supplementing income with related roles such as caregiving or training in specialized skills.

What is a direct service professional?

A direct service professional is a worker who provides support and assistance to individuals with disabilities, mental health issues, or other needs. They often work in settings such as homes, community centers, or healthcare facilities, and may require certifications like CPR or first aid. Their role involves helping clients with daily activities, promoting independence, and ensuring safety.

What are Direct Service Professionals?

Direct Service Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who provide support and assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs. They help clients with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management, while also encouraging independence and inclusion in the community. DSPs often work in group homes, day programs, or clients’ own homes, and play a vital role in improving the quality of life for those they serve.

What is the difference between Direct Service Professional vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Service ProfessionalPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires CPR, First Aid, and sometimes specialized trainingMay require basic certifications like CPR, First Aid, but less specialized training
Work EnvironmentCommunity settings, group homes, residential facilitiesPrivate homes, individual client settings
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, social services, non-profitsHome care agencies, private clients
Job FocusSupporting individuals with disabilities, mental health, or developmental needsAssisting with daily living activities for elderly or disabled clients

While both roles involve providing care and support, a Direct Service Professional typically works in community or facility settings with a focus on individuals with disabilities or mental health needs, often requiring specialized training. A Personal Care Assistant usually works in private homes, assisting with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and mobility, often with fewer certifications required.

What Is a Direct Support Professional Job Description?

A direct support professional works to assist people with disabilities. In this career, your job duties include helping people in a residential assisted living community; however, most direct support professionals work offsite in the homes or schools of support program participants. You need strong organizational and communication skills to deal with clients, their other caretakers, and their family members. Most employers expect you to document your experience with each client and note changes in behavior and progress toward developmental goals. Educational qualifications include a high school diploma and previous experience or on-the-job training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Service Professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Service Professional, you need a foundational understanding of client care, basic health and safety, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electronic documentation systems and CPR/First Aid certification are often required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are crucial soft skills for building trust with clients and supporting their daily needs. These abilities are essential for providing quality care, ensuring client well-being, and fostering a supportive environment.

What qualifications do I need for a DSP job?

To qualify for a Direct Service Professional (DSP) position, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require background checks and training in first aid or CPR. Some employers prefer previous experience working with individuals with disabilities and strong communication and interpersonal skills. Certification requirements vary by state or organization but are often provided during onboarding.
More about Direct Service Professional jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Service jobs? The most popular types of Direct Service jobs are:
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Direct Service Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,863 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Direct Service Professional

Direct Service Professional

DeKalb Community Service Board

Lithonia, GA • On-site

$15.36/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

About Claratel Behavioral Health
Claratel Behavioral Health is an innovative, community-based behavioral health and developmental disabilities services organization offering a full range of mental health, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorder services to underserved individuals. As a public, not-for-profit organization, Claratel Behavioral Health operates in more than 20 locations in DeKalb County, Georgia, with a diverse workforce of more than 400 direct-care and support staff.
If you are passionate about driving change in behavioral health and developmental services and are eager to work in an environment that values innovation and inclusivity, Claratel Behavioral Health is the place for you. Here, your work is impactful, your growth is prioritized, and your well-being is supported. Together, we can forge pathways to a healthier future for all.
Direct Service Professional
About Claratel Behavioral Health
Claratel Behavioral Health is an innovative, community-based behavioral health and developmental disabilities services organization offering a full range of mental health, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorder services to underserved individuals. As a public, not-for-profit organization, Claratel Behavioral Health operates in more than 20 locations in DeKalb County, Georgia, with a diverse workforce of more than 400 direct-care and support staff.
If you are passionate about driving change in behavioral health and developmental services and are eager to work in an environment that values innovation and inclusivity, Claratel Behavioral Health is the place for you. Here, your work is impactful, your growth is prioritized, and your well-being is supported. Together, we can forge pathways to a healthier future for all.
About The Role
As a Direct Service Professional, you'll provide support across home, work, and community settings, helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities build life skills, connect with others, and achieve their personal goals. Every day is an opportunity to make an impact.
Multiple Shifts Available:
  • Full-Time & Part-Time Openings.

Job Responsibilities
With care and commitment, our Direct Service Professionals turn everyday moments into meaningful experiences for residents. Claratel Behavioral Health will provide you with the training and resources to succeed in this role.
Empower daily living - Support with activities like cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, health maintenance, and self-administration of medication.
Foster independence - Teach and encourage social skills, community involvement, and problem-solving so individuals can thrive. Provide input and implement Individual Support Plans (ISP)/Behavior Support Plans (BSP) and strategies as instructed.
Ensure safety and well-being - Carefully follow care plans, medical instructions, and dietary needs. Report environmental risks or barriers and safeguard the individual and their possessions by following all policies and procedures.
Be a mentor and role model - Demonstrate positive behaviors, coach individuals through challenges, and support them in building meaningful relationships.
Prepare Documentation - Record progress, behavior support tracking, incident reports, and communication logs accurately and on time.
Provide Transportation - Transport individuals safely to appointments, activities, and events that enrich their lives.
Collaborate and grow - Work closely with teammates, supervisors, and families to ensure the best support, while continuing your own professional development.
Innovate - Actively participate in the agency's ongoing efforts to continually improve the quality of services provided and the effectiveness of the agency's operations by sharing ideas and insights.
Residential Setting Responsibilities
For positions within residential homes, you'll also:
  • Assist with daily household routines (laundry, meal planning, grocery shopping, chores).
  • Follow all medication administration procedures accurately (SSAM/Proxy Caregiver).
  • Maintain clear communication logs during shift transitions.

Candidate Qualifications
Essential
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid Georgia Driver's License with an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report (MVR).
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. unassisted and help individuals with mobility needs
  • Regular bending, squatting, standing, and moving throughout your shift
  • Strong communication skills, basic computer literacy, and the ability to manage conflict effectively.

Desired
  • 6+ months of experience working with individuals who have intellectual or developmental disabilities.
  • Familiarity with medication administration, behavioral support, or person-centered planning.

Compensation
  • $15.36 per hour

Benefits
In addition to competitive pay:
  • A generous paid time off plan (earn 20 days your first year)
  • 10 paid holidays
  • We offer our eligible employees an array of benefits that support their physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing.
  • Coverage options, provided through the state health and flexible benefit programs, include health, dental, vision, life, disability, and much more.
  • We also offer a fully employer-funded retirement plan and the option to make personal retirement contributions.
  • Our benefits are designed to help provide peace of mind and financial security for you and your family, ensuring you can focus on making a difference in the lives of others.

Pre-employment drug screening and successful completion of a criminal history background check is required.
Claratel Behavioral Health participates in E-Verify (Company ID: 226305)
Claratel Behavioral Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates who may require an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act or similar law to perform the essential functions of this job are encouraged to contact Human Resources at hrhelp@claratel.org.

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