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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Supports agency direction in promoting the community first for services needed. * Plan and ... May be responsible to drive or provide direct service while on buses. Performs related duties as ...

Direct Support Professional

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Looking for Direct Support Professionals The Direct Support Professional is responsible to provide direct services and supports to the individuals served as outlined in the ISP including, but not ...

Direct Support Professional

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Looking for Direct Support Professionals The Direct Support Professional is responsible to provide direct services and supports to the individuals served as outlined in the ISP including, but not ...

DSP

Athens, OH ยท On-site

$15/hr

Direct Service Professionals (DSP) * Schedule: Evenings and Weekends Shifts available. ( Paid sleep shifts also available at a blended rate.) * Compensation Range: hourly: $15.00 /hour, plus benefits ...

DSP

Athens, OH ยท On-site

$15/hr

Direct Service Professionals (DSP) * Schedule: Evenings and Weekends Shifts available. ( Paid sleep shifts also available at a blended rate.) * Compensation Range: hourly: $15.00 /hour, plus benefits ...

DSP

Marietta, OH ยท On-site

$15/hr

Direct Service Professionals (DSP) * Schedule: Evenings and Weekends- evening or day shift (If available). ( Paid sleep shifts also available at a blended rate.) * Compensation Range: hourly: $15.00 ...

Direct Service Professionals (DSP) * Schedule: Evenings and Weekends- evening or day shift (If available). ( Paid sleep shifts also available at a blended rate.) * Compensation Range: hourly: $15.00 ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Service Professional information

See Ohio salary details

$7

$15

$20

How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in Ohio is $15.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.60 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 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 service professional?

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.

Is a direct service professional a good career?

A direct service professional (DSP) provides support to individuals with disabilities or mental health needs, often working in community or residential settings. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others, with opportunities for certification, skill development, and flexible schedules, though it may involve physically and emotionally demanding work. Job satisfaction often depends on personal interests and the work environment.

What qualifications do I need for a direct service professional job?

A direct service professional typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and may require CPR and first aid certifications. Relevant skills include strong communication, patience, and the ability to work with diverse populations; some positions may also require background checks and training specific to the client population.
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,144 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - DAY PROGRAM

Scioto Trails - Advancing Abilities

Piketon, OH โ€ข On-site

$16.05 - $20.61/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 hours ago

Posted today


Job description

Do you want to make a DIFFERENCE in someone's life? Become a Direct Support Professional!!Advancing Abilities Day Program is located Piketon, Ohio.1 FULL-TIME DAY POSITION OPEN! (Mon-Fri 8am-4pm)1 FULL-TIME EVENING POSITION OPEN! (Mon-Fri 1pm-9pm)Wage Scale: $16.05/hour-$20.61/hour (Based on previous experience in the field of developmental disabilities)Paid Training!!Must Possess all of the Following:A sincere desire to provide direct service and support to persons with developmental/intellectual disables; ability to make sound judgments when given guidance and priorities; ability to work as a team member to maintain consistency and quality in services; ability to exchange support, constructive criticism, and ideas with other staff members.Direct Support Professionals are responsible to provide direct services and supports to the individual with developmental/intellectual disabilities, including, but not limited to: assisting in maintaining a clean, safe living environment, personal hygiene, meal preparation and completion of various workshop tasks; and supervising, teaching, and assisting the individual in every aspect of their life, with the goals of fostering increased independence, choice and empowerment. Think of a DSP as everything you do in your life - this career is helping another person do that exact thing!Minimum Requirements:High School Diploma/GED, minimum 21 year of age, valid driver's license, personal liability insurance, good driving record, and a clear background check.Please go to http://sciototrails.mitcawm.com/ to apply!