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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Gossett Motors

Automotive Service Director

Memphis, TN · On-site

Service Director For Multi-Line Dealership A large Dealer Group in the Memphis market is seeking a talented Service Professional with the ambition and aptitude to become part of our group. We are ...

Gossett Motors

Automotive Service Director

Memphis, TN · On-site

Service Director For Multi-Line Dealership A large Dealer Group in the Memphis market is seeking a talented Service Professional with the ambition and aptitude to become part of our group. We are ...

Gossett Motors

Automotive Service Director

Memphis, TN · On-site

Service Director For Multi-Line Dealership A large Dealer Group in the Memphis market is seeking a talented Service Professional with the ambition and aptitude to become part of our group. We are ...

Sunshine Services

Direct Support Professional

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15.68 - $16/hr

... Services activities as requested by the Residential Director and/or the Leisure Services Director. Responsibilities include promoting the goals of the leisure program such as independence, decision ...

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All JobsDirect Service Professional JobsDirect Service Professional Jobs in Tennessee

Direct Service Professional information

See Tennessee salary details

$7

$15

$19

How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in Tennessee is $15.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 advancement, though it may involve physically demanding work and variable schedules.
More about Direct Service Professional jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Service jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Direct Service jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:

Direct Service Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,642 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Youth Direct Service Provider

Murfreesboro, TN • On-site

Our Journey Foundation Inc
See more jobs at Our Journey Foundation Incexternal

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance

Youth Direct Service Provider 

Is a professional who provides direct support and service to young people, typically in programs focused on education, mental health, social services, or community outreach. The role involves working with youth to guide and assist them in overcoming challenges and achieving personal growth.

Job Summary: Youth Direct Service Worker provides direct support to youth by facilitating individual and groups activities, offering counseling, guidance, and building, positive relationships. The worker will assist in promoting the emotional, physical, and social development of youth in various settings, such as residential programs, schools, community organization, or recreational centers.
Key Responsibilities:

• Adheres to licensing requirements and successfully pass all inspections of the home.
• Assists with intake process.
• Assists in developing and carrying out of the child’s treatment plan.
• Completes incident reports in an accurate and in a timely manner.
• Safely transports children to various locations.
• Plans, attends, and transports children to recreational activities.
• Maintains cleanliness of the house, premises, and vehicle.
• Cook/Prepare food that is on the menu.
• Conducts monthly fire drills.
• Utilizes the point system and submits point sheet to supervisor weekly.
• Maintains client confidentiality.
• Helps with homework, study time, and general life skills.
• Completes additional duties assigned by the manager.
• Youth Support: Provide guidance, mentoring, and counseling to youth, helping them address emotional, behavioral, and social challenges.
• Case Management: Assist in creating individual plans for young people, tracking progress, and ensuring their needs are met (educational, behavioral, or developmental).
• Crisis Intervention: Respond to and manage crisis situations, providing immediate support and stabilization for youth in distress.
• Program Facilitation: Lead or support activities, workshops, or events to promote skill building, teamwork, and personal development among youth.
• Collaboration: Work with other team members, social workers, educators, and families to ensure consistent support and progress for each youth.
• Record Keeping: Maintain detailed, confidential records of interactions, interventions, and progress for each youth, following all legal and ethical guidelines.
• Advocacy: Advocate for the needs and rights of youth within the community and work to ensure they have access to resources and opportunities.
• Safety and Supervision: Ensure the safety and well-being of all youth in your care, monitoring their behavior and providing a safe, structured environment.
Qualifications: 

• Education:

-High school diploma required; some positions may require a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, education, or a related field.
• Experience: Experience working with youth in a group setting, such as in schools, camps, or community programs, is often required.
• Skills:

-Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in teams and independently.
- Patience, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude.
- Crisis management and conflict resolution abilities.
• Certification:

-First Aid and CPR certification.
- 21 hours Pre-Service training
This position requires a combination of emotional resilience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to foster positive relationships with youth.