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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Appleton, WI

Aptive Environmental

Operations Manager

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... direct all hiring activities to ensure proper staffing for the service center while having constant communication with the recruiting lead • Manages payroll for all Service Professionals, Lead ...

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All JobsDirect Service Professional JobsDirect Service Professional Jobs in Appleton, WI

Direct Service Professional information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$8

$16

$21

How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in Appleton, WI is $16.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $18.03 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.
More about Direct Service Professional jobs
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:
Direct Service Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,001 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Support Professional

Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper MI

Forest Junction, WI • On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Adult Residential Support Professional – 3rd Shift

Location: Grandstone/Eastwood Facility, Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper MI. Staff will be assigned a primary home base, but they will work at both sites as needed. The program operates across two locations that are only eight minutes apart.

Schedule: Full-Time | 3rd Shift | 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM | 40 Hours/Week

Are you passionate about supporting individuals on their mental health and recovery journey? Do you thrive in a team environment where compassion and advocacy make a real difference? Join Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper MI (LSS) as an Adult Residential Support Professional at Grandstone/Eastwood!

About Grandstone/Eastwood

Grandstone/Eastwood are 8-bed residential facilities offering 24-hour supervision for adults facing mental health and/or addiction challenges. We provide crisis support through educational groups, transportation, medication management, and assistance with daily living skills—all in a safe, recovery-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • De-escalate crisis situations using non-restrictive techniques

  • Support clients in group living, home, or community settings

  • Maintain confidential records and track client progress

  • Facilitate recovery-focused group activities and curriculum

  • Transport clients to appointments and community services

  • Assist with medication administration and basic healthcare needs

  • Promote independence through skill-building and resource connection

  • Participate in staff meetings, training, and community advocacy

  • Support clients during recreational and educational activities

  • Uphold healthy boundaries and safety-focused decision-making

  • Perform household duties such as grocery shopping and light cleaning

Perks & Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)

  • Free CCS Training

  • Mileage Reimbursement

  • Paid Time Off + 10 Paid Holidays

  • 403B Retirement Contribution Option

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Service Awards & Recognition

  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligibility

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED required

  • Preferred: Experience in crisis/mental health or college credits in social work, psychology, or human services

  • Valid driver's license preferred

  • Reliable transportation required

  • Must pass background, caregiver, and medical checks

LSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

What Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan employees say

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