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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Appleton, WI

Lutheran Social Services

Support Professional

Appleton, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Lutheran Social Services (LSS) is a private, non-profit, human service agency providing a variety ... Description Adult Residential Support Professional - 3rd Shift Location: Grandstone/Eastwood ...

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Direct Service Professional information

See Appleton, WI salary details

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How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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 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.
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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 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,017 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Support Professional

Lutheran Social Services

Appleton, WI • On-site

$19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 hours ago

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).

    Apply