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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

As a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and Home Services Provider (HSP), we offer safe and ... Role Description This is an in-home care role for Care Professionals including Direct Support ...

As a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and Home Services Provider (HSP), we offer safe and ... Role Description This is an in-home care role for Care Professionals including Direct Support ...

Direct Care Professional

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

As a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and Home Services Provider (HSP), we offer safe and ... role for Care Professionals including Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing ...

Overview We are seeking compassionate and skilled Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our ... Ongoing participation in in-service training is required. Required Skills & Attributes: * Ability ...

Manage and direct the Social Services Department, and identify and provide for residents social ... Free Employee Assistance Programs - professional support & guidance on family, money, health, legal ...

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Direct Service Professional information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$8

$16

$21

How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in Decatur, IL is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.93 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.

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in Decatur, IL 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 $33,816 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Direct Care Professional

Possability LLC

Decatur, IL

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Company Description

At PossAbility, LLC, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and fostering independence for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) as well as Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) in Illinois. Our mission to Engage, Empower, and Encourage guides our compassionate and effective care delivery. As a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and Home Services Provider (HSP), we offer safe and engaging support that builds confidence and security. Our holistic approach includes education, behavior training, and family and community integration, celebrating each individual's abilities while supporting them through challenges with dignity and respect.

Role Description

This is an in-home care role for Care Professionals including Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Home Care Aides (HCA) located in Illinois.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Applicants must be willing to travel to counties outside of the one they reside in.

The Care Professional will be responsible for providing daily, hands-on support to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and/or individuals with Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI). Tasks include assisting with daily living activities, including personal care, household management, and mobility assistance. This role also assists individuals with facilitating educational and recreational activities, providing transportation, and offering emotional and companionship support. The role requires working closely with individuals to engage them in community integration, behavior redirection, and personal development.

Qualifications

  • Experience in providing direct care and support to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) or Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
  • Skills in facilitating educational and recreational activities
  • Ability to assist with daily living activities, including meal preparation, hygiene, and mobility assistance
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Ability to provide emotional support and encouragement
  • Valid driver's license and ability to provide transportation
  • High school diploma or equivalent; further education and certifications in a related field
  • Current CPR/First Aid Certificate
  • Experience with behavior redirection and community integration is an asset
  • Compassionate, patient, and empathetic nature
  • Willingness to travel outside of the county you're currently residing in

This role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals requiring personalized care. We value dedicated care professionals committed to providing respectful, high-quality support tailored to each individual's unique needs.

Benefits:

  • Flexible schedule
  • Mileage reimbursement
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)
  • Direct Support Professional Certificate
  • CPR/First Aid Certificate

Experience:

  • Assisting with ADLs: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Community engagement: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Mobility assistance: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Working with people with developmental disabilities: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Companionship: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Household Management: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Home care: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Communication skills: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Care documentation: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Empathy: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Compassion: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Direct support: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Home & community care: 1 year (Preferred)