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

Petroleum Installer II

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With 33 offices and distribution centers and more than 1,400 field service professionals, OWL ... May direct, train and mentor junior Installers. Must have the ability to travel overnight over 50%

The Services Director directs laboratory Newborn Screening services, supervises scientific managers, professional/technical staff and administrative support positions. Job Responsibilities: This ...

Food Service - Huck's Food Service Lead

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conducts inventories as directed by management * Ensures all associates are properly recording all ... Opportunities for career advancement and professional development within a growing company.

Mental Health Unit Director (74618)

Lincoln, IL

$108K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... services to the Illinois Department of Corrections. We are currently seeking a Mental Health Unit ... direct supervision, and training to clinical and administrative staff and collaborating with a ...

Mental Health Unit Director (74618)

Lincoln, IL ยท On-site

$108K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... services to the Illinois Department of Corrections. We are currently seeking a Mental Health Unit ... direct supervision, and training to clinical and administrative staff and collaborating with a ...

Director, Laboratory

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$51.87 - $82.99/hr

Position Overview The Director of Laboratory plans, organizes, and directs the administrative and ... professional laboratory services provided within the department. * Provides support and ...

Showing results 41-60

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 19, 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.

Lead DSP / Residential Specialist - Decatur, IL

Developmental Foundations

Decatur, IL โ€ข On-site

$21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity to serve in our local community and help others? Developmental Foundations wants you to join us! Our family-owned company provides quality services for adults with developmental disabilities living in our CILA group-homes (Community Integrated Living Arrangements). In addition to providing direct care, the Lead DSP / Residential Specialist is responsible for administrative tasks, such as ordering supplies and groceries, as well as coordinating staff work schedules, including call-offs and covering shifts. If you have Direct Support Person (DSP) or CNA experience, this is a great advanced-level job for you!
What to expect:
  • Network of support from co-workers: trainers, nurses, supervisors and DSPs
  • A sense of belonging, connection and caring
  • Pay: $21.75/hourly

Benefits:
  • Great work team, in a neighborhood, home-like setting
  • Paid time off and paid vacation
  • BCBSIL Health and Dental benefits, including free Vision insurance
  • 401k with employer match
  • DSP work qualifies for CNA license renewal

Qualifications:
  • Patience, dedication and a passion for caring for others
  • Good decision-making skills
  • Solid attendance record
  • Computer skills and experience - Word, Excel, email
  • Strong communication in writing and in person

Requirements:
  • High School diploma/signed High School transcript including graduation date/G.E.D. - high school completion or equivalency
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Successfully complete and pass background check
  • Flexible availability is an essential requirement
  • One year as a successful DSP preferred, but not required

Responsibilities:
  • Orient and train new DSPs / Caregivers
  • Coordinate staff work schedules (4-6 employees)
  • Transport and attend medical appointments with individuals
  • Meal planning and grocery orders
  • Oversee household inventory
  • Be available and participate in on-call duties

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