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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Lead Direct Support Professional

Watertown, WI ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Provide leadership and supervision to staff in the residence and community while providing direct services to individuals we serve. * Attend training for individuals served to assure their objectives ...

Direct Support Professional

Fort Atkinson, WI ยท On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

The Direct Support Professional is responsible for assisting with the development of a meaningful ... Direct Support โ€ข Adhere to schedule of assigned service. โ€ข Provide a safe and clean environment ...

Overview We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join ... Prader-Willi Homes , a MyPath Company, has been a trusted provider of residential services for ...

Direct Support Professional

Jefferson, WI ยท On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Direct Support Professional

Watertown, WI ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Direct Support Professional

Jefferson, WI ยท On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Direct Support Professional

Johnson Creek, WI ยท On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

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Showing results 1-20

Direct Service Professional information

See Madison, WI salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in Madison, WI is $16.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $18.65 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 are the most commonly searched types of Direct Service jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Direct Service jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $35,134 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Direct Service Provider - Community Activities

Northwoods Inc of Wisconsin

Portage, WI โ€ข On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position
Direct Service Provider - Community Activities
Description
Direct Support Professional for Community Activities
Flexible, part-time shifts (up to 29 hours per week).
NO HOLIDAYS!!!
Provide care and assist individuals with diverse abilities!!
You will help them learn new tasks; increase independence; and/or, enjoy social activities in their:
  • Job
  • Home
  • Community

$16.50/ hour
Paid training provided
Part-time benefits for employees working over 20 hours per week:
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401 K

Northwoods Inc. is a Not-For-Profit Community Rehabilitation Program, which assists people with diverse abilities, families in crisis, and senior citizens.
The Main Northwoods Office is located at: N6510 US 51 / Portage, Wisconsin 53901.
Northwoods is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Position Requirements
  • Valid Driver's license
  • Clean driving record
  • Have personal vehicle and insurance
  • Able to pass criminal and caregiver background check

Rate of pay
$16.50
Shift
Various Shifts
Full-Time/Part-Time
Part-Time
Location
Northwoods Inc of Wisconsin
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt
About the Organization
Northwoods Incorporated of Wisconsin Mission Statement:
Empowering families, seniors, and individuals with diverse abilities to advocate for choice, inspire change, maximize independence, and achieve personal success.
EOE Statement
Northwoods Inc. of Wisconsin is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, color, sex, religion, creed, national origin, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic background, or disability.
This position is currently accepting applications.