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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Waukee, IA (NOW HIRING)

State of Iowa

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$40K - $58K/yr

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of State-Operated Specialty Care, is currently seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join the dedicated team at Woodward ...

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$17/hr

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Join Sevita as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals live their best lives-while ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Boone, IA · On-site

$17/hr

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Join Sevita as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals live their best lives ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.25/hr

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Direct Support Professional Open Interview Events When: Every Other Tuesday: 08.04.26, 08.21.26 ...

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$17/hr

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Join Sevita as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals live their best lives-while ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.25/hr

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Direct Support Professional Open Interview Events When: 09.01.26 Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Where ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.25/hr

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Direct Support Professional Open Interview Events When: Every Other Tuesday: 08.04.26, 08.21.26 ...

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$17/hr

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Join Sevita as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals live their best lives-while ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Boone, IA · On-site

$17/hr

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Join Sevita as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals live their best lives ...

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.25/hr

REM Community Services , a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Direct Support Professional Open Interview Events When: Every Other Tuesday: 08.21.26 Time: 9:00 am ...

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All JobsDirect Service Professional JobsDirect Service Professional Jobs in Waukee, IA

Direct Service Professional information

See Waukee, IA salary details

$8

$16

$20

How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in Waukee, IA is $16.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $17.74 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.
More about Direct Service Professional jobs

What cities near Waukee, IA are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs?

Cities near Waukee, IA with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:

Direct Service Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in Waukee, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,434 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Link Associates

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Link Associates – Des Moines, West Des Moines & Surrounding Communities

APPLY ONLINE AT WWW.LINKASSOCIATES.ORG/APPLY

Link Associates is a nonprofit organization providing community-based services and supports to adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). We are currently seeking compassionate and dependable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team in Des Moines, West Des Moines, and surrounding communities.
The ideal candidate will have experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities such as Autism, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy. However, Link Associates also offers an outstanding paid training program for individuals who are beginning a new career in human services.
As a DSP at Link Associates, you will:
  • Encourage individuals to achieve their personal goals and live as independently as possible.
  • Assist with daily living skills such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, and household chores.
  • Support individuals who require assistance with personal care, including bathing, toileting, and feeding.
  • Provide support for individuals with behavioral challenges through identifying triggers and using de-escalation and coping strategies.
  • Assist individuals in participating in community activities, events, and Link therapeutic recreation programs.
Link Associates has opportunities available in both our:
  • Day Habilitation / Day Program Department.
  • Residential Department.
Benefits & Perks:
  • Health Insurance.
  • Dental Insurance.
  • Vision Insurance.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO).
  • Extended Leave Time (ELT).
  • Paid Holidays.
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan.
  • Life Insurance.
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Paid Classroom Training.
  • Paid On-the-Job Training.
  • Flexible Schedules.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities.
  • Daily Pay Option.
  • Casual Dress Attire.
Requirements & Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred for most positions. (Required for Day Program positions.)
  • Acceptable background and criminal history checks.
  • Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
  • Proof of current auto insurance.
  • Safe and reliable personal vehicle capable of transporting up to four adults. (Required for Residential positions.)

Expectations:
  • Ability to complete accurate and timely electronic documentation.
  • Ability to drive throughout Polk and Dallas Counties.
  • Good attendance and punctuality.
Ready to Join Team Link and Make a Difference?

Apply today at:
www.linkassociates.org/apply