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

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 ...

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for ... Direct Support Professional Day Program Open Interview Events When: Every Other Tuesday: 09.01.26 ...

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Minimum one year of experience working in the human service field if required by work location ... Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any ...

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Minimum one year of experience working in the human service field if required by work location ... Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any ...

FCS Unit Supervisor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$31.75 - $41.50/hr

Supervise and support a team of Family Centered Services professionals * Coach staff in evidence ... Master's degree in a related field plus two years of direct service and/or supervisory experience

Direct Support Professional - PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Direct Support Professionals work with supervisors, therapists, nursing staff, and families in ... With a coordinated approach to care delivery, services are interwoven and streamlined, so families ...

Join ChildServe as a Direct Support Professional, in this role you will be responsible for ... With a coordinated approach to care delivery, services are interwoven and streamlined, so families ...

Direct Support Professional - PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Join ChildServe as a Direct Support Professional , in this role you will be responsible for ... With a coordinated approach to care delivery, services are interwoven and streamlined, so families ...

Direct Support Professional - PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Join ChildServe as a Direct Support Professional, in this role you will be responsible for ... With a coordinated approach to care delivery, services are interwoven and streamlined, so families ...

Showing results 21-40

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 25, 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.

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

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

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

Des Moines, IA • On-site


Sevita
Nursing and Residential Care Facilities • 10K+ employees

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 285 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

791st of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Paid breaks


$15.25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

REM Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here we believe every person has the right to live well, and everyone deserves to have a fulfilling career. You’ll join a mission-driven team and create relationships that motivate us all every day. Join us today, and experience a career well lived. 


Direct Support Professional 

Open Interview Events 
When:  Every Other Tuesday:  08.21.26
Time:  9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Where: 6955 Vista Drive, West Des Moines, IA 50266

Starting Pay: $15.25/hour | Part-Time | On-Demand Pay 

What You'll Do

  • Empower individuals to achieve their personal and developmental goals, from budgeting and nutrition to community involvement and recreation.
  • Build meaningful connections—become a trusted mentor, advocate, and friend to those you support.
  • Take initiative and make a difference every day, with the trust and support of leaders who value your ideas.
  • Champion inclusion: Help people access their communities, attend events, and pursue their favorite activities.
  • Support daily living: Assist with meal prep, medication, Personal care, and outings—helping participants enjoy life to the fullest.
  • Show your community compassion and Patience: In addition to assisting in general
  • Daily Living Skills, some of our exceptional individuals will also need help with personal hygiene. Some individuals may also have behavioral challenges and other complex needs.

Why Thrive with Sevita

  • On-Demand Pay/Daily Pay: No need to wait—get your wages as you earn them!!!
  • Pay Rate:  $15.25/hr
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Full medical, dental, vision, PTO, holiday pay, and 401(k) with company match for full-time (32+ hours/week)
  • Growth Opportunities: Build your leadership skills with training, mentorship, and nationwide career paths
  • Recognition & Rewards: Referral bonuses and a supportive team that celebrates your contributions

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Education: Must have a High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Vehicle:  Must have access to a registered vehicle with you during all shifts to transport individuals
  • Auto Insurance: Must be able to provide proof of insurance
  • Driver's License: Must have a Valid Driver's license for at least one year without restrictions. We cannot accept a learner's permit or an intermediate license
  • Successful clearance of background checks
  • A reliable, responsible attitude
  • A patient and kind approach with our individuals
  • A compassionate approach and a commitment to quality in everything you do

Ready to make a real difference? Apply today and discover a career, well lived, at Sevita!


Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care. We believe that everyone deserves to live a full, more independent life. We provide people with quality services and individualized supports that lead to growth and independence, regardless of the physical, intellectual, or behavioral challenges they face.
We’ve made this our mission for more than 50 years. And today, our 40,000 team members continue to innovate and enhance care for the 50,000 individuals we serve all over the U.S.
 

As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law. 


Sevita logo

About Sevita

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care. We believe that everyone deserves to live a full, more independent life. We provide people with quality services and individualized support that leads to growth and independence, regardless of the physical, intellectual, or behavioral challenges they face. We've made this our mission for more than 50 years. And today, our 40,000 team members continue to innovate and enhance care for the 50,000 individuals we serve. We're an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care, similar companies include Brookedale Senior Living, A New Hope, and North Star.

Industry

Nursing and residential care facilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1980

Social media


What Sevita Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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