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Direct Service Provider Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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7th Grade Math Instructor

Memphis, TN · On-site

The Classroom Instructor has the primary responsibility for providing direct service to students, consulting with other professionals, and consulting and discussing issues with parents. The teacher ...

Elevare Branding

Customer Service Agent

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

You will provide customers with accurate information and take detailed and timely records of ... Discreetly check vehicle for damage on incoming vehicles and direct customer to counter for ...

SST Direct

CDL A Route Delivery Driver

Memphis, TN · On-site

DIRECT HIRE: A fantastic opportunity for an experienced CDL A Route Delivery Driver to join a ... Perform equipment moves to service provider for repairs and service as needed Skills/Requirements ...

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Direct Service Provider information

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How much do direct service provider jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service provider in Tennessee is $14.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct service provider?

Direct Service Providers (DSPs) are professionals who offer hands-on support and assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs. Their work often includes helping clients with daily living activities, personal care, transportation, and participation in community activities. DSPs play a crucial role in promoting independence, empowerment, and quality of life for the people they serve. They may work in residential homes, day programs, or clients' personal residences, ensuring that each individual receives the care and support they need.

What are some common challenges direct service providers face when supporting clients, and how can these be managed?

Direct Service Providers often encounter challenges such as managing clients with diverse and complex needs, navigating emotional situations, and balancing administrative tasks with direct care. These challenges can be managed by leaning on strong communication skills, seeking regular supervision or peer support, and utilizing ongoing training opportunities to stay informed about best practices. Building trust and maintaining professional boundaries with clients are also crucial for success and personal well-being in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct service provider, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Service Provider, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving skills, and knowledge of safety and health protocols. Familiarity with client documentation systems, first aid/CPR certification, and assistive technology is often required. Patience, strong interpersonal communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for building trust and supporting clients effectively. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensuring client well-being, safety, and the delivery of high-quality, person-centered care.

What is the difference between Direct Service Provider vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Service ProviderPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsVaries; often includes training or certification depending on stateOften requires certification or training, such as CPR or first aid
Work EnvironmentCommunity settings, clients' homes, healthcare facilitiesPrimarily in clients' homes or healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageHome care agencies, healthcare providers, community organizationsHome health agencies, private clients, healthcare facilities
Job FocusProviding a range of support services including personal care, companionship, and assistance with daily activitiesAssisting with personal care, mobility, and daily living tasks

Both roles involve supporting individuals with daily needs, but a Direct Service Provider often has a broader scope of services and may work in various settings, while a Personal Care Assistant typically focuses on personal care tasks primarily in home environments.

Is a degree needed to be a direct service provider?

A degree is not typically required to become a direct service provider, but relevant certifications, training, and experience are often necessary depending on the specific role and setting. Many positions prioritize skills, compassion, and knowledge of the population served over formal education levels.

Is a direct service provider a good career?

A direct service provider is a role that involves assisting individuals with daily needs, often in healthcare, social services, or community programs. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others, with opportunities for certification, skill development, and job stability, though it may also involve physically and emotionally demanding work. Overall, it is considered a stable and meaningful career path for those committed to service work.
More about Direct Service Provider jobs
Direct Service Provider jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Provider job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,846 per year, or $14.3 per hour.

TCSEPP Manager: Social Work Research & Public Service - UTK

The University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Implement, manage, monitor, and evaluate the TCSEPP in assigned Judicial Districts.

  • Coach and provide supervisory oversight for the TCSEPP Coordinators.

  • Conduct outreach to build collaborative relationships with child support offices and community partners.

Job description

Within SWORPS, the Tennessee Child Support Employment and Parenting Program (TCSEPP) Manager builds a strong evidence-informed and trauma-informed practice that assists, supports, and advocates for non-custodial parents involved with the child support system. The Manager will report to the Regional Manager and work to build, in keeping with the TCSEPP Practice Model and Practice Guide, a strong evidence-informed and trauma-informed practice that assists, supports, and advocates for non-custodial parents involved with the child support system. The Manager will function with a high degree of independence and will be responsible for implementing, managing, monitoring, and evaluating TCSEPP in their assigned Judicial Districts in one of three regions (East, Middle, or West Tennessee).   The Manager will be responsible for coaching and providing supervisory oversight for the TCSEPP Coordinators in the assigned Judicial Districts. The Manager will conduct outreach in their assigned Judicial Districts to build strong collaborative relationships with child support offices and with public and private community partners.

This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon the continued funding of the grant. 

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. 

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.  

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone. 

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.  

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community! 

Required Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor's degree
  • Experience: 
    • Three years of experience with direct service/case management and 2 years' experience with program planning, coordination, and supervision.  
    • One year employee management and/or coaching experience.  
    • In lieu of a bachelor's degree, three additional years of experience in any of these areas can be substituted.
  • Must have valid driver's license, automobile at their disposal and a current automobile liability policy with continuous coverage.
  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: 
    • Supervisory skill; strong written and oral communication skills, presentation skills.
    • Analytical and evaluative skill; effective time management.
    • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, data management, and email/Internet systems. 
    • Leadership skills including ability to motivate others, strong interpersonal skills, excellent problem identification and resolution skills, and conflict management skills.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Education: Master's Degree (3 years additional experience will be considered in lieu of a degree)
  • Experience:   
    • Five years of experience with direct service program planning, coordination, and supervision. 
    • Three years of employee management and/or coaching experience. 
    • Experience with child support systems and programs.
  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: 
    • Knowledge of the TN Child Support program; Knowledge of the TCSEPP Practice Model and Practice Guide.
    • Skill with Tennessee child support system software.
    • Knowledge of Tennessee judicial districts and court systems.
    • Ability to work with participants in a field work setting.

Work Location 

  • This position is remote but requires travel throughout Shelby County, TN (and occasional travel outside this area on a limited basis).  Applicants must live within two hours of Shelby County, TN.

Compensation and Benefits 

  • UT market range: 11
  • Anticipated hiring range: $61k
  • Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions 

Applications will be reviewed as received and interviews can begin as soon as 7 days from posting.

Interested individuals should provide the following:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

About The College/Department/Division 

 The Social Work Office of Research and Public Service (SWORPS) is an applied research center of the University of Tennessee College of Social Work (CSW).  We are a dynamic and close-knit interdisciplinary team of individuals with a shared vision of thriving communities with equitable outcomes for all. We do that by building partnerships that leverage research, technology, and human connection to improve lives in Tennessee and beyond.

Over the past fifty years, SWORPS has worked with local nonprofits such as the United Way of Greater Knoxville, University of Tennessee departments and faculty researchers, state agencies such as the Tennessee Department of Human Services, and federal agencies like the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Our annual portfolio consists of 25-40 sponsored projects spanning a wealth of different content areas, but one common thread -each project contributes one more building block for thriving communities with equitable outcomes for all.

Learn more about SWORPS and some of our programs and resources by visiting our webpage: https://www.sworps.tennessee.edu/ 

The TCSEPP Managerresponsibilities willinclude, but are not limited to: 

  • Manage the work of TCSEPP Coordinators within their multi-county Judicial Districts
  • Share responsibility for interviewing, hiring, and training employees
  • Provide leadership, guidance, and coaching to Coordinators in keeping with the TCSEPP Practice Model and Practice Guide
  • Evaluate Coordinator performance in keeping with the TCSEPP Practice Model and Practice Guide
  • Monitor and verify work prepared by Coordinators for accuracy, completeness and timeliness
  • Assist Coordinators with analyzing/resolving issues with participants with whom they work
  • Plan and facilitate Coordinator meetings and development sessions
  • Prepare performance evaluations and maintain records of issues and performance
  • Collaborate and coordinate with Child Support Partners, Attorneys and Court Magistrates to promote TCSEPP, resolve program concerns, and assure continued referrals
  • Meet with different community agencies to educate, review program services, and build relationships as needed
  • Participate in community collaborative efforts and coalitions
  • Assist with developing program materials and outreach materials, updating regularly to ensure accuracy
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing activities and prepare and conduct presentations to the community and at regional and national conferences
  • Provide quality assurance oversight to ensure all data collection requirements are complete and accurate
  • Coordinate with evaluator to provide necessary information for reports to funder that captures impacts with non-custodial parents, families and community agencies
  • Monitor referrals and adjust program caseloads of Coordinators to ensure quality program delivery
  • Review program services and outreach services to ensure the highest level of quality and efficiency
  • Oversee and review Coordinator program and fiscal documentation and processes

Apply