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Direct Support Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Sheldon

Sheldon, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... the person being supported. * Assist individuals in arranging necessary appointments and ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Sheldon

Sheldon, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... the person being supported. * Assist individuals in arranging necessary appointments and ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Full-Time Keokuk, IA | $16.00/hour | On Demand Pay Build a ... care, CNA work, behavioral health, or human services is helpful but not required. We provide ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Spencer

Spencer, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... Physical strength to assist individuals in transferring as per Hope Haven policy. * Physical ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - LeMars

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... Physical strength to assist individuals in transferring as per Hope Haven policy. * Physical ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Full-Time Keokuk, IA | $16.00/hour | On Demand Pay Build a ... care, CNA work, behavioral health, or human services is helpful but not required. We provide ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Algona

Algona, IA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... Physical strength to assist individuals in transferring as per Hope Haven policy. * Physical ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Spencer

Spencer, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... Physical strength to assist individuals in transferring as per Hope Haven policy. * Physical ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - LeMars

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... Physical strength to assist individuals in transferring as per Hope Haven policy. * Physical ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Sibley

Sibley, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... Physical strength to assist individuals in transferring as per Hope Haven policy. * Physical ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Full-Time Join us for OPEN INTERVIEWS! When: Every Tuesday from ... care, CNA work, behavioral health, or human services is helpful but not required. We provide ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Spencer

Spencer, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which ... Physical strength to assist individuals in transferring as per Hope Haven policy. * Physical ...

Showing results 41-60

Direct Support Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$17

$24

How much do direct support assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support assistant in Iowa is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support assistant?

Direct Support Assistants (DSAs) are professionals who provide care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities or other special needs. Their responsibilities include assisting with daily living activities, facilitating community involvement, and ensuring the health and safety of those they support. DSAs work in various settings such as group homes, day programs, or residential facilities, helping individuals achieve greater independence and quality of life. They also monitor progress, document services provided, and may assist with medication and personal care tasks.

What are some common challenges direct support assistants face when supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, and how can these be managed?

Direct Support Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral outbursts, balancing multiple care needs, and ensuring effective communication with both clients and their families. These situations require patience, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills. Building rapport, utilizing de-escalation techniques, and staying informed about each individual's care plan can help manage these challenges. Regular team meetings and ongoing training also provide valuable support in navigating the complexities of the role.

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

To excel as a Direct Support Assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and an understanding of developmental disabilities. Familiarity with care documentation systems, health and safety protocols, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification are commonly required. Patience, strong communication, and compassion are vital soft skills for supporting individuals' unique needs and fostering trust. These abilities ensure quality care, promote client independence, and create a safe, supportive environment.

What is the difference between Direct Support Assistant vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support AssistantPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized trainingCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized training
Work EnvironmentAssists individuals with disabilities in various settings, including homes and community centersProvides personal care mainly in private homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, healthcare, social servicesHome healthcare agencies, private clients
Job FocusSupporting daily activities, promoting independenceAssisting with personal hygiene, mobility, and daily routines

Both roles involve providing care and support, often requiring similar certifications. However, Direct Support Assistants typically work in community or facility settings supporting individuals with disabilities, while Personal Care Assistants mainly assist clients in personal hygiene and daily tasks within private homes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit for their skills and career goals.

How do you become a certified direct support assistant?

To become a certified direct support assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete relevant training programs that cover topics like person-centered planning and health and safety. Certification requirements vary by state or employer but often include passing a competency exam and maintaining ongoing training or continuing education. Some positions may also require background checks and CPR certification.

Is being a direct support assistant a stressful job?

Being a direct support assistant can be stressful due to the emotional and physical demands of helping individuals with disabilities or special needs. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle unpredictable situations, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find the role rewarding and manageable with proper training and support.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Direct Support Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Direct Support Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,322 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Ottumwa, IA • On-site

American Baptist Homes of the Midwest
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist residents with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and meal preparation

  • Provide compassionate support to encourage residents' independence and report changes in their health or behavior

  • Assist with transportation to appointments, community outings, and recreational activities


Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) | Part-Time or PRN | $17.00/hr + Sign-On Bonus! | Faith-Based Nonprofit

Looking for a career where your compassion truly makes a difference?

Join Crest Services as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, and traumatic brain injuries live meaningful, independent lives while building rewarding relationships every day.

For more than 50 years, Crest Services has been a faith-based, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care in welcoming group home settings throughout Minnesota and Iowa. Our team is known for its supportive culture, meaningful work, and commitment to helping both residents and employees thrive. In our most recent employee engagement survey, team members rated Crest Services as highly engaged, with the majority saying it's a great place to work.

If you're compassionate, dependable, and looking for a workplace where you'll feel valued every day, we'd love to meet you.

Why You'll Love Working at Crest Services
  • Competitive starting pay of $17.00 per hour
  • Sign-on bonus!
  • Part-time opportunity
  • Consistent scheduling with weekday evening or overnight shifts:
    • Monday-Friday: 3:00 PM-11:00 PM or 11:00 PM-7:30 AM
    • Saturday & Sunday: 6:30 AM-6:30 PM or 6:30 PM-6:30 AM
  • Supportive, team-focused culture where employees genuinely enjoy coming to work
  • Paid training—no healthcare experience required
  • Double-time pay for all hours worked on company-recognized holidays
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Hear back within 48 hours of applying
What You'll Do

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll build meaningful relationships while helping residents live safely, comfortably, and independently.

Responsibilities include:

  • Assist with daily living activities including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and meal preparation
  • Provide compassionate support while encouraging independence
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming home environment
  • Observe and report changes in residents' health or behavior
  • Assist with transportation to appointments, community outings, and recreational activities
  • Work collaboratively with healthcare professionals and fellow team members to provide quality, person-centered care
Qualifications
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English
  • Previous caregiving, healthcare, DSP, CNA, PCA, home health, or medical experience is preferred but not required—we provide paid training
  • Compassionate, dependable, patient, and detail-oriented
Benefits

Eligible employees enjoy access to:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with discretionary employer match
  • Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Immediate Wage Access
Join a Team That Feels Like Family

At Crest Services, we believe our employees are our greatest asset. We foster a positive, supportive workplace where teamwork, respect, and compassion come first. Whether you're beginning your career in healthcare or bringing years of experience, you'll have the opportunity to grow while making a lasting impact on the lives of others every day.

Apply today—we're excited to meet you and typically respond within 48 hours!
#abhm

To apply, please complete the required questionnaire. We accept applications on a rolling basis.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related conditions), political affiliation, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require accommodations during the interview process, please let us know. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants.

Applicants may be subject to a background check. Employees in this position must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the position. If requested, this organization will make every effort to provide reasonable accommodations to enable employees with disabilities to perform the position’s essential job duties. As markets change and the Organization grows, job descriptions may change over time as requirements and employee skill levels evolve. With this understanding, this organization retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

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