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Direct Support Care Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Cornerstone AFC

Direct Support Manager

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$18.90/hr

We are seeking a Direct Support Professional Leader to join our team in providing essential community living supports and personal care based on individualized service plans. This role is vital in ...

Cornerstone AFC

Direct Support Manager

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

We are seeking a Direct Support Professional Leader to join our team in providing essential community living supports and personal care based on individualized service plans. This role is vital in ...

Cornerstone AFC

Direct Support Manager

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$18.90/hr

We are seeking a Direct Support Professional Leader to join our team in providing essential community living supports and personal care based on individualized service plans. This role is vital in ...

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How much do direct support care jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support care in Michigan is $14.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support care professional?

Direct support care professionals, often known as direct support professionals (DSPs), are individuals who assist people with disabilities or special needs in their daily activities. They help clients with tasks such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and participating in community activities. Their goal is to support individuals in leading more independent and fulfilling lives while ensuring their safety and well-being. DSPs work in various settings, including private homes, group homes, and day programs.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a direct support care professional?

To thrive as a Direct Support Care professional, you need a background in human services or a related field, with basic knowledge of caregiving practices and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation systems, medication management protocols, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Patience, empathy, strong communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for building trust and supporting individuals with disabilities or special needs. These skills ensure clients receive compassionate, effective assistance and help maintain a safe, supportive environment.

What are common challenges faced in a direct support care role, and how can they be managed?

Direct Support Care professionals often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable client behaviors, balancing multiple clients’ needs, and coping with emotional stress from supporting individuals with disabilities or special needs. These challenges can be managed by receiving ongoing training, utilizing strong communication skills, seeking support from team members, and practicing self-care. Many organizations also provide supervision and regular debriefings to help staff process difficult situations and maintain a supportive work environment.

Where do direct support care professionals get paid the most?

Direct support care professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with higher minimum wages. States or cities that prioritize healthcare funding and have a shortage of qualified workers often offer higher pay rates for these roles.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Care jobs in Michigan?

For Direct Support Care jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Care jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Care jobs in Michigan are:

Direct Support Care jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Care job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,522 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Beacon Specialized Living

Saginaw, MI • On-site

$17.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and mental health challenges by encouraging and guiding them to meet their personal goals.

  • Create a safe, respectful environment by fostering trust and upholding individuals' rights, and support them with personal care, life skills, and social activities.

  • Transport individuals to appointments, administer medications as prescribed, and assist with meal preparation, housekeeping, and documentation.

Beacon Specialized Living rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

173rd of 247 rated social care providers

Job description

Join the Beacon Specialized Living Services Team: Make a Real Impact!
Are you looking for a meaningful career where you can make a difference in the lives of others? Do you have a passion for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, and autism? If so, it's time to LEAP forward in your career at Beacon Specialized Living Services!
At Beacon, we're dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals, empowering them to live their fullest lives. Whether you're new to healthcare or experienced, we offer the training, support, and opportunities to help you grow professionally. NO experience is required to join our team - we'll train you!
What Can I Expect as a Direct Support Professional (DSP)?
As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Beacon, you will support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and mental health challenges. Your role will be instrumental in helping residents live independently, achieve personal goals, and improve their quality of life.
Daily Responsibilities Include:
  • Provide Support & Care: Encourage and guide individuals throughout the day to meet their goals, following person-centered and behavior plans.
  • Foster a Safe Environment: Create a trust-filled space where individuals feel safe, supported, and respected, ensuring their rights are upheld.
  • Meal Prep & Housekeeping: Cook meals based on dietary specifications and assist with laundry and cleaning to maintain a safe and organized home environment.
  • Transportation & Advocacy: Transport individuals to appointments, advocate on their behalf, and assist with documentation.
  • Medication Administration: Administer medications as prescribed and ensure the correct dosage is provided.
  • 24/7 Availability: Remain awake and accessible in homes requiring round-the-clock care.
  • Supervise Daily Activities: Support individuals with personal care, life skills, and social activities.

What We're Looking For:
  • Passion for Helping Others: You're committed to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges.
  • Team Player: You'll work closely with a team of compassionate professionals who share your dedication to providing quality care.
  • Reliable & Dependable: You're someone others can count on, whether it's for coming to work on time, completing tasks efficiently, or providing consistent care.
  • Willingness to Learn: We provide on-the-job training, and we value candidates who are eager to learn and grow with us.
  • Physical & Emotional Resilience: The role requires physical activity and the ability to work in environments with occasional challenging behaviors.

What We offer:
  • Competitive Pay & Benefits
    We offer competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision (starting 1st of the month after 60 days)
  • First Stop Health Telehealth - FREE for employee & Family
  • 24/7 care via the app Virtual Urgent Care, Primary Care and Mental Health Care.
  • Life Insurance and 401k (with employer match)
  • Paid Training - including CPR, De-Escalation Training, and Medication Administration Certification
  • DailyPay - Make any day PayDay!
  • Advancement Opportunities with our LEAP Program!

Beacon's Leadership, Excellence, Advancement, and Promotion (LEAP) program is designed to help you grow professionally and advance in your career.
  • LEAP to Leadership: The LEAP program is a structured development program designed to prepare you for leadership roles and increased compensation.
  • Advance Quickly: You can progress through the Leveling System within your first 90 days based on developing skills, demonstrating leadership potential, and advancing in your role.
  • Be a Part of a Growth-Focused Organization: Join a company that values your contributions and supports your career development every step of the way.
    Qualifications:
    • Required:
      • High school diploma or GED.
      • Must be 18 years of age or older.
      • Valid driver's license.
      • Compassionate and patient demeanor when working with individuals who have mental illness and co-occurring disorders.
    • Preferred:
      • 1-2 years of experience in healthcare, social services, or a related field (but not required).
      • Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written).
      • Ability to work in environments with potential exposure to physical aggression and infectious disease.

    #MI123

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