1

Direct Support Dsp Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Provides assistance, monitoring and/or training to individuals in the area of self-care, self-direction, independence, mobility and learning as directed by the Individual Service Plan (ISP) in order ...

Be Seen First

Provides assistance, monitoring and/or training to individuals in the area of self-care, self-direction, independence, mobility and learning as directed by the Individual Service Plan (ISP) in order ...

Lead DSP

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Lead DSP

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Lead DSP

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Lead DSP

Apache Junction, AZ

$14 - $17.25/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Lead DSP

Apache Junction, AZ

$14 - $17.25/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Lead DSP

Mesa, AZ

$15 - $18/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Lead DSP

Apache Junction, AZ · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Lead DSP

Mesa, AZ

$15 - $18/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Lead DSP

Mesa, AZ

$15 - $18/hr

The Lead Direct Support Professional will provide individualized and quality services to members ... Mentor, train, and support DSP staff * Act as a liaison for families and team communication * Help ...

Showing results 41-60

Direct Support Dsp information

See Arizona salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do direct support dsp jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support dsp in Arizona is $15.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support DSP?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. They help clients with tasks such as personal care, medication management, transportation, and community involvement, aiming to promote independence and improve quality of life. DSPs work in a variety of settings, including private homes, group homes, and day programs. The role requires patience, compassion, and strong communication skills, as DSPs often advocate for their clients’ needs and preferences. Their work is essential in supporting people to live as independently as possible.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support DSP?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and a genuine commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, medication administration protocols, and safety procedures is often required, along with relevant certifications such as CPR/First Aid. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, empathy, and the ability to advocate for clients are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that DSPs can provide safe, respectful, and effective support, promoting the well-being and independence of those they serve.

What are some common challenges direct support DSPs face when supporting individuals with disabilities, and how can they effectively manage them?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral crises, communicating with nonverbal individuals, and balancing the diverse needs of those they support. Effectively handling these situations requires patience, strong communication skills, and ongoing training in de-escalation techniques. Building trust and maintaining a consistent routine can help reduce stress for both the DSP and the individuals in their care. It’s also important to collaborate closely with team members, supervisors, and family members to develop personalized support strategies.

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

AspectDirect Support DspPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized trainingCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals with disabilities in homes, community settingsProviding personal care in homes, healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, healthcare agencies, government programsHome health agencies, private clients
Job FocusSupporting independence, assisting with daily activitiesPersonal care, hygiene, mobility assistance

Both roles involve providing care and support, often requiring similar certifications. However, Direct Support Dsp typically works with individuals with disabilities in various settings, focusing on promoting independence, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal hygiene and daily living assistance in home or healthcare environments.

Are direct support DSP jobs hard to get?

Direct Support Professional (DSP) jobs are generally accessible but can be competitive depending on the location and employer. Requirements often include a high school diploma or equivalent, background checks, and sometimes certification in CPR or first aid, which can influence the ease of hiring. Experience working with individuals with disabilities can also improve chances of securing a position.

Is being a direct support DSP a stressful job?

Being a direct support DSP can be stressful due to the physical and emotional demands of assisting individuals with disabilities, managing challenging behaviors, and maintaining safety. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle unpredictable situations, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find it rewarding and develop coping strategies over time.

Where do direct support professionals get paid the most?

Direct Support Professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services, such as certain metropolitan areas. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific employer, with some states or cities offering premium pay for specialized skills or overtime work.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Dsp jobs in Arizona?

For Direct Support Dsp jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Dsp jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Dsp jobs in Arizona are:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Dsp job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,564 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

AJ's Safe Place Residential Group Home

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$14.50 - $16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Our multiple locations are looking to fill multiple positions!

Full Job Description


AJ's Safe Place Residential operate multiple DTA and Group Homes in Phoenix and Laveen, AZ. These homes care for individuals with behavioral and developmental disabilities. Our Residential Group Homes operate on 3, 8 hours shifts (7 am-3 pm, 3 pm-11 pm, 11 pm-7 am) 365 days a year. Our caregivers work with medical care teams and case workers to provide care to our members ranging from basic household tasks to accompanying the members to their doctors appointment.


Past caregiving experience is a plus but it is not required! With ambitions of expanding, we are eager to build a team of good-hearted people who enjoy caring for others.

We plan and carry out direct care of individuals with behavioral and developmental disabilities. Our passion is making sure that those placed within our homes are made to feel loved, supported and encouraged in their everyday life; we want them to have a feeling of family and community. As a Caregiver/Direct Care Professional you will be working hands on with our residents in group, 1:1, and or 2:1 setting.


Basic & Key Responsibilities:


  1. Dress Residents
  2. Feed Residents
  3. Assisting with Basic Household Chores
  4. Coordinating Grocery Deliveries
  5. Transport Residents to Appointments, Visits, and Activities
  6. Provide emotional support & companionship
  7. Monitor and ensure the health and safety of all individuals living in the home.
  8. Administer medications as prescribed by a medical professional.
  9. Prepare all necessary meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks etc.).
  10. Implement habilitation objectives/goals as agreed upon by the ISP team.
  11. When applicable implement behavior building plans.
  12. Actively interact with individuals in the home throughout your shift.
  13. Complete all required documentation before leaving shift.
  14. Assist with preparing monthly activity calendar and weekly menus.
  15. Ensure the home is clean and in good repair.Duties as assigned.


As a Caregiver / Direct Care Professional


  1. You are a mandatory reporter. If you suspect any type of abuse or neglect; you will contact the appropriate authorities, DCS/APS, and your direct supervisor.
  2. Completion of Incident Reports as directed.
  3. Maintaining current qualifications and trainings.

Qualifications:


  1. Ability to obtain/maintain a Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card
  2. Ability to obtain/maintain a valid Drivers License
  3. Must be at least 18 years of age
  4. Proficient with the English language: written and verbal


Duties

  1. Reading, writing, and carrying out directions
  2. Charting or taking notes for others to review
  3. Providing companionship and supportive listening
  4. Reporting changes in the health or status of the client
  5. Taking vitals, height, and weight
  6. Feeding clients
  7. Maintaining patient’s health equipment
  8. Responding to emergency situations
  9. Administering medication
  10. Transporting client to appointments
  11. Facilitating community and recreational outings, including transport
  12. Providing support with hobbies, studies, and social activities