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Direct Support Person Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

EMPOWERING ANGELS LLC

Direct Support professional

Oberlin, OH · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Build trusting relationships and promote positive, person-centered care What we're looking for: * Compassion, patience, and a positive attitude * Experience with personal care or direct support ...

EMPOWERING ANGELS LLC

Direct Support professional

Oberlin, OH · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Build trusting relationships and promote positive, person-centered care What we're looking for: * Compassion, patience, and a positive attitude * Experience with personal care or direct support ...

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Direct Support Professional

Solon, OH · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

DSPs promote empowerment, independence, and inclusion while maintaining a respectful and person-centered approach. Responsibilities of a Direct Support Professional 1. Individual Support Services ...

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Direct Support Professional

Solon, OH · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

DSPs promote empowerment, independence, and inclusion while maintaining a respectful and person-centered approach. Responsibilities of a Direct Support Professional 1. Individual Support Services ...

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Direct Support Person information

What is a direct support person?

Direct Support Persons (DSPs) are professionals who provide care and assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them live as independently as possible. They support clients with daily activities such as personal care, medication management, transportation, and community involvement. DSPs play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life and promoting the dignity of those they serve, often working in homes, community settings, or care facilities. Their work is vital in ensuring that people with disabilities have the opportunity to participate fully in society.

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

To thrive as a Direct Support Person, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and often completion of specialized training or certification in disability support. Familiarity with individualized support plans, assistive technologies, and documentation systems is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are vital soft skills for building trust and effectively supporting individuals with disabilities. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring client well-being, fostering independence, and maintaining a safe, supportive environment.

What are some common challenges direct support persons face, and how can they effectively handle them?

Direct Support Persons often encounter challenges such as managing clients with varying behavioral and emotional needs, balancing multiple responsibilities, and maintaining clear communication among team members and families. Successfully handling these challenges typically involves ongoing training in crisis intervention, strong teamwork, and developing patience and empathy. Regular check-ins with supervisors and collaborating with other care professionals can also provide valuable support and resources for managing difficult situations.

How do you become a certified direct support person?

To become a certified direct support person, individuals typically need to complete a state-approved training program that covers topics such as person-centered planning, medication administration, and behavior management. Many states also require passing a competency exam and obtaining a background check before working in the role.

Is a direct support person a good career?

A direct support person provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, often working in healthcare or social services. It can be a rewarding career with opportunities for growth, requiring skills in communication, patience, and sometimes certification or training. Job stability and satisfaction depend on the work environment and personal interests in helping others.

Where do direct support persons get paid the most?

Direct support persons tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living, such as certain urban areas or states with competitive healthcare and social service sectors. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific employer, with some private agencies offering higher pay than public or nonprofit organizations.
Direct Support Person jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Person job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Direct Support Professional

Bedford, OH

Shines Support Ltd
See more jobs at Shines Support Ltdexternal

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Location: Cuyahoga County

Employment Type: PRN or Part-time (10–20 hrs/weekly)

Compensation: $13–$19 per hour based on experience and schedule

Schedule: rotating shifts; flexible hours including evenings/weekends

Travel: Required throughout Cuyahoga County

Job Description

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) , you will provide person-centered support to individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) in their home and in the community.

This is not a home health aide or home sitter position — a Direct Support Professional (DSP) mission is to empower individuals through direct coaching, self advocacy, and to support individuals in building skills, achieving goals, and increasing their independence.

✅ Key Responsibilities:

● Deliver direct professional assistance to individuals with DD in cultivating independence, mastering vocational skills, and fostering meaningful community integration.

● Follow and implement Individual Service Plans (ISPs) tailored to each person’s support services.

● Complete accurate and timely documentation (within 24 hours) of services provided and client progress.

● Maintain and promote the rights, dignity, and choices of each individual served.

● Assist with administrative tasks (e.g. completing reports, preparing documents) as needed.

What We’re Looking For:

● Passionate about empowering individuals with disabilities

● Responsible and able to manage time effectively across multiple client sites

● Strong communicators—both verbally and in writing

● Flexible and adaptable to a rotating, community-based schedule

● Tech-savvy and comfortable using a smartphone, tablet, or laptop for documentation

Minimum Qualifications:

● Age 18 or older

● High school diploma or GED

● CPR (required)

● At least 1 year of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities (volunteer work, internships, or care giving roles)

● Valid Ohio driver’s license, active auto insurance, and reliable transportation

● Clean criminal background and drug-free lifestyle

● Ability to work independently and as part of a team

● Availability for rotating shifts, including evenings and weekends

What You’ll Need

● Your own smartphone, laptop, or tablet for documentation

● A willingness to drive within Cuyahoga County

● A collaborative mindset and a passion for inclusive support

Preferred Qualities

● Interest in a future career in social work, education, vocational rehab, or psychology

● Experience in community employment, coaching, or peer support

● Familiarity with person-centered planning or trauma informed care 

Compensation & Schedule

● Part-Time or Per Diem (10–20 hours/week): $13/hour - $19/hour 

● Mileage reimbursement for personal vehicle use

● Flexible scheduling, based on clients needs