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Direct Support Person Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional

Euclid, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

The Direct Support Professional provides direct care and meaningful engagement to adults with ... Essential Job Functions Person-Centered Support * Support individuals in a manner consistent with ...

Direct Support Professional

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Direct Support Professional

Cardington, OH · On-site

$12 - $14.75/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Direct Support Professional

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Direct Support Professional

Centerburg, OH · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Direct Support Professional

London, OH · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Direct Support Professional

Marion, OH · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Direct Support Professional

Marion, OH · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Direct Support Professional

London, OH · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Caregiver

London, OH · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ... person lives in another state and is commuting, they must have a valid driver's license in good ...

Direct Support Professional

Centerburg, OH · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

With our dedicated team and experienced staff, we provide person-centered services that help people ... Responsible for providing direct support within a single program or unit within a program ...

Showing results 41-60

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.
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.

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Ohio Adult Day Care

(DBA) Peace Love Healthcare

Job Title

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Reports To

Program Supervisor or Site Manager

Location

Peace Love Healthcare - Ohio (multiple community and in-home settings: Cuyahoga, Summit, Geauga, Fairfield, Franklin, and Delaware Counties)

Position Summary

At Peace Love Healthcare, we deliver compassionate, person-centered support that helps individuals thrive, remain independent, and participate fully in their communities. The Direct Support Professional provides direct care and meaningful engagement to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role supports individualized goals, daily living, community participation, and well-being in alignment with DODD standards and Peace Love Healthcare's core values of peace, love, and strengthened care.

Essential Job Functions

Person-Centered Support


  • Support individuals in a manner consistent with person-centered planning principles

  • Assist individuals in achieving goals outlined in their Individual Service Plan

  • Promote independence, self-determination, and choice

  • Respect individual rights, preferences, culture, and dignity at all times

Daily Living & Personal Care


  • Assist with activities of daily living, including hygiene, grooming, dressing, toileting, mobility, and meals as needed

  • Support medication administration in accordance with DODD and agency policy when certified

  • Assist with meal preparation, household tasks, and maintaining a clean and safe living environment

Health, Safety, and Compliance


  • Follow all DODD rules, Medicaid waiver requirements, and agency policies

  • Maintain a safe environment and respond appropriately to emergencies

  • Implement behavior support plans as written

  • Accurately document services provided, incidents, and progress notes

  • Report abuse, neglect, exploitation, and incidents as required by law

Community Integration


  • Support individuals in accessing the community, employment, education, recreation, and social opportunities

  • Encourage skill development related to communication, social interaction, and community participation

  • Provide transportation support when required

Professional Collaboration


  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, service coordinators, nurses, guardians, and interdisciplinary team members

  • Participate in required trainings, meetings, and supervision

  • Maintain professional boundaries and ethical conduct

Required Qualifications (Ohio DODD Aligned)


  • Must be at least 18 years of age

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Ability to pass a BCI and FBI background check in compliance with Ohio law

  • Completion of DODD-required training, including:

    • Orientation and provider-specific training

    • Abuse and neglect prevention

    • Individual rights

    • Health and safety

    • Behavior support, as applicable

Ability to obtain and maintain:


  • CPR and First Aid certification

  • Medication Administration certification, if applicable

  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation, if required for the role

Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English

Ability to complete accurate documentation and electronic records

Preferred Qualifications


  • Previous experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities

  • Training or experience in positive behavior supports

  • Experience working in residential, day program, or community-based settings

Physical and Environmental Requirements


  • Ability to lift, push, or transfer individuals as required

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and assist with mobility

  • Ability to work in home, community, or residential settings

  • Ability to respond calmly and effectively in stressful situations

Core Competencies


  • Compassion and empathy

  • Reliability and accountability

  • Respect for diversity and inclusion

  • Strong communication skills

  • Professional judgment and ethics

  • Commitment to person-centered care

Compliance Statement

All services must be delivered in accordance with Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities rules, Medicaid waiver requirements, and agency policies (Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 5123). Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Peace Love Healthcare is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and the individuals we serve. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Peace Love Healthcare complies with all applicable Ohio and federal employment laws and provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the law.