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Direct Support Person Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mount St. Joseph

Direct Support Professional

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

... person's needs. Services focus on dignity, independence, quality of life, and meaningful ... The Direct Support Professional provides hands-on support to individuals with intellectual and ...

Posted today

Help at Home

Direct Support Professional

Portage, IN · On-site

$17/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Join Help at Home and make a real difference in your community ... Person-Centered Individualized Support Plans (PCISPs), high risk plans, and behavior support plans

Anixter Center

Direct Support Professional

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.92/hr

Direct Support Professional Join us - and do work that matters. We're a passionate team of change ... Implements dynamic, person-centered client programming across multiple domains, including but not ...

Anixter Center

Direct Support Professional

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.92/hr

Direct Support Professional Join us - and do work that matters. We're a passionate team of change ... Implements dynamic, person-centered client programming across multiple domains, including but not ...

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All JobsDirect Support Person JobsDirect Support Person Jobs in Chicago, IL

Direct Support Person information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do direct support person jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support person in Chicago, IL is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,892 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Direct Support Person

Oak Crest Residence Association

Elgin, IL • On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Work with 55+ community to provide direct support for daily needs in independent living community.