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Direct Support Person Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ADDWC

Direct Support Person (DSP)

Eureka, IL · On-site

$19.10/hr

15 hours a week/ Monday- Friday morning shift 6:30Am-9:30AM ADDWC is currently seeking applicants for Residential Direct Support Professionals. The DSP role is to assist individuals become self ...

ADDWC

Direct Support Person (DSP)2nd

Eureka, IL · On-site

$19.25/hr

Part-time 2nd shift ADDWC is currently seeking applicants for Residential Direct Support Professionals. The DSP role is to assist individuals become self sufficient and assist with activities of ...

Verland

ATF Support Person

Sharon, PA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

The Uniontown Adult Training Facility (ATF) Support Person assists the Sharon ATF supervisor in coordinating and supervising the programming, which is carried out by the Direct Support Professionals ...

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How much do direct support person jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support person in the United States is $16.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.55 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.

What cities are hiring for Direct Support Person jobs?

Cities with the most Direct Support Person job openings:

What states have the most Direct Support Person jobs?

States with the most job openings for Direct Support Person jobs include:

Direct Support Person jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Person job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,871 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Direct Support Person

Illinois Housing and Disability services

Park Forest, IL • On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

  • Assists individuals in the development of appropriate behavioral, social, money management, housekeeping, hygiene, and other skills necessary to reach their highest level of potential
  • Completes and updates all daily, weekly and monthly records, reports, logs, casework notes, administrative paperwork, fiscal reports, and medical records in an accurate, timely, and professional manner
  • Transports individuals in personal and/or company vehicle for community outings or scheduled appointments
  • Ensures individuals' health, safety and welfare, enhances the quality of individuals' lives, and supports community inclusion
  • requirements:
  • High school diploma
  • valid and current CPR and first aid
  • Valid Drivers license
  • Already in the health care registry as DSP
  • has experience working with developmental disability
  • looking for weekend 12 hour night shifts

Company Description

group home office located in Naperville,IL