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Direct Support Person Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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Direct Support Person information

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How much do direct support person jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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.

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 higher minimum wages. Additionally, those working in specialized settings or with advanced certifications may receive higher pay. Salaries can also vary based on experience, employer, and shift differentials.

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.

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 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:
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, 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 $33,871 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Direct Support Person - Chillicothe

COMMUNITY WORKSHOP & TRAINING

Chillicothe, IL โ€ข On-site

$17.60/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

Mission Statement

Our central Illinois organization provides programs and services to adults with disabilities; enriching their quality of life, promoting social change, and optimizing their potential for independence.

REPORTS TO: CILA/CLF Manager

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS: The Direct Support Person is responsible for providing training and supervision to the residents and maintaining a clean and sanitary home-like environment.

Responsibilities are to be completed in accordance with CWTC’s mission, policies, and in a manner that supports individuals with disabilities. All employees are required to attend mandated training sessions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  1. Assist or perform programming to help residents with disabilities obtain Discovery Plan goals
  2. Assist residents with maintaining personal hygiene by assisting with bathing, brushing hair and teeth or other self-care needs.
  3. Changing and washing soiled linens and/or clothing and assisting with laundry as needed
  4. Participate on activities with residents including transportation of residents
  5. Assist residents with mobility as needed
  6. Assist with the preparation of or prepare meals for residents
  7. Assist residents in maintaining a safe and sanitary bedroom and/or bathroom including making beds, putting personal items away and keeping floors clean and free of tripping hazards
  8. Teach daily living skills, such as cooking, cleaning and shopping.
  9. Daily cleaning of facility, laundry, bed checks (if shift requires) and water temperature checks (if required)
  10. Medication administration
  11. Complete required paperwork completely and accurately

OTHER DUTIES:

  1. Transportation of or escorting of residents as needed
  2. Coordinate medical appointments with assistance of house manager
  3. Attend staff meetings and required trainings
  4. Perform other tasks, not inconsistent with qualifications or regular duties as assigned

WORKING CONDITIONS: Physical conditions include bending, standing, stooping, driving, lifting up to 25 pounds, and being able to stay awake during assigned hours. Environmental conditions include working around cleaning chemicals and kitchen appliances. Interpersonal conditions include communicating clearly with adults with disabilities. Work assignments and schedules are subject to change based on the needs of the facility.

RELATED CONDITION: All employees are responsible for reporting any information, however acquired, pertaining to possible abuse or neglect of consumers to the Director of Quality Improvement, the Safety Director, or the Executive Director.

SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION: Employees must follow all safety policies and use necessary protective equipment when applicable. Employees are responsible for reporting safety hazards and/or accidents to their supervisors immediately.


Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. High school diploma or equivalent (Documentation will be required to be provided prior to start date)
  2. 18 years of age
  3. Valid drivers’ license and current auto insurance (Documentation will be required to be provided prior to start date)
  4. Experience working with adults with disabilities helpful
  5. Must be able to successfully complete DSP classes and pass, complete and maintain Medication Administration authorization