1

Direct Support Person Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Successfully complete Direct Support Person training in accordance with IDHS requirements * Pass the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S-TOFHLA) * Successfully complete medication ...

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 ...

New

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support Person information

See salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support person jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 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.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A Direct Support Person can increase earnings by working multiple shifts, gaining specialized certifications, or taking on additional clients, which may lead to higher pay. However, earning $2000 weekly typically requires a combination of full-time hours, experience, and possibly supplementing income through related roles or freelance opportunities in the healthcare or support field.

What does a direct support person do?

A direct support person provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, household tasks, and community participation. They often work in clients' homes or care facilities and may require training in first aid or CPR to ensure safety and effective support.

Is a degree needed to be a DSP?

A degree is not typically required to become a direct support person (DSP), but relevant training, certifications, and a high school diploma or equivalent are often preferred. Employers may also look for experience, good communication skills, and the ability to work with individuals with disabilities.

What are Direct Support Persons?

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.

Is being a DSP a stressful job?

Being a Direct Support Person (DSP) can be stressful due to the physical and emotional demands of assisting individuals with disabilities, managing challenging behaviors, and ensuring safety. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle unpredictable situations, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find it rewarding and develop coping strategies over time.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,871 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Direct Support Person - Chillicothe

Community Workshop and Training Center

Chillicothe, IL โ€ข On-site

$17.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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

Salary Description
17.60/hr.