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Direct Support Professional Caregiver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver

Gardner, KS · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Work as a Direct Support Professional / DSP / Caregiver with a Non-Profit that cares! Provide Support, Build Relationships, and Make a Difference! At AbleLight, people are the heart of everything we ...

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Direct Support Professional Caregiver information

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How much do direct support professional caregiver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional caregiver in the United States is $15.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional caregiver?

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Caregivers are trained individuals who assist people with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities in their daily lives. They help clients with personal care, medication management, transportation, meal preparation, and participation in community activities. DSP Caregivers are essential for promoting independence, safety, and a higher quality of life for those they support. Their work often takes place in homes, group residences, or community settings, providing both practical and emotional support.

What challenges do direct support professional caregivers face and how can they be managed?

Direct Support Professional Caregivers often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable behaviors, balancing multiple clients' needs, and maintaining clear boundaries while building supportive relationships. Effective communication, consistent routines, and ongoing training in de-escalation techniques are essential for managing these challenges. Many organizations also provide mentorship, teamwork, and regular check-ins to help staff navigate difficult situations and prevent burnout, fostering a supportive work environment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a direct support professional caregiver?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional Caregiver, you need a foundational understanding of personal care, support strategies for individuals with disabilities, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation systems, basic medical equipment, and sometimes certifications like CPR/First Aid are typically required. Patience, strong communication, empathy, and problem-solving abilities are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety, well-being, and empowerment of clients while maintaining effective and compassionate care.

What is the difference between Direct Support Professional Caregiver vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support Professional CaregiverPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires CPR, First Aid, and state-specific trainingMay require similar certifications, depending on state regulations
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProvides in-home assistance to elderly or disabled clients
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome healthcare agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Professional Caregivers typically work with people with disabilities in community or residential settings, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide in-home support to elderly or disabled clients. The certifications and work environments overlap, but their focus and settings differ.

More about Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs
What cities are hiring for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs? Cities with the most Direct Support Professional Caregiver job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs? The top employers for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs are:
What states have the most Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs are:
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Caregiver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,034 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver

AbleLight

Gardner, KS • On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


AbleLight rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Work as a Direct Support Professional / DSP / Caregiver with a Non-Profit that cares! Provide Support, Build Relationships, and Make a Difference! At AbleLight, people are the heart of everything we do. Our mission, vision, and values reflect a commitment to people. As an organization, we are aligned, inspired, and driven toward a common goal - believing that together, the best life is possible! We are also offering Any Day Pay: Work today, get paid today. $1,500 Sign-on bonus! $1,000 Employee Referral Program. Requirements: High school graduate or equivalent. Must be 18 years of age, or older. Must possess a valid driver's license that is currently in good standing with a good record. Ability to pass a background check. Benefits (for those scheduled 30 hours per week or more): Health and Wellness: Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits starting the first of the month following 30 days of employment and access to Teledoc. Financial Wellness: 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with 3.5% matching contributions, Health Savings Account, Flexible Savings Account, and Basic Life, AD&D, STD, LTD insurance. Work/Life Balance: Paid Time Off (PTO), Tuition Reimbursements. The training program will allow you to become CPR-certified. Ongoing training to support Career Development. Responsibilities: The Direct Support Professional / DSP / Caregiver is responsible for providing direct support, positive direction, and assistance to the individuals we support of all ages, allowing them to be more effective in their everyday lives. Helping residents with dining, mobility, health, and hygiene activities. Accompanying individuals while running errands. Attending special community occasions and fun activities like outdoor walks, games, and social events. Assisting our individuals in achieving their personal goals and desires. Be a Direct Support Professional - DSP for a team that enhances the lives of our individuals in every way possible. Apply today to be a caregiver and make a difference in your community! #J-18808-Ljbffr


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