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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

$16.75/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Philadelphia ... Sunday , Thursday , Saturday 8am-4pm Monday 4pm-12am Pay : $16.75 Our ideal DSP candidate will have ...

$18.75/hr

Direct Support Professional Location: Philadelphia, PA 19115 Pay Rate: $16.75/ hr , e arn up to $18.75/hour with election of Enhanced Pay option. Shifts available: 3rd shift with weekends Are you ...

Direct Support Professional

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Direct Support Professionals Needed! We are currently looking for individuals interested in providing support for those with disabilities; in a Group home environment assist them in daily living ...

Be Seen First

1ST Shift 7-3 2ND Shift - 3PM-11PM A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a person who provides assistance and support to individuals with disabilities, helping them lead independent and fulfilling ...

Be Seen First

1ST Shift 7-3 2ND Shift - 3PM-11PM A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a person who provides assistance and support to individuals with disabilities, helping them lead independent and fulfilling ...

Be Seen First

Louise's Promise Residential Homes are seeking compassion and dependable Direct Support Professional to provide care and supervision to individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism in a ...

Be Seen First

Louise's Promise Residential Homes are seeking compassion and dependable Direct Support Professional to provide care and supervision to individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism in a ...

Direct Support Professional

Centre, AL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any instances of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that they are involved in or witness. Sunrise is an ...

Direct Support Professional

Centre, AL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any instances of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that they are involved in or witness. Sunrise is an ...

Direct Support Professional

Centre, AL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any instances of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that they are involved in or witness. Sunrise is an ...

Direct Support Professional

Centre, AL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any instances of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that they are involved in or witness. Sunrise is an ...

Direct Support Professional

Centre, AL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any instances of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that they are involved in or witness. Sunrise is an ...

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Brookwood, AL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any instances of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that they are involved in or witness. Sunrise is an ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Alabama salary details

$8

$14

$18

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Alabama is $14.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $15.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional (DSP)?

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a caregiver who assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. DSPs help with personal care, skill development, community involvement, and fostering independence. Their work may include assisting with bathing, meal preparation, transportation, and providing emotional support. DSPs play a vital role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and quality of life for those they support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support professional (DSP), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and an understanding of developmental disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, medication administration, and CPR/First Aid certifications are often required. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities distinguish exceptional DSPs. These skills ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of individuals receiving support, fostering a positive and empowering environment.

What are some common challenges faced by direct support professionals (DSPs) and how can they be managed?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable behaviors, balancing the needs of multiple clients, and maintaining clear communication with both clients and their families. Building strong relationships, utilizing de-escalation techniques, and participating in ongoing training can help DSPs navigate these situations effectively. Team collaboration and regular support from supervisors also play a vital role in overcoming daily hurdles and ensuring high-quality care.

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

AspectDirect Support Professional DspPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires CPR, First Aid, and state-specific trainingMay require similar certifications, but less frequently mandated
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProvides personal care in private homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryHuman services agencies, non-profits, government programsHome healthcare agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Professionals typically work with people with disabilities in community or residential settings, requiring specific certifications. Personal Care Assistants often work in private homes, focusing on personal hygiene and daily living tasks, with slightly different certification requirements. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations and career paths in the caregiving industry.

Is being a direct support professional a stressful job?

Being a direct support professional can be stressful due to the physical and emotional demands of assisting individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging behaviors, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find it rewarding and develop coping strategies to manage stress effectively.

What jobs can I get with a direct support professional certification?

A direct support professional (DSP) certification qualifies individuals for roles providing assistance to people with disabilities, such as direct support worker, behavioral technician, residential care aide, or personal care assistant. These jobs typically involve helping clients with daily activities, implementing care plans, and supporting independence in community or residential settings. Certification often enhances employment prospects and may be required by employers or state regulations.

Where do direct support professionals get paid the most?

Direct Support Professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services, such as certain metropolitan areas. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence salary levels, with some states or cities offering premium pay for specialized skills or longer tenure.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Alabama?

For Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,700 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Merakey

On-site

$16.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Merakey rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

90th of 247 rated social care providers


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary team? At Merakey, we put heart and soul into everything we do. We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Philadelphia, PA.

If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be one, this is the opportunity for you as we are hiring immediately!

No experience required - we provide PAID training.

Shift : Sunday , Thursday , Saturday 8am-4pm Monday 4pm-12am

Pay : $16.75 

Our ideal DSP candidate will have a strong desire to create long-term impacts on their individuals lives and enjoy encouraging, mentoring, and coaching others to achieve their goals. Be a part of fostering a true sense of pride in your individual by teaching them to navigate daily living activities, such as housekeeping and laundry. Your work is performed in accordance with appropriate procedures under the supervision of the House Manager who reviews results through living area observation of activities in progress, residents’ responsiveness, inspection of living area, reports, and periodic meetings. Make a difference in the life of those you work with to enhance their independence by assisting with daily and personal activities.

Benefits

Merakey offers competitive compensation plans and more!

DailyPay
Work/Life Balance
Flexible Schedules
Cell Phone Discount Plans
Employee Referral Bonuses

About Merakey

Merakey is a non-profit provider of developmental, behavioral health, and education services. More than 8,000 employees provide support to nearly 40,000 individuals and families throughout 12 states across the country each year. Click here to watch a video about Merakey. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.

Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply!

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • High School diploma/G.E.D. preferred
  • Experience in a home health aide setting, or school setting working with people with Intellectual and Developmental disabilities preferred.
  • Must have a desire to help others reach their fullest potential.
  • Dual Diagnosis experience is preferred.

What Merakey employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Merakey logo

About Merakey

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Merakey is a leading developmental, behavioral health, and education non-profit provider with a fifty-year history. We offer a breadth of integrated services to individuals and communities across the country. Our belief that every individual has the right to achieve growth, dignity, and fulfillment guides all of our decisions. At Merakey, we care about each other and are committed to providing the very best care to those we serve. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.

Industry

Non-profits

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Lafayette Hill, PA, US

Year founded

1960