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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Colorado

ATTUF Group LLC

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Loveland, CO · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Role Summary As a DSP, you'll provide direct daily living support, skill development, and community ... Career advancement and ongoing professional development opportunities Why Join Attuf Group? * Make ...

ATTUF Group LLC

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Denver, CO · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Role Summary As a DSP, you'll provide direct daily living support, skill development, and community ... Career advancement and ongoing professional development opportunities Why Join Attuf Group? * Make ...

OPPO LLC

Direct Support Professional

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

  • PTO

Direct Support Professional (DSP) If you are passionate about helping others, today might be your lucky day. Are you looking for meaningful work that goes beyond a typical job--where your impact is ...

OPPO LLC

Direct Support Professional

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

  • PTO

Direct Support Professional (DSP) If you are passionate about helping others, today might be your lucky day. Are you looking for meaningful work that goes beyond a typical job--where your impact is ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$17

$21

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Colorado is $17.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.46 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 Colorado?

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

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

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

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

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

Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,616 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Community Options, Inc.

Montrose, CO

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Community Options rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 242 rated social care providers

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP)MONTROSE, DELTA & CEDAREDGE
Make a Difference Every Day!Now Hiring DSPs / Paid Training / Meaningful Work / Great Team Environment

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will build meaningful relationships, support daily activities, encourage personal growth, and make a lasting impact in your community - all while working alongside a supportive and energetic team. Provision of service takes place in a variety of locations.

If you're searching for more than "just a job," this could be the career for you.

Why You'll Love Working Here

We offer Full-Time, Part-Time, and Relief Positions at multiple locations such as in Montrose, Delta and Cedaredge. We offer paid training with career growth opportunities in a supportive team culture where you have an opportunity to make a real difference every day!

What You'll Do

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will provide hands-on support and encouragement to individuals receiving services. Responsibilities include:
Assisting with daily living activities such as: bathing, dressing, meal prep, housekeeping and personal care. Supporting individuals in building communication and social skills, such as talking, writing, leisure activities, treatment toward self and others; independence and community involvement along with administering medications in accordance with Colorado QMAP guidelines, monitoring and documenting changes in health, behavior, and well-being. You'll assist in implementing individualized support plans and goals, transporting individuals to appointments, community activities, employment opportunities and/or recreational outings while creating a safe, positive and respectful environment.

Qualifications
High school diploma or GED preferred; must meet all agency hiring and eligibility requirements to include a valid Colorado driver's license with acceptable driving record, ability to obtain QMAP certification, first aid/CPR certification.

Apply Today!

Start a rewarding career where your work truly matters. We can't wait to meet you!

Equal Opportunity Employer

Community Options, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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