ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Iowa

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$15

$19

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Iowa is $15.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.49 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Iowa 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 Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,814 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Estherville

Hope Haven, Inc.

Estherville, IA • On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Hope Haven is an accredited resource for disability services and advocacy. We offer service programs and support to meet a broad range of needs for children, adults, and families - from physical, mental, and intellectual to residential, vocational, and spiritual.
We are currently looking for Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to help support our clients and team members. Direct Support Professionals provide support to our clients based on their individual goals, which always include making sure their physical, mental, emotional, and social needs are met. As a DSP you will have the opportunity to serve individuals with intellectual disabilities or chronic mental health conditions.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • A belief that individuals with a disability can fully participate in societal roles, alongside community members without disabilities. Maximizing opportunities for the development of individual relationships with community members.
  • Provide support and training to individuals as identified in the service plan and assure individual's physical and mental needs are being cared for, which may include hygiene, bathing/showering, toileting, escort, transition time, and mealtime assistance.
  • Teach self-control and self-management skills in accordance with departmental training.
  • Complete documentation requirements (client logs, charts) as determined by the Service Plan and regulations at the end of the shift or within 24 hours with supervisor approval.
  • Support individuals in developing and carrying out a daily schedule of activities tailored to meet the needs of the person being supported.
  • Assist individuals in arranging necessary appointments and transportation as needed and assure the appropriate documentation has been completed
  • Promote personal safety and safety measures among team and clients being supported. Follow all safety procedures.

Qualifications:
  • High school graduate or GED/HSED (High School Equivalency Diploma) is preferred
  • Good written and verbal communication skills and have basic computer skills.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in making decisions.
  • Ability to complete/pass required medication administration course.
  • Valid Class C driver's license required.
  • Clearance from all applicable background checks as required by service standards.
  • Reliable transportation.
  • Provide proof of state minimum liability insurance coverage.

Benefits:
  • Health Insurance coverage by Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Free $15,000 Term Life Insurance Policy
  • 403B Retirement Plan with 8% employer match after one year
  • Flex Spending - put aside pretax dollars used for medical & dependent care reimbursement.
  • Supplemental Benefits: Accident, Critical Illness, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, and Voluntary Life.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Temporary Medical Leave (TML)
  • Holidays based on status of employment
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Military Leave
  • Jury Duty
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act)
  • Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF Program)
  • BVU Partnership Educational Benefits
  • Pay on Demand with Dayforce Wallet

Physical Requirements:
  • Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Physical strength and flexibility to assist the individuals with outdoor and indoor maintenance
  • Physical mobility to walk, stoop, stand, sit, and climb steps.
  • Physical strength to assist individuals in transferring as per Hope Haven policy.
  • Physical ability to maintain balance while moving, while being pushed or pulled, and to lower self to a "half-squat" position while keeping back straight.

If this all sounds like a good fit, you are here for a reason. Apply today. We offer competitive compensation, benefits, and scheduling. And you'll be able to put your gifts to good use, which comes with its own amazing rewards.

Apply