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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Sr Direct Support Prof

West Valley City, UT · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

The Senior Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for providing person-centered care tailored to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will ...

Sr Direct Support Prof

West Valley City, UT · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

The Senior Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for providing person-centered care tailored to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will ...

Direct Support Professional

Midvale, UT · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support Professionals at Haven View play a vital role in the day-to-day care, support, and personal development of the individuals we serve. Your primary responsibility is to provide ...

Caregiver (DSP)

Midvale, UT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

At OPPO, our Direct Support Professionals are at the heart of what we do . As a DSP, you're more than support--you're a coach, encourager, problem-solver, and trusted partner. You'll work directly ...

Showing results 41-60

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Utah salary details

$8

$14

$18

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Utah is $14.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $15.96 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 Utah?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,835 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Ogden Residential Home DSP

TURN Community Services

Ogden, UT • On-site

$16.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


TURN Community Services rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

TURN Community Services in Ogden is looking to hire a full-time Residential Direct Support Professional - DSP. Would you like to grow your career in human services with a well-established organization? Do you want to make a profound impact in the lives of people you work with? If so, please read on!

This entry-level caregiving position earns a competitive wage of $16.50/hour plus a $600 sign-on bonus paid out over six months. We provide excellent benefits, including a health plan through health reimbursement accounts (HRA) with an option to participate in a health savings account (HSA), dental, vision, accrued paid time off (PTO) following a waiting period, a 401(k) with employer match, an employee assistance program (EAP), life, and disability. If this sounds like the right entry-level opportunity in the human services field for you, apply today!


ABOUT TURN COMMUNITY SERVICES

TURN Community Services was founded in 1973 by a group of parents who wanted better services for their adult children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We provide resources to more than 850 individuals with developmental disabilities. With locations from Brigham City to St. George, we offer a full range of services including day programs, residential living, art center programs, summer camp, and supported employment opportunities.

Our mission is to TURN dreams into reality and that objective applies to our employees as well. We genuinely care about the people in our employ and want to make a difference in their lives and careers. We strive to do so by offering generous benefits and promoting a work environment where everyone supports each other.


A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A RESIDENTIAL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL - DSP

As a Residential Direct Support Professional - DSP, you support individuals with developmental disabilities in living their lives to the fullest and as independently as possible. You provide this support and guidance during day shifts, swing shifts, or night shifts in supported living programs, group homes, and family support programs. Your support is needed in many areas of daily living such as medication administration, hygiene, grooming, shopping, meal preparation, transportation, and housekeeping.

Using effective teaching and mentoring techniques, you provide life skills training with financial management and behavior management strategies. You also help them to access and participate in their community by supporting them in gaining employment, building relationships, and finding recreational activities they enjoy. You are always careful to model appropriate social skills and behaviors. You find it very rewarding to help individuals with developmental disabilities lead self-fulfilling lives, which makes you perfect for this caregiving position!


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Desire to make a positive difference in the lives of people with disabilities
  • 18 years old or older
  • Driver's License Required
  • Personal vehicle and ability to transport individuals in personal vehicle preferred

Are you punctual, reliable, and self-disciplined? Can you keep track of multiple tasks and prioritize them effectively? Do you have strong communication and interpersonal skills? Are you discreet with confidential information? Can you show compassion while maintaining professional boundaries? Are you calm, flexible, and patient? Can you work well as part of a team? If yes, you might just be perfect for this entry-level caregiving position!


POSITION SCHEDULE: 30.5 HOURS/WEEK

Monday and Tuesday 3:00pm-8:30pm

Wednesday Off

Thursday and Friday 3:00pm-8:30pm

Saturday off

Sunday 8:00am-4:00pm



Must be able to pass a background check upon hire. Any job offer will be based on the results of the background check.


What TURN Community Services employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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