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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Wisconsin

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

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, including positions such as residential support staff, community habilitation workers, and behavioral support specialists. These jobs typically involve working in group homes, community agencies, or healthcare settings and often require skills in communication, caregiving, and behavior management.

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.

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.

Is a direct support professional a good career?

A direct support professional (DSP) provides assistance to individuals with disabilities, often working in community or residential settings. It offers opportunities for meaningful work, skill development, and job stability, especially with certifications like CPR and first aid. The role typically involves flexible hours and requires strong communication and patience.

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.

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 pay rates, with some states or cities offering premium wages for experienced DSPs. Overall, salaries vary widely based on location and qualifications, but urban centers often provide higher compensation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, and 39% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Caregiver

Dungarvin

Madison, WI • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Dungarvin rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 240 rated social care providers


Job description

Company Description
Who we are:
At Dungarvin, we are more than a provider of support services-we're a mission-driven team rooted in respect, response and choice. Since 1976, we've been dedicated to meeting people where they are, working alongside them to provide person centered supports that allow people to live independently as possible. You'll work directly with people in need of assistance, and/or living with intellectual or developmental disabilities, or other complex medical needs.
With services nationwide, our team is united by a shared commitment to making a real difference-one person, one voice, one choice at a time. We encourage you to embrace this opportunity to impact someone's life.
Join our team as a Direct Support Professional / Caregiver in Madison, WI!
Schedule: Variety of schedules available
Wage: $17 - $19/hour(on weekends); non-drivers $16
Company Benefits/Perks:
  • Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance for FT employees
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Flex Spending and HSA Accounts for FT employees
  • Pet Insurance
  • Life Insurance for FT employees
  • 401 K plan with up to 3% employer match after one year of services
  • PAID TIME OFF (PTO) for eligible employees
  • PTO Donation
  • Growth and Development Opportunities
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • National Brand Discounts
  • Tapcheck - access to 50% of your pay before payday
  • PAID training and orientation

Job Description
What You Get To Do:
Working directly as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Caregiver, you will be able to assist in a residential group home by assisting people with disabilities achieve a variety of outcomes, assist with personal cares and provide normalization/community integration. The DSP (caregiver/mentor) is responsible for providing:
  • Support and mentorship with daily activities to those we support in a manner that ensures their health and safety. Some examples include helping with meals, cleaning, housekeeping, laundry duties and facilitating fun activities.
  • Hands-on mentoring to those we serve to help them become more independent.
  • Positive direction to the individuals to encourage them to achieve their personal goals.
  • Provide medication administration and ensure person's medical well being.

No Experience? If you meet the basic job requirements, we will provide the necessary paid training and hands-on experience.
If interested in a Behavioral DSP role - to be successful in this role we are looking for candidates with prior experience with intense high behaviors, both verbal and physical! You will provide supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, people who are faced with metal health, behavioral, and/or significant medical challenges! We are looking to hire staff who are patient, have good decision making and crisis management skills, and who will not be intimated by these behaviors. Prior IDD, mental health, psychiatric, and/or security experience is strongly preferred.
Qualifications
What Makes You A Great Fit:
  • Valid Drivers License (due to transporting persons served)
  • Excitement for working with adults with disabilities
  • High school diploma or GED certificate
  • Good communication is key in this role. You'll rely on your reading, writing, and communication skills to document care, follow support plans, and collaborate with both internal and external team members.
  • A successful background clearance is required as part of the onboarding/employment process
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Candidates must be comfortable driving company vehicles to transport persons served as required
    • Some positions / locations may require own personal vehicle and auto-liability insurance based on the role

Nice to Have:
  • Experience with adults with mental health issues, disabilities or related experience

Additional Information
Why this position:
  • Personal fulfillment, a meaningful career, and the chance to make a difference.
  • Positively impact someone's life.
  • Gain healthcare experience to further your career.
  • Reliable work schedule.
  • Varied day-to-day experiences; no two days are the same.

We believe in supporting not only those we serve but also each other, ensuring a collaborative and supportive work environment for all. Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law.
8/6
#DWIJ
Videos To Watch
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjAZH-n4lSI

What Dungarvin employees say

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About Dungarvin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Mendota Heights, MN, US

Year founded

1976

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