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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Appleton, WI

Mypath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Kaukauna, WI

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in ...

Mypath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Appleton, WI

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in ...

MyPath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in ...

Mypath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Green Bay, WI

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in ...

Vista Care

Caregiver Residential-Oshkosh

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Non-Exempt/Hourly Department: Operations Reports To: Residential Shift Supervisor Date: May 11, 2025 Job Summary: Under the direction of the Residential Shift ...

Vista Care

Caregiver Residential-Neenah

Neenah, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Non-Exempt/Hourly Department: Operations Reports To: Residential Shift Supervisor Date: May 11, 2025 Job Summary: Under the direction of the Residential Shift ...

Fundamentals LLC

Be Seen First

Direct Support Professional

Appleton, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

We're looking for compassionate, motivated individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals. In this role, you'll work directly with children and youth, helping them build essential life ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Appleton, WI salary details

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

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Appleton, WI is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Direct Support Professionals typically do not earn $4,000 per week without additional certifications or specialized experience. High-paying roles that can reach this level often involve skilled trades, sales, or entrepreneurship, but these usually require specific skills, licenses, or business acumen rather than a formal degree. Most jobs paying this amount without a degree are rare and often involve high risk or commission-based income.

Is a DSP the same as a caregiver?

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a caregiver who provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping with daily activities, personal care, and community integration. While both roles involve caregiving, DSPs often work in specific settings such as residential facilities or community programs and may require specialized training or certifications. The terms can overlap, but DSPs typically have a defined scope related to supporting individuals with disabilities.

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.

What can you do with a DSP certification?

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) certification qualifies individuals to provide personal care, assistance with daily living activities, and support for individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. It can enhance job prospects, increase earning potential, and may be required for certain positions in healthcare or social services settings.

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 salary levels, with some states or cities offering premium pay for specialized skills or longer tenure.

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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI 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 Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,049 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Productive Living Systems

Green Bay, WI • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

$16-$18 with Shift Differential and Sign-On Bonus!

Full Time Position for 2nd Shift

Are YOU ready to make a difference?

Productive Living System, Inc. (PLS) provides residential services for ambulatory adults who have a diagnosis of an intellectual disability or mental illness that require minimal personal cares. The main role of the Direct Support Professional (DSP) is to provide care to the clients by encouraging independent living. PLS is in the mental health field of Caregiving. We are employee-owned!

Primary Duties for DSP (Caregiver):
  • Engage clients in a variety of activities
  • Implement clients Individualized Service Plan
  • Accompany your client to appointments or social events
  • Electronic Progress Note Charting
  • Monitor/administer medication to clients
  • Provide transportation for errands or activities
  • Light housekeeping
  • Other duties as assigned
    • Requirements:
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED/HSED equivalent
  • Available to work every other weekend & some holidays
  • Proof of a valid Wisconsin driver's license with clean driving record (preferred)
  • Successful completion of preemployment physical, TB test, caregiver background check, and applicable training
    • Benefits:
  • 1st Shift: $500 signon bonus
  • 2nd Shift: $0.50/hour shift differential + $750 signon bonus
  • 3rd Shift: $2.00/hour shift differential + $1,000 signon bonus
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): Eligible employees receive shares of PLS stock annually, making them employeeowners who benefit from the longterm success and growth of the company.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan: Eligible employees are automatically enrolled in the Productive Living Systems 401(k) Retirement Plan, with up to a 5% company match.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO): Available to all fulltime employees beginning on the first day of fulltime employment. Accrual rates range from 5 to 30 days annually based on years of service.
  • Floating Holidays: Eligible employees receive 56 hours (equivalent to 7 days) of floating holidays to use at their discretion throughout the calendar year.
  • Annual Profit Sharing: Paid to all eligible employeeowners when PLS meets or exceeds its annual financial goals.
  • Health Insurance: Low to no cost coverage options for all employees working at least 30 hours per week.
  • Dental and Vision Insurance: Offered to all fulltime employees.
  • Life Insurance and Accidental Death and Dismemberment: Employees working 20 hours or more per week receive $20,000 in Life Insurance and Accidental Death and Dismemberment coverage at no cost.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): A free, confidential mental health counseling program available to all employees.
  • Voluntary Benefits: Employees working 20 hours or more per week may enroll in additional voluntary benefits, including Short and LongTerm Disability, Accident, and Critical Illness coverage.
  • Paid Group Activities: Paid admission to group events attended with clients, such as movies, sporting events, and field trips.
  • Paid Training and Certifications: Includes required and industryrecognized certifications such as Standard Precautions, First Aid and Choking, Fire Safety, and Medication Administration.

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