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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Appleton, WI

Chileda

Direct Support Professional-Menasha, WI

Menasha, WI

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL-MENASHA, WI MISSION: "Chileda's mission is to improve the quality of ... DSP modification procedures as outlined in the Positive Behavior Support Plan (PBPS) and work on ...

New

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Appleton, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Appleton, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Innovative Care Services

In Home Caregiver

Appleton, WI · On-site

$15/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Shifts Available: Part-time Compensation: $15.00/hr About Us: At Innovative Care Services we're dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Appleton, WI

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 20, 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-Menasha, WI

Direct Support Professional-Menasha, WI

Chileda

Menasha, WI

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

New

Chileda rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL-MENASHA, WI

MISSION: "Chileda's mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with cognitive and behavior challenges. Chileda's goal is to help students increase their appropriate social behaviors and develop independent living skills, through an enriched learning environment and individualized behavior programming. Chileda's population includes children and young adults with special needs including Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury, Attachment Challenges, related developmental delays, and intensive behavioral needs."

SUMMARY: DSPs work directly with our students to teach important life skills including educational, leisure, activities of daily living (ADLs), social and communication skills, and verbal and physical behavior intervention . DSP modification procedures as outlined in the Positive Behavior Support Plan (PBPS) and work on Treatment Plan and IEP goals with the student using Therapeutic Care.

REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

  • Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must demonstrate behavioral skills and judgment conducive to role modeling appropriate skills for students.
  • Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred.

JOB DUTIES:

  • Use a Trauma Informed Approach by communicating with and about students in a respectful, positive, and age- appropriate manner while consistently using a therapeutic tone even in high stress situations
  • Encourage individuality of students by allowing self-expression and opportunities to make choices throughout their day.
  • Before the end of assigned shift the following must be completed: record behavior data, goals and communication logs of all assigned students, complete Emergency Intervention Forms (EIFs), Incident Reports (IRs), or Employee Accident Reports.
  • Communicate with house/classroom leads when there is an incident or emergency intervention.
  • Participate in debriefing, and check out with house lead or classroom prior to leaving before your shift, ensuring all chores, data, and forms are completed.
  • Review expectations with students prior to transitions, activities, or events.

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