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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Appleton, WI

Chileda

Direct Support Professional-Menasha, WI

Menasha, WI · On-site

$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 ...

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:

MyPath

Direct Support Professional

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community. MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse ...

Mypath

Direct Support Professional

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community. MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse ...

Cornerstone Caregiving

Direct Support Professional

Allouez, WI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Schedule: 8AM to 4PM We are committed to providing exceptional care to individuals in need. Our caregivers are highly trained and compassionate, with a passion for making a positive impact in the ...

Cornerstone Caregiving

Direct Support Professional

De Pere, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Schedule: 8AM to 4PM We are committed to providing exceptional care to individuals in need. Our caregivers are highly trained and compassionate, with a passion for making a positive impact in the ...

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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 Aug 16, 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 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 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 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, with an average salary of $33,049 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional-Menasha, WI

Chileda Institute Inc.

Menasha, WI • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

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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