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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Columbus, MS

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

Information Technology Professional (IT/CTN/IS) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

Information Technology Professional (IT/CTN/IS) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

Information Technology Professional (IT/CTN/IS) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

Information Technology Professional (IT/CTN/IS) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

Information Technology Professional (IT/CTN/IS) Category / Component: Enlisted Both Overview ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Columbus, MS salary details

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Columbus, MS is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.16 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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Columbus, MS look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Columbus, MS are:

What cities near Columbus, MS are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Columbus, MS with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Columbus, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,099 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Rolling Hills Developmental Center

Starkville, MS โ€ข On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL [DSP]

SEEKING WEEKEND WARRIOR DSP - WORK 32 HOURS GET PAID 36! 

BASIC FUNCTION

Provides supervision and direct care services and training to individuals, including training in skills development.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1.       Conduct, document, and assist with programs and activities for each individual, as specified by the Individualized Support Plans.  (ISP)

2.       Supervise, observe, account for, and interact appropriately with individuals.

3.       Provide personal care and assistance to individuals.

4.       Document as required, i.e., data pertaining to individuals’ care, clothing inventories, self-help programs, accident reports, behavior reports, etc.

5.       Perform required housekeeping duties and related tasks in an acceptable manner.

6.       Follow daily work schedule and /or supervisor’s instruction.

7.       Treat everyone with dignity and respect.

8.       Assist other staff in an effective, professional, cooperative manner when working with them to ensure a pleasant workplace environment for everyone.

9.       Perform other duties, as assigned by supervisor.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

1.       Ensure proper level of supervision for individuals.

2.       Ensure each individual is protected from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

3.       Participate in in-service education.

EXPOSURE RISK

High risk of exposure to blood and body fluids when actively performing duties.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Reports directly to Shift Supervisor  Also takes direction from the QIDP of caseload.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None

QUALIFICATIONSEDUCATION

Must have minimum, a high school diploma or equivalency.

EXPERIENCE

No experience required, on-the-job training provided.

WORKING CONDITIONS

1.       Sitting, standing bending, lifting, pushing, pulling, and moving intermittently during working hours.

2.       Works in assigned areas of the facility.

3.       Subject to frequent interruptions.

4.       Willingness to work beyond normal working hours, and in other positions temporarily, when necessary.

5.       Attend and participate in continuing educational programs.

6.       Subject to cuts, bruises, falls, burns from equipment, odors, etc.

7.       May be subjected to infectious diseases, substances, etc.

8.       Communications with nurse personnel and other department personnel.

9.       May be required to work in cramped spaces.

10.   May be required to work in adverse weather conditions.

11.   Required to be ON-CALL for emergency situations.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

1.       Must be able to read, write speak the English language.

2.       Perform and/or assist other staff in an effective, professional, cooperative manner when

working in conjunction with supervisor, peers, and professional or supportive staff, in all duties required to provide quality care/programs in a pleasant environment for individuals.

3.       Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, individuals, visitors, family, etc.

4.       Must be of good moral character.

5.       Must be able to follow written and oral instructions.

6.       Must have the ability to work harmoniously with other personnel, as well as, be willing to

       work with individuals regardless of their maturity level or functioning level.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS    (With or without the aid of mechanical devices)

1.       Must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday.

2.       Must be able to sit, stand, bend, and lift without assistance at least 25 pounds.

3.       Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language in an understandable manner.

4.       Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.

5.       Must possess sight/hearing senses, or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function

      adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met.

6.       Must be in good general health and demonstrate emotional stability.

7.       May be required to lift, push, and pull.

8.       May be required to lift equipment, supplies, etc.

9.       Must have personal integrity, have flexibility, and the ability to work effectively with other

      personnel.

9.   Must be able to relate to and work with ill, disabled, elderly, emotionally upset, and at times,

      hostile individuals, family members, visitors, etc.

10. Must function independently, have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work

      effectively with individuals, personnel, and support agencies.

11. Must maintain good grooming and personal hygiene skills and appearance.

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