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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Decatur, GA

Lowe's Guardian Angel

DSP- Eunice

Riverdale, GA · On-site

$15/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide essential services to individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental health needs, assisting with home-related ...

Devereux

Direct Support Professional

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$20/hr

As a Direct Support Professional at Devereux, you will learn more than you ever thought possible while you work with other dedicated professionals who share your passion for helping kids in a Mental ...

Devereux

Direct Support Professional

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$20/hr

As a Direct Support Professional at Devereux, you will learn more than you ever thought possible while you work with other dedicated professionals who share your passion for helping kids in a Mental ...

Devereux

Direct Support Professional

Kennesaw, GA

$20/hr

As a Direct Support Professional at Devereux, you will learn more than you ever thought possible while you work with other dedicated professionals who share your passion for helping kids in a Mental ...

Devereux

Direct Support Professional

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$20/hr

As a Direct Support Professional at Devereux, you will learn more than you ever thought possible while you work with other dedicated professionals who share your passion for helping kids in a Mental ...

Devereux

Direct Support Professional

Kennesaw, GA

$20/hr

As a Direct Support Professional at Devereux, you will learn more than you ever thought possible while you work with other dedicated professionals who share your passion for helping kids in a Mental ...

Lowe's Guardian Angel

DSP- Eunice S/S 8PM

Riverdale, GA · On-site

$15/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide essential services to individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental health needs, assisting with home-related ...

Help at Home

Direct Support Professional

Marietta, GA

$14 - $17/hr

Join Our Team at Help at Home as a Direct Support Professional! At Help at Home, we value our employees and offer competitive pay starting at $14.00 per hour, professional development opportunities ...

Help at Home

Direct Support Professional

Covington, GA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Join Our Team at Help at Home as a Direct Support Professional! At Help at Home, we value our employees and offer competitive pay starting at $14.00 per hour, professional development opportunities ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Decatur, GA

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Decatur, GA salary details

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

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Decatur, GA is $15.90, 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 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 are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Decatur, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA 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 Decatur, GA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,069 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

DSP- Eunice

Riverdale, GA • On-site

Lowe's Guardian Angel
See more jobs at Lowe's Guardian Angelexternal

$15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living, health monitoring, and community participation as outlined in individual care plans.

  • Perform light housekeeping duties to maintain cleanliness and proper upkeep of living spaces.

  • Monitor individuals' health and safety, report changes, and assist in medical appointments.

Job description

Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide essential services to individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental health needs, assisting with home-related activities, personal care, and community integration. DSPs are responsible for enhancing the well-being of individuals through tasks such as housekeeping, personal care, and daily support, all while promoting independence.


Key Responsibilities: 


Personal Care & Support:
- Assist with activities of daily living including bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
- Provide support with medication administration and health monitoring.
- Assist in nutrition, meal preparation, and feeding when necessary.
- Help individuals develop daily living skills and promote independence according to their Service Plan (ISP/POC).
- Provide positive behavioral support and communication assistance.
- Participate in activities within the home and community as outlined in individual care plans.


Housekeeping & Home Maintenance:
- Light housekeeping duties such as vacuuming, mopping, laundry, and dishwashing.
- Ensure cleanliness and proper upkeep of living spaces, including regular trash removal, bed linen changes, and refrigerator clean-up.


Health & Safety:
- Monitor individuals' health and safety, report any changes in condition to the supervisor, and assist in medical appointments.
- Promote personal hygiene and safe living practices.
- Apply first aid in case of accidents or illness.
- Ensure medical equipment is properly maintained and operable.


Documentation & Reporting:
- Maintain accurate records of daily activities, progress notes, and health monitoring (MAR tracking, bowel movements, etc.).
- Report any suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation to relevant authorities and supervisors.
- Contribute to the development and evaluation of the individual’s ISP/POC.


Qualifications:


Education & Experience:
- Minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
- Must have 2 or more years of experience working with individuals who have a dual diagnosis (Mental Illness and Developmental Disability).
Licensing & Certification:
- Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) license required to perform personal care tasks.
- Current certifications in CPR/First Aid/AED.
- Must pass criminal background checks (local and Cogent) and provide a satisfactory TB screening upon employment and annually thereafter.
- CPI certification required.


Other Requirements:
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Valid Georgia driver’s license with a clean 7-year driving record.
- Authorization to work in the United States.
- Ability to lift at least 50 pounds independently and perform physically demanding tasks such as standing, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.
- Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.
- Annual physical required within one year of employment and annually thereafter.


Additional Duties:

- Transport individuals to and from community services and activities.
- Complete required training within the first 60 days and annual training thereafter.
- Uphold the ethical standards of the Department of Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), Department of Human Resources (DHR), and Health Facility Regulations (HFR).