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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Decatur, IL

Resident Aide

Monticello, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Weekends required Will consider experience as resident assistants (RA), direct support person (DSP), caregiver, and certified nurse assistants (C.N.A.) Benefits Offered to full-time staff * Medical ...

District Support Pharmacist

Sullivan, IL · On-site

$55 - $66/hr

As a DSP, you have a critical role at the forefront of delivering our purpose, modeling our values ... Supporting safe and accurate prescription fulfillment by following--and directing the pharmacy team ...

As a DSP, you have a critical role at the forefront of delivering our purpose, modeling our values ... Supporting safe and accurate prescription fulfillment by following-and directing the pharmacy team ...

District Support Pharmacist

Sullivan, IL · On-site

$55 - $66/hr

As a DSP, you have a critical role at the forefront of delivering our purpose, modeling our values ... Supporting safe and accurate prescription fulfillment by following--and directing the pharmacy team ...

New

Assisting direct support professionals with health-related training and providing or arranging specialized training for unique supports for individuals as needed. Communicates performance concerns to ...

Assisting direct support professionals with health-related training and providing or arranging specialized training for unique supports for individuals as needed. Communicates performance concerns to ...

Mental Health Professional

Decatur, IL · On-site

$49K - $64K/yr

GENERAL DESCRIPTION Under general direction of the Director of Behavioral Health Services, the Mental Health Professional provides mental health services and supports to persons served and families ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$9

$15

$20

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Decatur, IL is $15.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.02 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.
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Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,854 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (RBT)

Lighthouse Autism Center

Decatur, IL • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Lighthouse Autism Center rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

671st of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Description:

Are you looking for a fun, rewarding career dedicated to helping children reach their full potential? If so, we want YOU to join us as a RBT at Lighthouse Autism Center! As a RBT at Lighthouse, you will work with a team of rockstar clinicians and behavior analysts to provide high-quality, center-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children with autism. You'll receive all the training you need to play an integral role in helping children learn new skills and reach their goals. Join a team that is dedicated to living out Lighthouse's Core Values by being Compassionate, Trustworthy, Courageous, and Committed--and become a Lighthouse Legend!


Here are some of the awesome things you'll get to do as an RBT at Lighthouse:

  • Work one-on-one with kids (18 months to school age) to provide ABA therapy in a center-based approach.
  • Collaborate with a team of clinicians and behavior analysts to implement custom therapy plans unique to the needs of each child.
  • Use your creativity and enthusiasm in a play-based and naturalistic therapy setting.
  • Help children to progress in educational and social settings and prepare children to eventually transition to a more traditional school setting.
  • Track and document progress for each child as you implement custom therapy programs.
  • Be a part of a fun and supportive team that is dedicated to living out Lighthouse's Core Values.

What we bring:

  • Paid training to help ensure you are confident and successful as you earn your Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Certification and begin your career in ABA therapy. Additional training as you progress through our career levels.
  • Tuition reimbursement toward masters level education in a needed field. If you have the drive and desire, Lighthouse will be by your side all the way to BCBA Certification.
  • Competitive salary with opportunities for advancement and growth—in only 3 to 15 months, you could climb from Trainee to RBT Trainer with pay raises along the way!
  • Benefits that start on day one: health, dental, and vision insurance, $20,000 life insurance coverage at no cost to you, Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 401k retirement plan with company match after 30 days.
  • Generous time off: 3 weeks earned Paid Time Off (PTO) annually, 8 paid holidays per year, and paid parental leave.
  • Full time schedule, Monday through Friday, and 40+ hours per week.
  • No contractual obligation! We hope you stay because it’s a great place to work, not because you are contractually obligated to do so.
  • A supportive and fun work environment that is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children with autism and their families.

What you bring:

  • All applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent are welcome—a college degree is preferred but not required.
  • Experience working with children preferred but not required.
  • A passion for working with children with autism spectrum disorder and their families.
  • An eagerness to be a part of a caring and team-oriented company culture.
  • A deep commitment to show up every day and support a learner in their progress.

If you're ready to become a Lighthouse Legend and make a difference in the lives of children with autism, apply today!

Requirements:
  • Lifting/Carrying more than 50 lbs. Able to sustain impact to body (i.e., being hit, etc.) in any area. Running, crouching, squatting, and ability to kneel for sustained periods of time. Bending at the waist to touch knees and/or toes. Full range of motion of hands and arms. Sitting on the floor and chair for long periods of time. Ability to move quickly from standing to seated, or kneeling position, without support. Communicate expressively and receptively both verbally and written.
  • Reliable transportation and a valid driver's license preferred.
  • Important Note: Safety is a priority at Lighthouse. You will undergo a background check and drug test at the time of hire.

What Lighthouse Autism Center employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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Lighthouse Autism Center logo

About Lighthouse Autism Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lighthouse Autism Center provides year-round therapeutic intervention for children with autism based on the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Gregg and Sandy Maggioli are parents of a child with autism. Together they founded and opened Lighthouse Autism Center in 2012 to achieve their mission of ensuring each child reaches their full potential. We offer hope for every child, every family.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Mishawaka, IN, US

Year founded

2012