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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Meridian, MS

Help at Home

Direct Support Professional

Newton, MS · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Veteran-friendly employer - we value your service and skills Become a Help at Home Hero TODAY!  As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you'll provide one-on-one support to individuals with ...

Help at Home

Direct Support Professional

Meridian, MS

$13 - $15/hr

Veteran-friendly employer - we value your service and skills Become a Help at Home Hero TODAY!  As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you'll provide one-on-one support to individuals with ...

Help at Home

Direct Support Professional

Newton, MS

$13 - $15/hr

Veteran-friendly employer - we value your service and skills Become a Help at Home Hero TODAY!  As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you'll provide one-on-one support to individuals with ...

Help at Home

Direct Support Professional

Meridian, MS · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Veteran-friendly employer - we value your service and skills Become a Help at Home Hero TODAY!  As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you'll provide one-on-one support to individuals with ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Meridian, MS

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Meridian, MS salary details

$9

$15

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Meridian, MS is $15.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $17.21 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 Meridian, MS look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Meridian, MS are:
What cities near Meridian, MS are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs? Cities near Meridian, MS 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 Meridian, MS as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,224 per year, or $16 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Help at Home

Newton, MS • On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Other

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Help At Home rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 180 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 239 rated social care providers

Job description

Help at Home is hiring Direct Support Professionals in your community TODAY! 

Help at Home is hiring caring and dependable caregivers to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and communities. Start your career with the nation’s leading provider of in-home support to seniors and become a hero for someone in your community. Pay ranges from $13 - $15 an hour. We offer weekly pay!


Why should you join Help at Home? 

  • Flexible schedules that fit your life
  • Competitive pay - starting pay ranges from $13 - $15/hour (can vary based on type of care)
  • Paid training and career growth opportunities
  • Health benefits, paid time off, and cash bonuses
  • Work that truly matters - helping people live with dignity and independence
  • 40+ years of trusted care experience
  • Veteran-friendly employer - we value your service and skills


Become a Help at Home Hero TODAY!  

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you’ll provide one-on-one support to individuals with developmental disabilities, both at home and in their community, helping them live as independently as possible.

Your work may include:

  • Supporting individuals with daily living skills such as cooking, cleaning, personal care (i.e. grooming, hygiene, etc.), or transportation
  • Encouraging participation in social and community activities such as shopping, social events, etc.
  • Helping people achieve personal goals and celebrating progress
  • Promoting choice, independence, and self-advocacy
  • Accurately documenting care, activities, and progress
  • Communicating with team members to ensure consistent, quality support


Eligibility Requirements: 

  • At least 18 years old
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Successful background check and required training
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation with proof of insurance (primary or secondary)
  • Ability to work safely and respectfully in clients’ homes and communities
  • Compassion, reliability, and a desire to make a positive impact


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and/or autism, including implementing Individual Activity Support Plans (ASP) and Plans of Service and Supports (PSS).
  • Experience using foundational behavior-support strategies such as redirection, visual prompting, and environmental modification.


Caregivers must comply with state background screening requirements. Compensation, benefits, time off and bonuses vary by state and location, so please ask for complete details at your interview.  

Data Security and Privacy Statement

At Help at Home, we prioritize protecting your personal information during the hiring process. We comply with all relevant data privacy regulations, including HIPAA and SOX where applicable. Your data will only be used to assess your employment suitability and won't be shared with unauthorized parties.

We use strong security measures to protect your information from unauthorized access or disclosure. By submitting your application, you consent to this process. You can access, modify, or request deletion of your data by contacting us.

Employees must adhere to our data protection policies and legal requirements to safeguard sensitive information.

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