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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Normal, IL

Villas of Holly Brook

Resident Aide

Bloomington, 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 ...

Villas of Holly Brook

Resident Aide

Bloomington, 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 ...

Villas of Holly Brook

Resident Aide

Bloomington, 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 ...

Marcfirst

Mental Health Professional

Normal, IL · On-site

$23/hr

Lifelong Access is seeking a Mental Health Professional (MHP) . In this position, will work to ... of direct support which are identified in each clients' individualized treatment plans. We are ...

VistaCare

Part Time Registered Nurse

Lincoln, IL · On-site

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 ...

Vista Care

Part Time Registered Nurse

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$30/hr

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 ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Normal, IL

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Normal, IL salary details

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Normal, IL is $15.92, 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 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 Normal, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Normal, IL are:
What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs? Cities near Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, and 41% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,114 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional, Weekends Only

Lifelong Access

Normal, IL • On-site

$18.35/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Our mission at Lifelong Access is to connect individuals with developmental disabilities to their community by helping them break down barriers through a lifetime of meaningful supports. From birth to end of life, Lifelong Access provides a continuum of services and supports for families, children, teens, and adults including residential housing, vocational development, supported employment, high school transition, behavioral health counseling and services, and a wide variety of pediatric therapy supports. Guided by our Core Values, our team members have a strong drive and big hearts for improving the lives of others; a place where we support each other and the individuals who put their trust in us.

Lifelong Access is seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to work in our Supported Living program. DSPs provide the necessary supports and services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) where they live and work. Direct Service Professionals (DSPs) are an integral part of life in the community for individuals with IDD, working directly with individuals to provide support. DSPs will follow each individual’s Person Center Plan (PCP) and Implementation Strategy for all supports provided. DSPs provide assistance with services meant to increase independence and overall life fulfillment, such as daily living activities including personal care, household tasks, transportation, and skill building.

Pay:                $18.35/hour (plus $0.50/hour pay increase once med authorization training is completed)
Job Type:       Part time opportunities available

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED 
  • Desire to make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities, with relevant work and/or volunteering experience preferred 
  • Attention to detail, especially when adhering to specific protocols and rules while carefully following instructions to care for the needs of the individual supported 
  • Must demonstrate a high level of Integrity to ensure individuals supported to feel safe, comfortable, and treated with dignity when tending to personal activities such as bathing assistance and toileting 
  • Must demonstrate a high level of trustworthiness and reliability 
  • Strong interpersonal skills when working with co-workers and supported individuals, including demonstrating compassion and sensitivity to a supported individual’s emotional needs when they are in extreme distress or pain 
  • Must either possess CPR and First Aid certification or be willing and able to complete certification  
  • Must be at least 18 years of age 
  • Valid Illinois driver’s license with safe driving record 
  • Current proof of automobile insurance 

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk; and sit. The employee will also frequently need to converse with adults – some who might be difficult to understand. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, bend, push, pull, reach, and walk for periods of time. Must occasionally be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and distance vision.

The working environment for this job is a changing one that adjusts to the needs of the individuals supported. The environment may at times be fast paced with interruptions, distractions, and deadlines. DSPs need to be flexible and be able to adjust to changing needs or activities. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The employee may be required to work evenings, weekends and/or holidays to accommodate the needs of individuals being supported.

Here are some of the benefits we will offer you:

  • Supportive, positive, and friendly team environment
  • Professional development, training, and advancement opportunities
  • Flexible schedule options
  • Comprehensive benefit plans
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, personal time, and holidays
  • Read more in our Employment Brochure

Lifelong Access is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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