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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Racine, WI

Direct Support Professional

Beach Park, IL

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) (Nonprofit / Social Services / Healthcare / Transitional Living Programs / DD Residences, TLPs, CILAs) The Personality Have you cared for a loved one and found it ...

Direct Support Professional

Waukegan, IL

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) (Nonprofit / Social Services / Healthcare / Transitional Living Programs / DD Residences, TLPs, CILAs) The Personality Have you cared for a loved one and found it ...

Direct Support Professional

Grayslake, IL

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) (Nonprofit / Social Services / Healthcare / Transitional Living Programs / DD Residences, TLPs, CILAs) The Personality Have you cared for a loved one and found it ...

Overview We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join Prader-Willi Homes that has open availability to work 1st and 2nd shifts! Competitive pay starting at ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Racine, WI salary details

$9

$15

$19

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Racine, WI is $15.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Racine, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Racine, WI are:
What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs? Cities near Racine, WI with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Racine, WI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,760 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Full-time

Aspire of Illinois

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$20.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Are you a caring and motivated individual? Do you enjoy building relationships and contributing to a positive environment? Do you have a passion for helping individuals develop their independence and achieve personal goals? Are you looking for a career with a purpose?
If so, apply to join the Aspire team as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) today! We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. As a DSP, you will provide person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) homes, in their daily lives. This role plays a crucial part in promoting independence, community integration, and overall well-being for individuals receiving services, by supporting their personal needs, encouraging respectful interactions with others, and creating a positive living environment.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist individuals with daily living activities such as personal care, hygiene, dressing, meal preparation, and housekeeping.
  • Support individuals in accessing community resources, including social, recreational, and employment opportunities.
  • Drive adult individuals to doctor appointments, to and from work, and various errands (company provided vehicle)
  • Encourage and assist with skill-building activities designed to promote independence and personal growth.
  • Implement individualized care plans developed by case managers and healthcare professionals.
  • Provide emotional support and foster positive relationships with individuals.
  • Document individuals care and/or clinical plan and report any significant changes in the individual's behavior, health, or well-being.
  • Monitor the health and safety of individuals, ensuring that proper protocols are followed in emergency situations.
  • Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations related to disability services and support.
  • Attend regular staff meetings, training sessions, and performance evaluations.
  • Maintain a positive, respectful, inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals in your care.
  • Serve as a liaison to represent Aspire in the community
  • Additional duties as assigned

Qualifications:
  • Proof of High school diploma or GED required; additional training or certification in social work, healthcare, or related field preferred.
  • Valid driver's license with a good driving record for the past 5 years and reliable transportation.
  • Prior experience in direct care, working with individuals with disabilities, or in a similar role.
  • Technologically savvy or the ability to use technology effectively, including computers, mobile devices, and software for documentation or communication purposes.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to develop rapport with individuals.
  • Compassionate, patient, and respectful demeanor.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Must pass required criminal background checks
  • Have and present in-person original copies of required I9 documents

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift, move, and assist individuals in a safe and respectful manner.
  • Ability to stand, sit, or kneel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to perform tasks that require manual dexterity and strength (e.g., assisting with mobility or personal care tasks).

We offer:
$20.50 - $21.50/hour (depending on experience)
Sign-on bonuses for full-time ($1,500) (paid out in three installments over 6 months)
Referral bonuses
Paid training
Retirement plan with matching contributions
Health and insurance benefits (hours requirement)
Paid time off benefits
And more! (see benefits list below)
At Aspire our values inspire our belief in the power of possible; we empower others to achieve their dreams, lend a hand to others, embrace diversity and celebrate belonging, seek feedback from others to improve, and show respect and build trust.
Aspire has entry-level full-time positions available. We consider all applicants who meet the minimum requirements listed above. Apply to join our team if you are just entering or returning to the workforce, have limited experience or education. We provide the training!
Voted as one of the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for in Chicago!
We know that Together, We're Better!
Aspire was founded in 1960 and is recognized as a leader in providing bold, pioneering, and uncompromising services to adults with developmental disabilities, their families, and the community. In 2019, we joined forces with NorthPointe Resources to be one of the most recognized and respected disability service providers across the Chicago metropolitan area, Lake County (Illinois), and southeastern Wisconsin areas.
Benefits at Aspire (a waiting period applies for some benefits):
Full Time (regularly scheduled to work at least 37.5 hours per week):
  • Health Insurance (including dental and vision)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Benefit Time (Vacation, Sick, Personal)
  • 13 Paid Holidays
  • 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
  • Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Pet insurance
  • Other voluntary Insurances available

Aspire's priority is keeping our team members and participants healthy and safe. PPE is provided and regular cleaning and disinfecting regiments are followed to maintain a safe work and living environment. Hand sanitizer is available throughout our facilities.
Aspire is an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Aspire is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities so that an applicant may complete the essential functions of a position. The essential functions of positions are outlined in a position's job description. To request an accommodation or if you have a question regarding what the essential functions of a position are please contact the People Team at 708.497.4573.
Salary Description
$20.50-$21.50