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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Rochester, MN

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Showing results 41-60

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$10

$16

$21

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 Rochester, MN is $16.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $17.84 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 Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,430 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

$16/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 239 rated social care providers


Job description

Looking for a job where you can make a real difference every day? As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at LSS, you’ll support people with identified needs as they pursue their hopes, dreams, and goals through personcentered care.

Pay:

  • $16.00/hr!
  • Upon completion of six months of consistent employment, there is an opportunity to obtain a wage increase to $16.50/hr! 
  • $1000 Hiring Bonus*

Shifts:

  • 4pm-9pm on weekdays
  • 12pm-8pm every other weekend

What You’ll Do:

  • Build meaningful relationships while providing guidance, encouragement, and support
  • Assist with daily living activities such as personal care, hygiene needs, meals, household support/cleaning, and transportation
  • Support community involvement, social connections, and independent living skills
  • Advocate for people with identified needs’ rights, needs, and preferences
  • Monitor health and wellbeing and report changes as needed
  • Complete required documentation and participate in training and team meetings

Work Environment:

  • Residential group home setting supporting up to 4 people with identified needs
  • Collaborative, missiondriven team focused on dignity, respect, and inclusion

The LSS Advantage: What We Offer Our Team Members

  • All team members have access to childcare assistance, discounts on events and services, a team member assistance program, financial counselling, a wellness program, and UKG Wallet which allows you to access your payroll dollars before payday!
  • Team members working 30+ hours a week have access to medical, dental, life, vision, 403(b) plan with a match, and other ancillary plans.
  • Generous PTO plan that includes paid holidays and float days.
  • Paid training during your orientation and throughout your employment.
  • Opportunities to grow your career at LSS within our 20+ different services.
  • A diverse workplace with an outstanding reputation for putting people served and team members first.
  • An ALIVE Workplace that is Supportive, Positive, Healthy and Fun!

The Skills, Heart, and Commitment You Bring to LSS

  • A genuine heart for helping others—a passion for supporting people with identified needs as they work toward their own hopes, dreams, and goals through personcentered care
  •  No prior experience or formal education required —we’ll provide the training and support you need to succeed
  •  Comfort with basic computer use to help document care and stay connected with the team
  •  Ability to read and write in English to ensure clear communication and quality support
  • A valid driver’s license and safe driving record, with the ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Check, so you can help people stay active and involved in their community
  • Ability to pass a DHS background check, creating a safe and trusted environment for those we serve

A DSP role is perfect for caregivers, PCAs, homemakers, home care providers, and resident assistants—or anyone with a passion for helping others. It’s also a great starting point for careers in social work, nursing, healthcare, human services, psychology, and nonprofits

*To be eligible for a hiring bonus you must meet the following requirements:  

  • 40% FTE or greater
  • Remain up to date on all trainings
  • Maintain employment in good standing
  • Work all scheduled shifts 

What Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota logo

About Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, based in Saint Paul, MN, U.S., is one of the largest nonprofit organizations in the state, operating since 1865. The company is dedicated to serving the less privileged and marginalized sectors of society and works in the non-profit organization management industry, focusing on social services. The services they provide include counselling, financial services, housing, and disability services amongst others. They firmly uphold their mission of “Expressing the love of Christ for all people through service that inspires hope, changes lives, and builds community.” Their belief in the potential of every individual propels the organization to continue to work on improving people's lives.

Industry

Non-profits

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1865

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