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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Three Rivers, MI is $15.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $16.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Is being a direct support professional a stressful job?

Being a direct support professional can be stressful due to the physical and emotional demands of assisting individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging behaviors, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find it rewarding and develop coping strategies to manage stress effectively.

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, such as direct support worker, behavioral technician, residential care aide, or personal care assistant. These jobs typically involve helping clients with daily activities, implementing care plans, and supporting independence in community or residential settings. Certification often enhances employment prospects and may be required by employers or state regulations.

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 salary levels, with some states or cities offering premium pay for specialized skills or longer tenure.

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Three Rivers, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Three Rivers, MI are:

What cities near Three Rivers, MI are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Three Rivers, MI 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 Three Rivers, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,238 per year, or $15 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Caregiver

Elkhart, IN • On-site

Dungarvin
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 5 - 10K employees

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 244 rated social care providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Paid breaks

Learn more about Dungarvinexternal

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Company Description

Who We Are? 

At Dungarvin, we are more than a provider of support services—we’re a mission-driven team rooted in respect, response and choice. Since 1976, we’ve been dedicated to meeting people where they are, working alongside them to provide person centered supports that allow people to live independently as possible. You’ll work directly with people in need of assistance, and/or living with intellectual or developmental disabilities, or other complex medical needs.

With services nationally, our team is united by a shared commitment to making a real difference—one person, one voice, one choice at a time. We encourage you to embrace this opportunity to impact someone’s life.

                                   Join our Team as a Direct Support Professional!

Schedule: 2nd Shift and Overnights

Wage: $15.50/hr-$16.75/hr

Company Perks/Benefits:

  • Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance for FT employees
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Flex Spending and HSA Accounts for FT employees
  • Pet Insurance
  • Life Insurance for FT employees
  • 401 K plan with up to  3% employer match after one year of services
  • PAID TIME OFF (PTO) for eligible employees
  • PTO Donation
  • Growth and Development Opportunities
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • National Brand Discounts
  • Tapcheck - access to 50% of your pay before payday
  • PAID training and orientation
Job Description

What You Get To Do:

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) caregiver provides direct support, positive direction, instruction, and assistance to individuals with mental, intellectual & developmental, and physical disabilities.  The ultimate goal is to empower individuals with disabilities to live as independently and comfortably as possible while maintaining their dignity and respect.

  • Provide hands-on assistance, encouragement, mentoring, and guidance.
  • Ensure the comfort, safety, and personal growth of the individuals we serve.
  • Perform housekeeping and laundry duties
  • Assist with daily living tasks such as moving around, getting in and out of bed, dressing, bathing, toileting, personal hygiene and more.

 Why This Role:

  • Personal fulfillment, a meaningful career, and the chance to make a difference.
  • Positively impact someone’s life. 
  • Gain health care experience to further your career.
  • Reliable work schedule.
  • Varied day-to-day experiences; no two days are the same.
Qualifications

What Makes You A Great Fit: 

  • Person-centered, patient, and kind
  • Dependable, adaptable, flexible
  • Observant and detail oriented
  • Positive role-model for others and able to work on a team
  • Committed to creating a respectful and collaborative environment
  • Computer skills for documentation
  • 18 years or older
  • A successful background clearance is required as part of the onboarding/employment process 
  • Good communication is key in this role. You’ll rely on your reading, writing, and communication skills to document care, follow support plans, and collaborate with both internal and external team members. 

Additional Information

At Dungarvin, diversity and inclusion are a part of what makes our organization strong. Together, we can continue to work towards an inclusive culture that supports our employees and persons served. Dungarvin is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer.

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About Dungarvin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Mendota Heights, MN, US

Year founded

1976

Social media

Facebook

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What Dungarvin employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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