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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Florida is $12.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.77 and $13.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. They help with personal care, medication management, meal preparation, and transportation, while also supporting clients in achieving personal goals and participating in community activities. DSPs play a vital role in promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life for those they support.

What are some common challenges Direct Support Professionals face when supporting individuals with disabilities, and how can they effectively handle them?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral outbursts, ensuring effective communication with nonverbal individuals, and balancing the need for independence with safety. Handling these situations requires patience, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills. Many DSPs find it helpful to use individualized behavior support plans, maintain clear communication with team members, and participate in ongoing training. Building trust and understanding the unique needs of each individual also play a key role in overcoming daily challenges.

What is the difference between Direct Support Professional vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support ProfessionalPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized trainingCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProviding personal care in private homes or facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome care agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, often requiring similar certifications like CPR and First Aid. However, Direct Support Professionals typically work in community or residential settings supporting people with disabilities, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal care services in private homes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the role that best matches their skills and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Support Professional, 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, incident reporting tools, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and empathy are crucial soft skills for effectively supporting individuals and building trust. These skills are vital for ensuring client safety, promoting independence, and delivering compassionate care tailored to each individual's needs.

What Is a Direct Support Professional?

Direct support professionals (DSPs) provide non-medical care and services to intellectually or physically disabled persons. These services may be in the patient's home, at assisted living facilities, or in government institutions. The primary duties of DSPs are to help the patient with everyday tasks, such as taking medication, providing transportation to doctor's appointments, and running errands. DSPs also aim to teach patients life skills, including light housework and meal preparation, to enable them to be a little more independent.

More about Direct Support Professional jobs
What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Florida? For Direct Support Professional jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $25,312 per year, or $12.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Blount Support Services, Inc

Orange Park, FL

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Make a Difference as a Direct Support Professional with Blount Support Services, Inc.

Are you passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in your community? At Blount Support Services, Inc., we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals in need. Located in Orange Park, FL, we are looking for a compassionate and experienced Direct Support Professional to join our team and help us continue our mission of service.

What You'll Do

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll play a vital role in improving the quality of life for those we serve. Your responsibilities will include:

  • Assisting individuals with daily living activities, including personal care and hygiene.
  • Supporting individuals in achieving their personal goals and fostering independence.
  • Providing companionship and emotional support to clients.
  • Helping with household tasks such as meal preparation and light cleaning.
  • Ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for those in your care.
  • Documenting daily activities and progress to maintain accurate records.
What We're Looking For

To thrive in this role, you should bring:

  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar role or related field.
  • A genuine passion for helping others and a caring, patient demeanor.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Reliability, professionalism, and a commitment to high-quality care.
Why Join Us?

At Blount Support Services, Inc., we value the dedication and compassion of our team members. While we do not currently offer additional benefits, we provide a supportive and rewarding work environment where you can truly make a difference in the lives of others. Our team is built on the principles of respect, integrity, and a shared commitment to serving our community.

Ready to Apply?

If you're ready to bring your skills and heart to a team that values your contributions, we want to hear from you! Join Blount Support Services, Inc., and help us continue to make a meaningful impact in Orange Park, FL. Apply today and start your journey toward a fulfilling career as a Direct Support Professional!


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