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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

SLI

Direct Support Professional

Topeka, KS

$14 - $22/hr

Direct Support Professional Jump into a meaningful, people-first role as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), where you'll help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live more ...

Equi-Venture Farms LLC

Direct Support Professional

Topeka, KS · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll be at the heart of this mission, providing compassionate care and support that empowers our participants to thrive. Our family-owned business is rooted in ...

AbleLight

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver

Gardner, KS · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Work as a Direct Support Professional / DSP / Caregiver with a Non-Profit that cares! Provide Support, Build Relationships, and Make a Difference! At AbleLight, people are the heart of everything we ...

ablelight

DSP / Direct Support Professional

Gardner, KS

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Gardner Direct Support Professionals, DSP's, Caregivers are all terms that can be used synonymously. These are the talented individuals that we are always keeping an eye out for, who take the best ...

Ablelight

DSP / Direct Support Professional

Gardner, KS · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Gardner Direct Support Professionals, DSP's, Caregivers are all terms that can be used synonymously. These are the talented individuals that we are always keeping an eye out for, who take the best ...

ablelight

DSP / Direct Support Professional

Gardner, KS · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Gardner Direct Support Professionals, DSP's, Caregivers are all terms that can be used synonymously. These are the talented individuals that we are always keeping an eye out for, who take the best ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Parsons, KS · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Sevita Health

Caregiver

Manhattan, KS · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Sevita Health

Caregiver

Parsons, KS · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Parsons, KS · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Sevita Health

Caregiver

Manhattan, KS · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Sevita Health

Caregiver

Bel Aire, KS · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Mosaic

Direct Support Professional

Liberal, KS · On-site

$14.04/hr

We're looking for Direct Support Professionals to join our team! As a DSP, you will provide support and guidance to people served as they learn and develop important daily living skills and life ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Kansas salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Kansas is $14.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $15.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional?

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 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 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.

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. States or areas with a strong focus on healthcare, social services, or specialized care often offer higher pay rates for this role. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence salary levels.
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Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,208 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Olathe, KS

LAKEMARY CENTER INC
Offices of Mental Health Practitioners • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about LAKEMARY CENTER INCexternal

$19.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional 

$19.25 an hour

  • Evening Hours-  2:30-10:30 PM 
  • Overnight Hours-10:30 PM- 8:30 AM 

About Us:

Lakemary has been a leader in providing individualized services for children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and other intellectual/developmental differences. Our distinguished, nationally recognized programs and services touch the lives of more than 450 people and their families from all over the United States.

Job Description:

In this role you will support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the residential environment primarily during evening hours.

Direct Support Professionals Responsibilities:

  • Provide direction and supervision on ground and in the community.
  • Respond to requests and inquiries from others as appropriate.
  • Understand and follow instructions provided by supervisor(s).
  • Intervene in crisis situations, including physical management of persons served, using approved crisis management system and skills.
  • Keep the work environment safe, clean, and orderly.
  • Complete all documentation by the end of shift.

Direct Support Professional Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED or equivalent
  • Due to Insurance criteria be at least 18+ years of age
  • Valid drivers license
  • Acceptable Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) to meet standard driving requirements
  • Preferred direct care experience
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of persons served and staff.
  • Utilize time management skills.
  • Interpret, apply and explain applicable rules and regulations.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
    • Reliability
    • Honesty & integrity
    • Good communication & problem-solving skills

Apply