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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Right at Home

Direct Support Professional

Lakewood, OH · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

) **Direct Support Professional****Job Summary:**Right at Home Cleveland West, a leading provider of in-home care and assistance, is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional to ...

Right at Home

Direct Support Professional

North Olmsted, OH · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

) **Direct Support Professional****Job Title:** Direct Support Professional**Job Location:** North Olmsted, Ohio, United States**Company Name:** Right at Home Cleveland West**Company Slogan:** "In Home ...

EMPOWERING ANGELS LLC

Direct Support professional

Oberlin, OH · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support Professional -- Personal Care Specialist Join our compassionate team as a Direct Support Professional and make a real difference every day. You'll provide hands-on personal care and ...

EMPOWERING ANGELS LLC

Direct Support professional

Oberlin, OH · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support Professional -- Personal Care Specialist Join our compassionate team as a Direct Support Professional and make a real difference every day. You'll provide hands-on personal care and ...

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See Ohio salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Ohio is $15.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.68 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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For Direct Support Professional jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Ohio are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,201 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Shines Support Ltd

Bedford, OH

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Location: Cuyahoga County

Employment Type: PRN or Part-time (10–20 hrs/weekly)

Compensation: $13–$19 per hour based on experience and schedule

Schedule: rotating shifts; flexible hours including evenings/weekends

Travel: Required throughout Cuyahoga County

Job Description

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) , you will provide person-centered support to individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) in their home and in the community.

This is not a home health aide or home sitter position — a Direct Support Professional (DSP) mission is to empower individuals through direct coaching, self advocacy, and to support individuals in building skills, achieving goals, and increasing their independence.

✅ Key Responsibilities:

● Deliver direct professional assistance to individuals with DD in cultivating independence, mastering vocational skills, and fostering meaningful community integration.

● Follow and implement Individual Service Plans (ISPs) tailored to each person’s support services.

● Complete accurate and timely documentation (within 24 hours) of services provided and client progress.

● Maintain and promote the rights, dignity, and choices of each individual served.

● Assist with administrative tasks (e.g. completing reports, preparing documents) as needed.

What We’re Looking For:

● Passionate about empowering individuals with disabilities

● Responsible and able to manage time effectively across multiple client sites

● Strong communicators—both verbally and in writing

● Flexible and adaptable to a rotating, community-based schedule

● Tech-savvy and comfortable using a smartphone, tablet, or laptop for documentation

Minimum Qualifications:

● Age 18 or older

● High school diploma or GED

● CPR (required)

● At least 1 year of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities (volunteer work, internships, or care giving roles)

● Valid Ohio driver’s license, active auto insurance, and reliable transportation

● Clean criminal background and drug-free lifestyle

● Ability to work independently and as part of a team

● Availability for rotating shifts, including evenings and weekends

What You’ll Need

● Your own smartphone, laptop, or tablet for documentation

● A willingness to drive within Cuyahoga County

● A collaborative mindset and a passion for inclusive support

Preferred Qualities

● Interest in a future career in social work, education, vocational rehab, or psychology

● Experience in community employment, coaching, or peer support

● Familiarity with person-centered planning or trauma informed care 

Compensation & Schedule

● Part-Time or Per Diem (10–20 hours/week): $13/hour - $19/hour 

● Mileage reimbursement for personal vehicle use

● Flexible scheduling, based on clients needs