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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Appleton, WI

Mypath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Kaukauna, WI

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in ...

Mypath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Appleton, WI

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in ...

Mypath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Green Bay, WI

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in ...

MyPath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in ...

LSS of WI & UP MI

Support Professional

Appleton, WI · On-site

$19.75/hr

Adult Residential Support Professional - 3rd Shift Location: Grandstone/Eastwood, Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan Staff are assigned a primary home base but will work at both ...

LSS of WI & UP MI

Support Professional

Appleton, WI · On-site

$17.75/hr

Adult Residential Support Professional - 2nd Shift Location: Grandstone/Eastwood Facility, Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper MI. Staff will be assigned a primary home base, but they will work at ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Appleton, WI is $15.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $16.83 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
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Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,489 per year, or $15.6 per hour.
Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional

Cornerstone Caregiving

Green Bay, WI

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Cornerstone Caregiving rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

217th of 235 rated social care providers

Job description

We are committed to providing exceptional care to individuals in need. Our caregivers are highly trained and compassionate, with a passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others. With flexible scheduling, caring environment, competitive pay, bonus opportunities. Working as a caregiver at Cornerstone Caregiving is a fulfilling and rewarding experience. Join our team today and help make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Benefits

  • Flexible Schedule
  • In-home and facility shifts available (vary by location)
  • Immediate start
  • Benefits package
  • Competitive Pay
  • Caregiver referral bonuses (vary by location)
  • Caregiver appreciation prizes and drawings monthly
  • Paid weekly
  • Intervisit travel pay

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Medication reminders
  • Assisting with mobility in and around the house
  • Personal care/hygiene
  • Preparing meals
  • Light housekeeping
  • Companionship
  • + other duties

Qualifications and Skills

  • Caregiving experience
  • A passion to help others
  • Superior interpersonal skills
  • Effective communication skills
  • Unwavering patience
  • Willing to travel
  • Pass a background check

Desired Attributes

  • Sociable
  • Confident
  • Hardworking
  • Compassionate
  • Dependable
  • Trustworthy
  • Honorable

Competitive compensation based on experience.

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

What Cornerstone Caregiving employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom