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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

Ability Plus Inc

House Coordinator/Floater

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Madison/HuntsvilleJob SummaryResponsible for the training/supervision of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and hands-on care and supervision of care of intellectually disabled individuals as ...

Ametek

Director of Marketing

Huntsville, AL

As the Director of Marketing, you will have a strategic global leadership role responsible for ... Set clear goals and expectations, provide regular timely feedback, and support professional ...

TriVector Services Inc

Senior Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Our experienced team is dedicated to building lasting partnerships based on professional integrity ... Provide direct support for algorithm development, leading tasking for analysis of sensor resource ...

Trivector Services Inc

Senior Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Our experienced team is dedicated to building lasting partnerships based on professional integrity ... Provide direct support for algorithm development, leading tasking for analysis of sensor resource ...

TriVector Services, Inc

Senior Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Our experienced team is dedicated to building lasting partnerships based on professional integrity ... Provide direct support for algorithm development, leading tasking for analysis of sensor resource ...

Ametek

Director of Marketing

Huntsville, AL · On-site

As the Director of Marketing, you will have a strategic global leadership role responsible for ... Set clear goals and expectations, provide regular timely feedback, and support professional ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Athens, AL

Direct Support Professional information

See Athens, AL salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Athens, AL is $15.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $16.92 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.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs

What cities near Athens, AL are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Athens, AL with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Athens, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,690 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Looking for Monday, Thursday and Sunday 8:30am to 6pm

Seniors Prefer Homecare

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

DO NOT APPLY IF...
•You can not pass a drug screen
•You can not pass a background check 
•You don’t have reliable transportation
•You don’t have a valid driver license 

***Flexible hours***
Part-time / Full-time 

Responsibilities:

•Activities of daily living 
•Transportation
•Medication reminder
•Light housekeeping
•Light personal care

  • Home assistance – Provide light housekeeping, run errands or provide transportation if needed.  Accompany clients to appointments . Prepare meals, purchase food and provide personal assistance with general living needs.  Personal services could include toileting, bathing, feeding and grooming.
  • Companionship – Provide companionship and conversation by stimulating, encouraging and assisting an individual.  

Requirements: 

  • High school diploma preferred.
  • Must be able to complete a Criminal Background report.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds at a time
  • Ability to reach, bend, kneel and stand for (sometimes) a long period of time

Give us a call to fast forward the hiring process! 
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