ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Professional Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Special Needs Unlimited

Field Coordinator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$13/hr

This would include the scheduling and supervision of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) working in the home, maintaining required documentation, providing training to staff, monitoring the quality ...

Apply Early

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Direct Support Professional information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Baton Rouge, LA is $14.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $15.53 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 Baton Rouge, LA? For Direct Support Professional jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,969 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Direct Service Professional

Autumn Lake Healthcare Services

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Salary: $11.50

Would you like to apply for a great part-time or full-time job with future career growth opportunities? Autumn Lake is a new personal care agency in your area


Benefits offered:

  • Flexible shifts that can range from PT/FT/Overnights/PRN shifts
  • Room for growth
  • Referral bonuses
  • 24 hours on call support
  • Max 40 hour work weeks
  • Rotating weekends
  • Free DSP Certification
  • Free CPR and First Aid Training
  • Free Background Check

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Mobility assistance
  • Transferring/positioning
  • Meal prep
  • Errand services
  • Transportation
  • Companionship
  • Alzheimer's and dementia care
  • Respite
  • Home safety
  • Light housekeeping

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Experience in transferring, positioning, and personal care.
  • Reliable Transportation
  • Consistent demonstration of reliability and punctuality.
  • Positive, patient and respectful attitude.
  • Desire to help others and make a difference in the lives of seniors in the community.
  • Candidates with experience as a CNA, Home Health Aide, Personal Care Aide/Assistant, or similar position please apply


We can be reached at 225.246.2740

5516 Superior Dr. St. A Baton Rouge LA, 70816


Applications are accepted MON-FRI 9:00-11:00 and 1:00-3:00


An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, Autumn Lake LLC considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any legally protected status. We will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship.


Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $11.50