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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Medical Director

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership. NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program ...

Tech Support

Baker, LA

$36K - $46K/yr

GEO IT Director Full Time ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS: The IT Support Technician will be required ... Preform other duties, as deemed appropriate Dress professionally when on school grounds ...

Professional Counselor 4

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.9K - $7.1K/mo

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... work has a direct impact on the communities we serve. If you thrive in a mission-driven ... Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, families, schools, community providers, and other support ...

Tech Support

Baker, LA · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

GEO IT Director Full Time ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS: The IT Support Technician will be required ... • Provide professional, courteous customer service • Maintain ongoing inventory • Be ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

Professional Counselor 4

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.9K - $7.1K/mo

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Serves as backup to treatment, medical, and support staff at NEDHSA's clinics as needed. Additional ... Janesia Raybon, MPA Human Resources Director A Northeast Delta Human Services Authority 2513 ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

Mental Health Professional - Juvenile

Baker, LA

$50K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... support. How you make a difference The Mental Health Professional provides clinical services under the direction of the MH Coordinator, Clinical Supervisor or MH Director to youth involved in the ...

Mental Health Professional - Juvenile

Baker, LA

$50K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... support. How you make a difference The Mental Health Professional provides clinical services under the direction of the MH Coordinator, Clinical Supervisor or MH Director to youth involved in the ...

Showing results 41-60

Direct Support Professional information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Baton Rouge, LA is $12.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $13.75 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 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.

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 cities 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.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $26,587 per year, or $12.8 per hour.

Direct Care Worker - Mentoring Specialist

Timothy Hill Children's Ranch, Inc.

Baker, LA

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Timothy Hill’s residential program on the Baker, LA campus provides a safe, home-like environment for at-risk youth ages 13–17. Many residents have experienced abuse, neglect, homelessness, addiction, or alternatives to incarceration. Our program focuses on education, vocational training, life skills, and spiritual guidance within an equestrian, adventure-based setting. Our goal is to transform lives through Christ’s love by helping youth build hope, stability, and a plan for successful community transition.

POSITION SUMMARY

Direct Care Mentoring Specialist (Baker, LA)

Supervisor: Site Director

Direct Care Mentoring Specialists are the heartbeat of our residential program. They create a warm, structured, and nurturing home environment while providing consistent mentorship to youth who have experienced adversity and trauma. This role requires compassion, emotional strength, and a calm presence during crisis. Staff must model maturity, patience, professionalism, and Christ-like love while helping youth develop life skills, confidence, and hope for their future.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIESDaily Care & Home Life

  • Provide supervision and mentorship in daily routines, chores, and activities
  • Create a safe, warm, home-like environment through consistency and hospitality
  • Model positive social skills, communication, and emotional regulation
  • Assist with home-style meals and family routines

Behavioral & Emotional Support

  • Use de-escalation skills to manage behavioral incidents with calm professionalism
  • Provide emotional support while maintaining healthy boundaries
  • Implement trauma-informed care and positive behavior strategies
  • Support individualized care plans

Crisis Response & Safety

  • Respond quickly to crisis situations anywhere on campus
  • Perform all TCI protective interventions, including restraints when necessary
  • Support youth experiencing emotional distress
  • Report urgent medical, safety, or behavioral concerns to leadership

Administrative Responsibilities

  • Maintain accurate logs including participation, shift summaries, incident reports, and medication documentation
  • Dispense medications as trained
  • Attend team meetings, trainings, and case reviews
  • Communicate clearly with leadership and team members

Professionalism & Leadership

  • Provide consistent, compassionate, and firm guidance
  • Support youth development of resilience, work ethic, and character
  • Represent Timothy Hill’s mission and values in all interactions

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to perform TCI protective interventions and respond quickly in crises
  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, and supervise for extended periods
  • Must be able to drive a motor vehicle
  • Ability to lift 25–30 lbs as needed

QUALIFICATIONSRequired

  • 21+ years old
  • High school diploma/GED (college degree preferred)
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Strong communication, teamwork, and integrity
  • Ability to work variable schedules including weekends and nights
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism

Preferred

  • 2+ years of youth-facing or human services experience
  • Experience with at-risk youth or residential settings
  • Trauma-informed care knowledge
  • Crisis intervention training

TRAINING & BACKGROUND CHECKS

  • Required trainings provided by Timothy Hill
  • FBI fingerprinting
  • LA Abuse & Maltreatment Registry check
  • Out-of-state clearances (if applicable)
  • Pre-employment drug testing
  • Extensive background check required by LA state

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

We offer competitive salaries and benefits for full-time employees, including:

  • 401(k)
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Flexible schedule
  • Referral program

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be proficient in computers and Microsoft Office
  • Bi-lingual preferred
  • Valid and current state driver’s license
  • Must be 25 years or older to drive

LOCATION & WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Work Location: In person (Baker, LA 70714)
  • Relocation required before starting if not local
  • Residential campus setting with direct youth interaction
  • Shift availability required: day, night, and overnight

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Relocation assistance
  • Vision insurance

Experience:

  • Group home: 2 years (Required)
  • Attention to detail: 2 years (Preferred)

Shift availability:

  • Overnight Shift (Preferred)
  • Night Shift (Preferred)
  • Day Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

  • Baker, LA (Required)

Work Location: In person