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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Bolingbrook, IL

Direct Support Professional

Glenview, IL

$14.75 - $18/hr

The Opportunity As a Direct Support Professional, you will play a direct care role, assisting individuals with severe developmental disabilities to learn skills of daily living. This can include ...

Direct Support Professional

Joliet, IL

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

The Opportunity As a Direct Support Professional, you will play a direct care role, assisting individuals with severe developmental disabilities to learn skills of daily living. This can include ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support Professional information

See Bolingbrook, IL salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Bolingbrook, IL is $16.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.36 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.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Bolingbrook, IL?

For Direct Support Professional jobs in Bolingbrook, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Bolingbrook, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Bolingbrook, IL are:

What cities near Bolingbrook, IL are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Bolingbrook, IL with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Bolingbrook, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,493 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Aspire Chicago

Hillside, IL

$20.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description

Are you a caring and motivated individual? Do you enjoy building relationships and contributing to a positive environment? Do you have a passion for helping individuals develop their independence and achieve personal goals? Are you looking for a career with a purpose? 


If so, apply to join the Aspire team as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) today! We are looking for dedicated individuals to assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) homes. The Direct Support Professional (DSP) acts as an advocate for individuals by supporting their personal needs, encouraging respectful interactions with others, and creating a positive living environment. 


Aspire Direct Support Professional (DSP) Requirements

Requirements and Experience:

Proof of High School Diploma or GED

Valid driver's license, with 5 years of driving experience with a license, and an acceptable driving record for the past five years

Must pass required criminal background checks

Have and present in-person original copies of required I9 documents


Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Effective oral and written communication skills; ability to write reports

Comfortable using various computer software to stay connected (i.e. Outlook, Zoom, online training, etc.)

Ability to maintain confidential information

Ability to deal tactfully, respectfully, and courteously with participants, employees at all levels, families, and the general public


Preferred Experience:

Personal or professional experience in a caregiver role

1-year experience working with adults with developmental disabilities



We offer:

$20.50 - $21.50/hour (depending on experience)

Sign-on bonuses for full-time ($1,500) and part-time ($750) (paid out in three installments over 6 months)

Referral bonuses 

Paid training 

Retirement plan with matching contributions 

Health and insurance benefits (hours requirement) 

Paid time off benefits 

And more! (see benefits list below) 


At Aspire our values inspire our belief in the power of possible; we empower others to achieve their dreams, lend a hand to others, celebrate belonging, seek feedback from others to improve, and show respect and build trust. 


Aspire has entry-level full-time and part-time positions available. We consider all applicants who meet the minimum requirements listed above. Apply to join our team if you are just entering or returning to the workforce, have limited experience or education. We provide the training! 


Voted as one of the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for in Chicago!

We know that Together, We're Better!


Direct Support Professional (DSP) Position Responsibilities:

  • Support adult individuals with daily activities such as shopping, laundry,  money management, and home care
  • Assist individuals with grooming, bathing, toileting, and dressing as needed
  • Assist with connectivity to others through various technology platforms (i.e. Zoom)
  • Assist with meal preparation and cooking
  • Perform light housekeeping duties
  • Monitor or administer medication dosage to participants
  • Drive adult individuals to doctor appointments, to and from work, and various errands (company provided vehicle)
  • May provide mobility support to participants, which includes lifting or walking utilizing adaptive equipment
  • Complete and submit reports
  • Provide companionship to individuals
  • Encourage attitudes and behaviors that foster community inclusion
  • Serve as a liaison to represent Aspire in the community
  • Complete the established Illinois Department of Human Services DSP training (training provided through Aspire), including medication training, and maintain required certifications and on-going training 
  • Additional duties as assigned


 Aspire was founded in 1960 and is recognized as a leader in providing bold, pioneering, and uncompromising services to adults with developmental disabilities, their families, and the community. In 2019, we joined forces with NorthPointe Resources to be one of the most recognized and respected disability service providers across the Chicago metropolitan area, Lake County (Illinois), and southeastern Wisconsin areas. 



Benefits at Aspire (a waiting period applies for some benefits): 


Full Time (regularly scheduled to work at least 37 1/2 hours per week) and Part Time 30 (regularly scheduled to work between 37 1/2 and 30 hours per week)

  • Health Insurance (including dental and vision) 
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Benefit Time (Vacation, Sick, Personal)
  • 13 Paid Holidays
  • 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
  • Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Pet insurance
  • Other voluntary Insurances available


Part Time (regularly scheduled to work less than 30 hours per week):

  • Health Insurance (if hours requirement met after a year of employment)
  • Paid Time Off - 4 Hours Earned for Every 520 Hours Worked
  • Paid Leave For All - 1 Hour Earned for Every 40 Hours Worked (maximum accrual 40 hours) 
  • Sick Time - 1 Hour Earned for Every 40 Hours Worked (maximum accrual of 192 hours) 
  • Holiday Premium Pay
  • 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Pet Insurance 


Aspire's priority is keeping our team members and participants healthy and safe. PPE is provided and regular cleaning and disinfecting regiments are followed to maintain a safe work and living environment. Hand sanitizer is available throughout our facilities.  


Aspire is an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. 


Aspire is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities so that an applicant may complete the essential functions of a position. The essential functions of positions are outlined in a position's job description.  To request an accommodation or if you have a question regarding what the essential functions of a position are please contact the People Team at 708.497.4573.