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

Ball HealthCare

Director of Nursing

Birmingham, AL · On-site

You must have the ability to plan, develop, organize, implement, evaluate and direct the overall ... Continuing Education Support (Professional Licenses) * Tuition Reimbursement Program Interested in ...

AmeriLife

Licensed Insurance Agent

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Premium Lead Programs Access to direct mail, digital, seminars/workshops, and other proven lead ... Professional Marketing & Sales Support Custom-designed marketing materials plus hands-on guidance ...

AmeriLife

Licensed Insurance Agent

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Premium Lead Programs Access to direct mail, digital, seminars/workshops, and other proven lead ... Professional Marketing & Sales Support Custom-designed marketing materials plus hands-on guidance ...

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

Direct Support Professional information

See Calera, AL salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Calera, AL is $15.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.30 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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Calera, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Calera, AL are:

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

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

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Calera, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,415 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Louises Promise LLC

Hoover, AL • On-site

$11 - $13/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Louise's Promise Residential Homes are seeking compassion and dependable Direct Support Professional to provide care and supervision to individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism in a licensed residential setting. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Provides hands on personal care, including bathing, feeding, toileting, grooming, and hygiene.

Assist individuals with daily living skills and community participation

Provide one-to-one supervision when required and maintain line-of-sight supervision throughout the shift

Provide three to one supervision when required and maintain line-of-sight supervision throughout the shift

Transport individuals and accompany them to medical appointments, day programs, community outings, and personal activities

Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served at all times 

Accurately follow care plans, behavior support plans, agency policies

Maintain required documentation and incident reporting per Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) guidelines

Schedule Requirements

Must be able to work weekends

Overtime may be required

Minimum Qualifications

Must be 20 years of age or older

High school diploma preferred, GED accepted

Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record

Ability to pass ADMH background checks, drug screening, and TB testing

Ability to provide physical assistance as required 

Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred but not required (training provided)

Work Environment

Residential home setting

May required lifting, standing, walking, and physical assistance

Minimal cooking skills required

Equal Opportunity Employer

Louise's Promise Residential Home is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all Alabama state and federal employment laws, including ADMH regulations.


 

Company Description

We are a company that provides a lifestyle of stability with loving caregivers, learning opportunities, good healthy cooking and exciting adventures for the individuals we serve. We are Certified with the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Development Disabilities.