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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Cochran, GA (NOW HIRING)

The Arc Macon, Inc.

Direct Support Staff

Macon, GA · Remote

$16.95/hr

Promotes the agency's mission and purpose in professional and private life. * Maintains a clean ... Direct Support Professional Certificate is preferred, but not required. * At least six months ...

The Arc Macon, Inc.

Direct Support Staff

Macon, GA · Remote

$16.95/hr

Promotes the agency's mission and purpose in professional and private life. * Maintains a clean ... Direct Support Professional Certificate is preferred, but not required. * At least six months ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Cochran, GA salary details

$8

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$16

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Cochran, GA is $13.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.78 and $14.33 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.
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What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Cochran, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Cochran, GA are:

What cities near Cochran, GA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Cochran, GA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Cochran, GA 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 $27,639 per year, or $13.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Community Service Board of Middle Georgia - PEO, Ltd.

Eastman, GA • On-site

$11.06/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

The Community Service Board of Middle Georgia is dedicated to providing those we serve with quality innovative behavioral healthcare in a recovery-based environment. CSB of Middle Georgia is recognized as a state leader in comprehensive behavioral healthcare providing integrated cost-effective services. CSB of Middle Georgia is located in Dublin, Georgia, and the agency currently serves residents of Bleckley, Dodge, Johnson, Laurens, Montgomery, Pulaski, Telfair, Treutlen, Wheeler, and Wilcox counties in Georgia; and in our Ogeechee Behavioral Health Division, serving residents of Burke, Emanuel, Glascock, Jefferson, Jenkins, and Screven counties in Georgia. We value Quality, Professionalism, Person-Centered, Recovery, Teamwork, Improvement, Accountability, Management of Practicing Information, Wellness, and Financial Stability.

LOCATION: Eastman, Georgia

The Community Service Board of Middle Georgia's Dodge County Group Home is seeking a qualified individual to serve as our next Direct Support Professional. This person will be responsible for providing care and assistance to adults with diagnosed intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring that they have the proper care needed throughout the day and in everyday activities. The selected candidate will also be responsible for keeping up to date progress notes on the individuals they work with, to ensure that the program manager has the proper knowledge to advise families and senior leadership on necessary next steps.

Responsibilities of the Direct Support Professional:

  • Monitor/Supervise individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring proper safety and care
  • Provide for the personal needs and comfort of the individuals of the program
  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living, such as eating, cleaning and basic hygiene needs
  • Perform general housekeeping needs throughout the assigned location
  • Use observational skills to remain aware of changes in the behavior and physical condition of the individuals
  • Transports individuals on different community outings and events
  • Other duties as assigned


Here are some of the things we require:

  • High School Diploma/GED Equivalent
  • Valid Georgia Driver’s License
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse communities
  • Ability to work independently and in collaboration with others
  • Experience with Microsoft 365 Office Products
  • Ability to organize, prioritize and meet deadlines accordingly

Here’s what would put you over the top:

  • Previous experience being a personal care assistant or certified nursing assistant


At this time, CSB of Middle Georgia will not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization for this position.

*Please note that paid lunches are only for select positions that must assist individuals with eating needs at typical meal periods*

** Final pay rate will be dependent on a combination of qualifications such as experience and education. **


Full Time - Rotating Shifts:(8am to 4pm) (4pm to 12am) (12am to 8am) **Please note that shift options may include 12-Hour shifts with same start times.**