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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Crete, IL (NOW HIRING)

Active Visions

Direct Support Professional

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Direct Support Professional assist in the daily needs of the clients. We are looking for team members that are fun and active and encourage our clients to be as well! **DSP's must have a High School ...

Caregiver

Direct Support Professional

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$14.15/hr

Description Direct Support Professional (DSP) At Caregiver, we believe everyone deserves to live their best, most independent life - and we're here to make that happen. As a leading Texas-based ...

Help at Home

Direct Support Professional

Portage, IN

$17/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Join Help at Home and make a real difference in your community! Are you a... * High school grad looking to start a meaningful career * College student needing to ...

Delta-T Group

Direct Support Professional

Joliet, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) (Nonprofit / Social Services / Healthcare / Transitional Living Programs / DD Residences, TLPs, CILAs) The Personality Have you cared for a loved one and found it ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Crete, IL

Direct Support Professional information

See Crete, IL salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Crete, IL is $15.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $16.83 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 Crete, IL look for?

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

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

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

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Crete, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,446 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

SHALOM STAFFING AND CPR SERVICES IN

Midlothian, IL • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP/ADSP)

Location: Chicago & Metro Chicago, IL

Job Type: Per Diem — 4, 8, 12 hour shifts and weekends available

Pay: $21.00/hour (W2 or 1099)

About the Role:
Shalom Staffing and CPR Services is hiring compassionate, reliable Direct Support Professionals (DSP/ADSP) to work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) throughout Chicago and the surrounding metro area. As a DSP, you'll play a vital role in helping individuals live fulfilling, independent lives — assisting with daily activities, building skills, and providing companionship and support in a residential (CILA) setting.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide direct, hands-on support and personal care to individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities
  • Assist with daily living activities, transportation, health maintenance, and household tasks
  • Support the development of behavioral, social, and life skills
  • Maintain accurate documentation of care, progress, and any incidents
  • Foster community and social integration for the individuals you support
  • Work effectively with individuals of all ages, including during emotionally difficult or high-stress moments

Requirements:

  • Minimum 1 year of experience as a DSP
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Ability to read at an 8th-grade level or higher (high school diploma/GED required if administering medications)
  • Must pass required registry clearances and criminal fingerprint background checks
  • Must speak and understand English or a language understood by a substantial percentage of persons served
  • Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and clean driving record preferred

Preferred Qualifications:

  • First Aid & CPR/AED Certification (American Red Cross or American Heart Association)
  • Abuse and Neglect certification
  • Medication Administration training
  • Experience with documentation and record-keeping systems
  • State-approved training (e.g., DD Aide training in Illinois)

Why Work With Us:

  • Competitive pay — $21/hour
  • Flexible per diem scheduling (4, 8, 12 hour shifts + weekends)
  • Choice of W2 or 1099 pay structure
  • Weekly payroll

Company Description

Shalom Staffing and CPR Services is an IDD staffing solutions provider serving Chicago and the greater metro area. We connect qualified Direct Support Professionals, HHAs, and CNAs with agencies supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, while also offering CPR/First Aid training and DSP training programs. We're committed to quality care, integrity, and supporting both our staff and the people they serve.