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

Delta-T Group

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 ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Kankakee, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Since 1974, we've supported individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Joliet, IL · On-site

$19.45/hr

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

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

Direct Support Professional information

See Crete, IL salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 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 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.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs
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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,446 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Waiver Direct Support Professional

Accessabilities Inc

Merrillville, IN

$16 - $18.50/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Waiver Direct Support Professional

  • Location

    8398 Mississippi St., Merrillville, IN, 46410, United States

  • Base Pay

    $16.00 - $18.5 / Hour

  • Employee Type

    FT Non-Exempt

  • Required Degree

    NONE

  • Travel

    30%

  • Manage Others

    No

Description

Do you enjoy building genuine connections while making a meaningful difference? At AccessAbilities, you can do that while working alongside individuals who are easygoing and a joy to support.

AccessAbilities is seeking experienced Direct Support Professionals who operate at a high standard of care, accountability, and professionalism to work weekend shifts and 1:1 overnight shifts.

This role is designed for career Direct Support Professionals who understand that direct support is skilled work requiring judgment, documentation discipline, regulatory awareness, and consistent execution.

We are looking for professionals who take ownership of outcomes and contribute to a stable, high-performing residential environment. Our residential sites are structured, supportive environments where positive relationships and mutual respect are central to daily life. If you are proactive, driven, solutions-oriented, and growth-minded, this is an opportunity to work in an organization that values experience, maintains strong standards, and fosters a supportive team culture.

The Role

The Experienced DSP provides direct support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while ensuring compliance, safety, and dignity in all aspects of care.

You will:

  • Implement Person Centered Individual Support Plans (PCISPs) and behavior support strategies with consistency -

  • Provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) while promoting independence -

  • Administer and document medications in compliance with state requirements -

  • Complete clear, timely, and audit-ready documentation

  • Maintain a safe, structured, and person-centered environment

  • Communicate effectively with leadership regarding changes in health, behavior, or risk

  • Support community integration and transportation, including recreational outings and activities

This is not a passive caregiving role. It requires attention to detail, sound judgment, and pride in professional standards balanced with the ability to build meaningful, positive relationships.

Who Thrives Here

Our strongest DSPs:

  • Hold themselves accountable without constant supervision

  • Anticipate needs rather than reacting to problems

  • Maintain strong professional boundaries

  • Understand waiver expectations and compliance standards

  • Support team culture through reliability and consistency

  • Take initiative to strengthen both client outcomes and operational stability

  • Enjoy engaging with individuals in activities that promote connection and quality of life

We value DSPs who see this as a profession not a temporary position and who appreciate that providing excellent support can also be rewarding and enjoyable.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 2+ years of verifiable DSP experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred

  • Strong working knowledge of documentation and compliance requirements

  • CPR & First Aid certification preferred

  • Valid drivers license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance

  • Ability to pass all background and regulatory screenings

  • HCSP training and medication administration experience strongly preferred

Summary

Compensation and Benefits

  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience and qualifications

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

  • Health, dental, vision, and additional insurance options (based on eligibility)

  • 401(k) with employer match (based on eligibility)

  • Opportunities for advancement into Lead and Site-level leadership roles

  • Structured, mission-driven team environment

If you are an experienced DSP seeking a professional environment where high standards are expected and respected and where the individuals you support are engaging, personable, and enjoyable to work with we encourage you to apply.

AccessAbilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace.


Compensation details: 16-18.5 Hourly Wage


PI49de66b05137-25406-41082204

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