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

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Direct Support Professional information

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$8

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Decatur, AL is $14.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $15.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)?

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.

What Is a Direct Support Professional?

Direct support professionals (DSPs) provide non-medical care and services to intellectually or physically disabled persons. These services may be in the patient's home, at assisted living facilities, or in government institutions. The primary duties of DSPs are to help the patient with everyday tasks, such as taking medication, providing transportation to doctor's appointments, and running errands. DSPs also aim to teach patients life skills, including light housework and meal preparation, to enable them to be a little more independent.

More about Direct Support Professional jobs
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,293 per year, or $14.6 per hour.
Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional

Wise Staffing Group

Decatur, AL

$14 - $17/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Direct Support Professionals Needed!
We are currently looking for individuals interested in providing support for those with disabilities; in a Group home environment

assist them in daily living activities in an effort to improve their quality of life, live more independently, and achieve their goals and dreams.
no single person lift
no experience required but preferred, will train.

Full time, part time, and weekends available! Group Homes are located in Athens and Decatur

Requirements:
Felony-Free criminal background
ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen
high school diploma or GED proof required
If applying for driver position you must provide proof of vehicle insurance.
Wise Staffing Group logo

About Wise Staffing Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Wise Staffing Group has become one of the largest staffing services in the Southeast. With 60 offices, Wise Staffing Group consists of Wise Staffing Services, Labor Source, Resource Management Group, and Wise Medical Staffing Inc. Since 1987, we have proven to be one of the most respected providers of innovative staffing solutions. Wise Staffing Group has developed and offers industry leading services that provide dependable, qualified workers. Each office sets and maintains the same high standards of operation and ongoing commitment to quality services. We consistently work toward superior performance in fulfilling our client’s needs.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tupelo, MS, US

Year founded

1987

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