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

tmn

Direct Support Professional

Lilburn, GA

$13.75 - $16.75/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:

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $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:

tmn

Direct Support Professional

Lilburn, GA

$13.75 - $16.75/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:

tmn

Direct Support Professional

Lithonia, GA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/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:

tmn

Direct Support Professional

Lithonia, GA

$13.75 - $16.75/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:

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Atlanta, GA · 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

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $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:

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Decatur, GA is $13.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $14.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 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.

More about Direct Support Professional jobs
What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Decatur, GA? For Direct Support Professional jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Decatur, GA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,706 per year, or $13.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

United Cerebral Palsy of GA

Covington, GA • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Medical, Vision, Life

Posted 20 days ago

Job description


Free Medical Coverage, Flexible Schedules, and Paid Training




Our Mission and Vision:

The mission of United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia is to positively support and impact the achievement of a Life Without Limits for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

UCP of Georgia’s vision is to create a community in which every person, regardless of ability, can participate as an equal citizen. To realize this vision, UCP of Georgia offers supports designed to help people maximize their potential and achieve independent, productive, and rewarding lives.

Job Summary:

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) assist in the day-to-day support of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The role of UCP of Georgia DSPs involves assisting adults with daily tasks such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, transportation, and social activities. Our DSPs understand the unique strengths and challenges of each individual they serve, tailoring their support to promote personal growth and independence.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Provides transportation and supervision for individuals as required to meet employment, recreational and leisure activities.
  • Performs inspections of vans and ensures that all training for the safe transport of residents is followed including performing tie downs, seat belt usage.
  • Performs housekeeping responsibilities to include but not limited to, kitchens, bathrooms, windows, bedrooms, and floors.
  • Maintains all standards when preparing meals and managing diets. Follows guidelines for safe handling of food as well as ensures adequate supplies. Ensures meals are prepared according to Individual Healthcare plans.
  • Provides personal care support to individuals which includes changing, dressing, and other ADL’s.
  • Completes all documentation and notes as required using the Therap system and other programs.
  • Ensures that goals are being completed according to each individual’s ISP.
  • Conducts evacuation drills and records results.
  • Assists in the planning and facilitation of person-centered outings.
  • Completes behavioral tracking logs as required.
  • Follows all agency, State and Federal laws and policies. Uses PolicyStat as needed to access policies.
  • Completes all required training. Uses Relias to either complete training or register for courses.
  • Manages medical emergencies according to the health service plan. Attends doctors appointments, transports residents to medical appointments and emergency room as required and requested.
  • Identifies and reports maintenance issues to supervisor or through NetFacilities if available.
  • Reports to work promptly and on time and does not leave work until assigned shift ends or has approval from supervisor. Observes policies/procedures governing requests for annual, sick, or other leave time.
  • Completes Medication Administration and Proxy training. Administers meds to residents and follows all policies related to MAR entries.
  • Tracks vital signs and other health related information for residents.
  • All other duties as assigned.
  • Must be able to lift and move up to 50lbs with or without accommodations.


Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
  • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
  • Ability to use technology to record notes


Required Certifications and Licenses: Must have valid drivers license, CPR/FA, CPI