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

Mypath

Direct Support Professional

Sullivan, IL · On-site

$21/hr

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide support, supervision, and engagement to students in their living ...

Possability LLC

Direct Care Professional

Decatur, IL

$18 - $20/hr

Role Description This is an in-home care role for Care Professionals including Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Home Care Aides (HCA) located in Illinois.

Possability LLC

Direct Care Professional

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Role Description This is an in-home care role for Care Professionals including Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Home Care Aides (HCA) located in Illinois.

PossAbility, LLC

Direct Care Professional

Monticello, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) in Illinois helps people with diverse abilities and disabilities to live independently and have a good quality of life . DSPs help with daily tasks, provide ...

PossAbility, LLC

Direct Care Professional

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Home Care Aides (HCA ... The Care Professional will be responsible for providing daily, hands-on support to individuals with ...

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

Direct Support Professional information

See Decatur, IL salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Decatur, IL is $15.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.02 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
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What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,854 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

MACON RESOURCES INC

Decatur, IL • On-site

$19.55/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Do you want to get PAID to make a difference in someone's life? If so, Macon Resources is the place for you! MRI serves over 800 children and adults with disabilities in the Decatur community. You might be thinking, That's a lot of people! How do you serve that many? Well, hopefully YOU can help us!

Direct Support Professionals are the backbone of MRI. They help our individuals gain freedom and independence by assisting them in everyday tasks. These tasks, just like your everyday tasks, range from waking up and preparing breakfast to shooting hoops outside. All full time employees are eligible for health, life, vision, and FREE dental. You'll also receive paid vacation, personal, AND sick time!

*Shift Differential for those working 2nd and 3rd will be paid an extra $2/hr.

*Weekend Differential for those working 2nd and 3rd will be paid an extra $3/hour starting at 6am on Saturday to 6am on Monday.

So are you a good fit for MRI? Well, lets find out! MRI is looking for someone with a positive attitude, willingness to learn and an impulse to give back to the community. Feel free to contact HR at Macon Resources if you need assistance filling out an application!

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Completion of Direct Support Person training in accordance with state regulations and maintain status on the Habilitation Aid Registry (Dont worry well provide the training!)
  • Effective oral and written communication
  • Access to a phone or ability to be contact outside of work

Apply