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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Ellsworth, WI

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Red Wing, MN · On-site

$17/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 Health

Direct Support Professional

Red Wing, MN · On-site

$19.51/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

Stillwater, MN · On-site

$18.57/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 Ellsworth, WI

Direct Support Professional information

See Ellsworth, WI salary details

$10

$17

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Ellsworth, WI is $17.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $18.85 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 cities near Ellsworth, WI are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Ellsworth, WI with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Ellsworth, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,341 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - Part Time

Orion Associates

Cottage Grove, MN • On-site

$24/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Meridian Services offers person-centered supports and cares to individuals with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities across a diverse range of settings. These include Residential Services, In-Home Services, and Case Management Services. Today, we have 30 group homes, 150 In-Home person served, and over 100 Case Managers across the state of Minnesota. Our mission is to provide services of the finest quality so that those we serve will be able to achieve their goals.
Job Title: Direct Support Professional
Location: Cottage Grove, MN (multiple schedules available across various locations)
Schedule: Mon 9a-2p, and Every Other Weekend 9am-2pm
Wage: $24 hourly including company benefits
Job Summary:
As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will assist individuals in working toward their personal goals. DSP staff support individuals with tasks such as meal preparation, community outings, personal hygiene, shopping, cleaning, attending appointments, and taking medication. Staff should feel comfortable providing personal care, medical supports, and other daily supports to those they assist. Staff should feel comfortable responding to interfering behaviors.
Essential Job Duties:
  • Work on tailored outcomes with each person in the home. Outcomes may include budgeting, behavioral management, community exploration, meal planning, organizational skills, coping skills, and/or physical fitness.
  • Be an active participant with individuals served when working on outcomes and out in the community.
  • Assist with personal cares as needed per person served.
  • Provide guidance and instructional teaching to persons while building life skills.
  • Provide cleaning, cooking and medication administration to the individuals living at the home.
  • Provide supervision and transportation in the community on activities and appointments. Typically, a company vehicle is available, but times may require use of own personal vehicle.

Preferred Experience:
  • At least 1 year supporting individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and/or mental health diagnosis
  • At least 1 year working with individuals with verbal and physical aggressions
  • At least 1 year implementing Emergency Use of Manual Restraints (applicable at select programs)

Required Qualifications:
  • Staff must be at least 18 years of age to support Adult Programs
  • Staff must be 21 years of age or older to support Youth Programs
  • Proficient in spoken and written English language
  • Have a vehicle to use for work related purposes with current car insurance
  • Have an acceptable driving record as determined by Meridian Services policy
  • Have a Wi-Fi-enabled device for work related purposes
  • Successful clearance of a Department of Human Services (DHS) Background Study
  • Comfortable providing personal cares (including but not limited to: bathroom supports, bathing/showering, medication administration)

Meridian Services Company Benefits and Perks Include:
  • Paid Training
  • MN Earned Sick and Safe Time
  • 401K plan with employer matching after 1 year
  • Select benefits available for eligible Part-Time employees
  • Employee of the month recognition and gift card
  • Growth and Management Opportunities!

Meridian Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.

Apply