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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Ellsworth, WI

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:

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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Direct Support Professional information

See Ellsworth, WI salary details

$10

$17

$22

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.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Ellsworth, WI?

For Direct Support Professional jobs in Ellsworth, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Ellsworth, WI are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

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

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-DSP

AHL Healthcare Group

Afton, MN โ€ข On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Personal Care and Direct Support Aide

AHL Healthcare Group Inc. is currently seeking a full- or part-time Personal Care and Direct Support Aide in Afton, MN.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

This opportunity offers a competitive pay range of $18.00 - $20 per hour, and the chance to provide compassionate, hands-on care to individuals who rely on your support. You can also enjoy the following benefits and perks:

Supplemental insurance (short-term disability, life, accident, and critical illness)

Health insurance (available for full-time; 1-year waiting period for part-time)

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Performance-based wage increases

This is typically a part-time position with a rotating schedule, including every other weekend. Full-time opportunities may occasionally become available.
We offer a variety of shifts to accommodate different schedules. Examples include:
AM Shift: 7:00 AM โ€“ 3:00 PM
PM Shift: 3:00 PM โ€“ 11:00 PM
Overnight (NOC): 11:00 PM โ€“ 7:00 AM

HOW WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE

AHL Healthcare Group Inc. is the parent company of At Home Living, Bridges to Success, Wesley Residence, and Garden Terrace. Our mission is to help people with disabilities live fulfilling lives in a supportive, independent environment. Since opening our first home in 2000, we've grown to operate multiple Community Residential Settings (CRS) across Minnesota, including the Twin Cities Metro and Duluth.

We take pride in providing personalized care and have a culture built on teamwork, compassion, and dedication. Our staff is the heart of our organization, and we believe in leading by example to foster a supportive, home-like atmosphere for both our clients and employees.

ARE YOU THE PERSONAL CARE AND DIRECT SUPPORT AIDE WE'RE LOOKING FOR?

Valid driver's license and being at least 19 years

Experience in a direct care role

Willingness to work every other weekend

If you can meet the requirements above, keep reading to find out what your day entails!

AVERAGE DAY AS A PERSONAL CARE AND DIRECT SUPPORT AIDE

In this role, you will provide essential care and daily living support to individuals with disabilities in a residential setting. Your responsibilities will include administering medications, assisting with personal care and other activities of daily living, preparing simple meals, and maintaining a clean and comfortable environment through light housekeeping. You will also provide transportation to appointments, ensuring individuals are supported both at home and in the community.

READY TO GET STARTED?

If you are seeking a disabilities assistance position where your work truly matters, we encourage you to apply today. Our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application makes it easy to take the first step toward joining our healthcare team!


Must be able to pass a MN DHS Background Check