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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Pathfinder

Direct Support Professional

Huntington, IN

$16.48/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Category: Disability Services Location: Huntington, IN Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Substitute Working Hours: Monday-Friday 2:30pm-10:00pm (37.5/hrs.) Starting ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

THRIVE AS A DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL AT SEVITA. EACH DAY, YOU'LL * Be proud of rewarding work helping people grow, learn, and live well * Develop real, meaningful relationships with the ...

Circle City ABA

Direct Support Professional

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$20/hr

Take the next step in your professional journey and join our team today! Apply now and start making ... Serves in a direct care role, consulting the BCBA regularly for additional support, training, and ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

In this role, your tasks will be diversified and you will be supporting our mission. * Provide leadership and supervision to staff in the residence and community while providing direct services to ...

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Churubusco, IN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/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:

New

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

South Whitley, IN · On-site

$14 - $17/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:

New

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Direct Support Professional information

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Fort Wayne, IN is $14.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $16.06 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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Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,953 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Pathfinder

Huntington, IN

$16.48/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description

Company: Pathfinder

Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Category: Disability Services

Location: Huntington, IN

Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Substitute

Working Hours:  Monday-Friday 2:30pm-10:00pm (37.5/hrs.)

 Starting Pay: $16.48 per hour, with additional shift differentials for eligible direct care hours worked:

  • Weekend Differential: An additional $3.00 per hour for direct care shifts worked on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Weekday Third Shift Differential: An additional $2.00 per hour for eligible hours worked Monday through Friday.

Job Summary:

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are essential in empowering individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities to lead self-directed lives, contribute to their communities, and achieve greater independence. DSPs provide high-quality support across all areas of daily living and individualized care, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

Daily Living Support: Teach and support essential skills such as personal care, meal preparation and planning, and daily living tasks to promote independence. This includes assistance with cooking, bathing, and other personal care needs.


Community Engagement: Facilitate community integration and involvement, helping individuals build meaningful connections.


Health and Safety: Administer medications, provide first aid, assist with medical appointments, and monitor health conditions, ensuring optimal well-being. Safeguard individuals from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.


Advocacy and Rights: Utilize Person-Centered Thinking (PCT) and People First approaches to uphold and advocate for the rights, autonomy, and choices of individuals.


Individualized Support Plans: Collaborate with individuals to develop and implement customized support plans that build on strengths, choices, and capabilities, ensuring alignment with personal goals.


Documentation and Privacy: Maintain accurate, detailed documentation and respect the privacy and confidentiality of the individuals supported.


Collaboration and Communication: Build positive, collaborative relationships with individuals, colleagues, and other stakeholders, actively involving individuals in decision-making and supporting them in learning new skills across various settings.


Emergency and Safety Compliance: Be prepared to respond effectively to emergencies and ensure compliance with all safety standards and procedures, including fire and disaster planning.


Pathfinder's mission is to strengthen communities by enabling people with disabilities or economic challenges to achieve autonomy, inclusion, and stability.


Benefits & Pathfinder Perks - We Care About YOU!

Competitive Benefits Package (if applicable):

  • Competitive Pay & Paid Training - Earn while you learn with comprehensive training.
  • Paid Time Off & Holidays - Maintain a healthy work-life balance with PTO and paid holidays.
  • Comprehensive Insurance Coverage - Medical, Dental, and Vision plans to support your well-being.
  • Employer-Paid Coverage - Enjoy free Basic Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability (LTD).
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match - Plan for your future with a generous retirement savings plan and employer contributions.
  • Tuition Reimbursement - Invest in your future with financial assistance for continued education.
  • Professional Development & Training - Enhance your skills and career through learning opportunities.
  • Person-Centered Thinking Training - Gain valuable insights into individualized care and service.


Pathfinder Perks:

  • Wellness Platform Incentives - Earn rewards for prioritizing your health and well-being.
  • Financial Wellness Platform - Access earned wages before payday for added financial flexibility.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free, confidential support sessions for employees and their immediate household members.
  • Free Pathfinder Kids Clinic - Providing childcare for children in the community with minor illnesses.
  • Exclusive Discounts - Save with special offers, including:
  • Verizon Wireless Discount - Stay connected for less.
  • YMCA Discount - Enjoy reduced membership rates for fitness and wellness.


Pathfinder Values: People First - Integrity - Contribution - Growth - Empowerment


Requirements

Preferred Minimum Qualifications

  • Minimum of a high school diploma/GED.
  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Basic language, written, and computer skills necessary for communication and documentation.
  • Demonstrated ability to support people with disabilities.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule if needed.
  • Crisis prevention, intervention, and teaching skills.
  • Valid driver's license, insured vehicle, and safe driving record.
  • Ability to speak, hear, and read the English language.
  • Be able to run, squat, stoop/bend, kneel, climb stairs, lift up to 50 pounds, push and pull against potential resistance.  
  • Implement non-physical and approved physical interventions and CPR with people supported when needed.  
  • Shall have adequate vision, writing, and documentation skills to perform the job's essential functions.

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