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

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Saint Peters, MO · On-site

$19.65/hr

Direct Support Professional - Get Paid Daily! Starting Pay: $19.65/hour Tired of "just a job?" Start a career that matters. At Sevita, we don't just provide care; we build lives. As a Direct Support ...

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

Direct Support Professional information

See Godfrey, IL salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Godfrey, IL is $15.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.25 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
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Godfrey, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Godfrey, IL are:
What cities near Godfrey, IL are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Godfrey, IL with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Godfrey, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,352 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Challenge Unlimited, Inc

Edwardsville, IL • On-site

$19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description:
We're seeking someone who is wanting to make make a meaningful difference every day by empowering individuals with disabilities to live independently, achieve their goals, and thrive in their communities. as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Challenge Unlimited, Inc/Residential Options in Edwardsville , IL.
No experience! No Problem! We provide all the PAID training needed to provide the best care.
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities need people in their lives who provide them with assistance and instruction on completing tasks most people take for granted. The people who provide this help and training are called Direct Support Professionals, or DSPs. At Residential Options, our DSPs work in residential settings helping our clients learn new skills, reach life goals, and turn houses into homes. DSP's report to the Director of Residential Options or Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP).
Position Summary:
  • Shift: Full-Time.
  • Hours: Evenings 2pm-10pm, 3pm-11pm, 4pm-12am (can be scheduled any of these shifts)
  • Weekends, mandated overtime and some holidays are included in schedule.
  • Salary: $19.75 dollars per hour
  • Location: Edwardsville , IL

Responsibilities:
  • Assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal hygiene, bathing, dressing, toileting, meal preparation, cooking, housekeeping, and laundry.
  • Support residents with medication administration and monitor for health and safety concerns.
  • Perform tasks necessary to maintain a safe living and working environment (i.e. cleaning, shoveling walks, etc.)
  • Provide transportation to appointments, shopping trips, recreational activities, and community events.
  • Foster a safe, welcoming, and home-like environment for residents.
  • Provide physical therapy and emotional support.
  • Encourage and support residents in achieving personal goals and increasing independence.
  • Assist with community integration, social engagement, travel training, and life skills development.
  • Implement individual support plans and treatment goals to promote growth and self-sufficiency.
  • Accurately document services provided, resident progress, behaviors, incidents, and health-related information.
  • Complete required reports and maintain resident records in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.
  • Follow all medication administration procedures, safety protocols, and documentation standards.
  • Communicate resident needs, concerns, and progress with supervisors and team members.
  • Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and resident planning meetings as assigned.
  • Follow company policies, OSHA standards, and all applicable health and safety regulations.
Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Must pass a criminal background check
  • Must pass a child abuse & neglect background check
  • Must pass a motor vehicle background check
  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver's license
  • Must pass state required CASAS literacy assessment prior to employment.
  • CPR, 1st Aid, Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI), Med Passing and DSP training provided by the company must be successfully completed within the first 4 months and annually thereafter to maintain the position
  • proficient with computer and typing skills.
Benefits:
  • Life Insurance
  • Medical with Rx & Vision
  • Dental
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Holiday Pay
  • Vacation
  • Unpaid Personal Days
  • Sick Days
  • Funeral Leave
  • 401K

EOE Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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