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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO

Direct Support Professional

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Provide Personalized Support : Assist individuals with hygiene care, meal preparation, and household tasks tailored to their specific needs and preferences. * Transportation and Accompaniment:

Direct Support Professional

Arvada, CO ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Provide Personalized Support : Assist individuals with hygiene care, meal preparation, and household tasks tailored to their specific needs and preferences. * Transportation and Accompaniment:

Direct Support Professional

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Provide Personalized Support : Assist individuals with hygiene care, meal preparation, and household tasks tailored to their specific needs and preferences. * Transportation and Accompaniment:

Direct Support Professional

Arvada, CO ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Provide Personalized Support : Assist individuals with hygiene care, meal preparation, and household tasks tailored to their specific needs and preferences. * Transportation and Accompaniment:

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Direct Support Professional information

See Highlands Ranch, CO salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Highlands Ranch, CO is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)?

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.

What Is a Direct Support Professional?

Direct support professionals (DSPs) provide non-medical care and services to intellectually or physically disabled persons. These services may be in the patient's home, at assisted living facilities, or in government institutions. The primary duties of DSPs are to help the patient with everyday tasks, such as taking medication, providing transportation to doctor's appointments, and running errands. DSPs also aim to teach patients life skills, including light housework and meal preparation, to enable them to be a little more independent.

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO are:
What cities near Highlands Ranch, CO are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Highlands Ranch, CO with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Highlands Ranch, CO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,552 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional

Support, Inc.

Aurora, CO โ€ข On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description


Department: Day Services
Position Status: Full/Part Time
Pay Range: Up to $22 to start and based on experience
City:ย Aurora
Bring your energy, creativity, and passion for people to a career that makes a real impact! Weโ€™re looking for someone outgoing and enthusiastic to join our day program team, supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Youโ€™ll lead fun, meaningful activities both in the community and at our center, helping individuals grow new skills, make lasting connections, and reach their personal goals, all in an inclusive, team-focused environment where every day is different and rewarding
Key Responsibilities:

  • Promote Community Integration: Plan and facilitate activities that support social development and inclusion, such as visits to parks, museums, community events, and recreational centers.ย 

  • Provide Personalized Support: Assist individuals with hygiene care, meal preparation, and household tasks tailored to their specific needs and preferences.ย 

  • Transportation and Accompaniment: Provide transportation and accompany individuals to appointments, errands, and outings, ensuring safety and engagement.ย 

  • Medical Assistance: Support individuals with medical care, including scheduling and attending appointments, administering medications, and monitoring overall health.ย 

  • Skill Development: Offer training and guidance in life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and daily living activities to foster independence.ย 

  • Document Progress: Maintain accurate and timely documentation of progress notes, medical records, and activity logs.ย 

  • Flexible Scheduling: Work hours will vary based on the needs of the individuals supported.ย 


Join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with IDD through engaging activities, community involvement, and personalized support that fosters independence and inclusion.
Why Youโ€™ll Love It:
  • Youโ€™ll get to hang out with an awesome group of people every day.
  • Youโ€™ll have the chance to plan and do cool stuff in a way thatโ€™s never boring.
  • Youโ€™ll help others grow their confidence, independence, and social circles while making memories that last a lifetime.

Make a difference in the lives of individuals with IDD by fostering meaningful relationships, enhancing community connections, and empowering personal growth in both residential and community settings.
What It Takes to Be a Rockstar Candidate:
Active and Engaged: You enjoy being out in the community, participating in events, and trying new activities.
Tech-Savvy: Youโ€™re comfortable with basic computer tasks like sending emails and completing documentation.
Background Check Ready: Youโ€™re prepared to pass a background check with no issues.
Reliable Transportation: You have a dependable vehicle, valid driverโ€™s license, and current auto insurance.
Education: Youโ€™ve completed high school or have a GED.
Experience Preferred: Some understanding or experience working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities is a bonus.
If youโ€™re dependable, enthusiastic, and ready to make a difference, weโ€™d love to have you join the team!
Minimum Physical Expectations for This Role:
  • Ability to lift and transfer individuals weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance, to support client mobility and comfort.
  • Frequent physical activity, including bending, kneeling, squatting, and standing, to assist with daily tasks and activities.
  • Capacity to provide hands-on assistance during restroom routines, including transfers and hygiene support.
  • Physical stamina to actively engage in community outings and recreational activities with clients.
  • Ability to safely operate a vehicle and assist individuals in and out of the car as needed.


Candidates must be comfortable with the physical demands of the role to ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals supported.
Why Support, Inc.?
At Support Inc., youโ€™ll be part of a passionate team of people helping people!ย  We are making a real difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We value creativity, growth, and community, offering a supportive environment where your work truly matters.
Join us to build meaningful connections, grow your skills, and be part of something bigger!
Full time employees enjoy . . .
Competitive Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance options
Generous progressive PTO
Paid initial and ongoing training, including Relias, Safety Care, CPR/First Aid and QMAP
Paid Holidays
Quarterly awards and gifts
Many additional
ย Benefit options, including Pet insurance!
Flexibility and opportunities for growth
Options to work overtime at events or with additional shifts & clients
Mileage reimbursement
Ongoing support
Rewarding independent work
And much more!

Support, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/D/V

We are required by state and federal agencies to keep certain statistical records on applicants. It will not be used in any way to discriminate against you because of your sex, race, age, sexual orientation, creed, national origin, disability or military status, gender identity, unless related to a bona fide occupational qualification as defined by the Colorado Civil Rights Commission and the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster with unsolicited services or offers.

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