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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO

ATTUF Group LLC

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Denver, CO · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Role Summary As a DSP, you'll provide direct daily living support, skill development, and community ... Career advancement and ongoing professional development opportunities Why Join Attuf Group? * Make ...

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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 Aug 19, 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 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 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:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Highlands Ranch, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,552 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - Day Program

Developmental Disabilities Resource Center

Denver, CO • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Join our dynamic team at DDRC in Lakewood or Arvada, CO, as a Direct Support Professional! This onsite role is hands-on, deeply rewarding, and perfect for someone who enjoys building genuine connections and supporting others in a values-driven environment rooted in Dedication, Dignity, Respect, and Choice.

Schedule: Mon-Thursday 7:30am-4:30pm

Compensation

  • Rate of pay - $20.00/hour
  • Medical Benefits - $30/month for an individual (opportunity to add dependents) $750 deductible, 100% covered after.
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k) - 3% employer match
  • Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Vacation/Sick Accrual
  • Holiday Pay
  • Eligibility to participate in the Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Program
  • Partner with NADSP Badge Academy program

Job Responsibilities

As a DSP in our Day Program, you'll help people build skills, foster independence, and enjoy fulfilling days within a variety of settings.

What You'll Do

  • Coach essential life skills and encourage social engagement.
  • Provide individualized supports that help people develop or maintain skills to live life as independently as possible.
  • Lead or assist with creative, recreational, and communitybased activities.
  • Help people navigate their goals and preferences throughout the day.
  • Contribute to a fun, supportive, and engaging program environment.
  • Complete factual, timely documentation related to the people served.
  • Foster a strong sense of belonging and inclusion with people served, team mates and greater community.
  • Provide transportation using DDRC vehicles.

What You Bring to this Role

To excel as a Direct Support Professional at DDRC, a variety of essential skills and qualifications are necessary.

  • Strong preference for candidates possessing at least one year of paid work or related volunteer experience, particularly with individuals with developmental disabilities.
  • Empathy and a genuine passion for supporting others are vital.
  • Current driver's license along with a motor vehicle record that meets DDRC Policy.
  • Willingness to drive a large van and a variety of vehicles.
  • Basic computer skills will aid in necessary documentation.
  • Most importantly, a willingness to learn, a problem-solving mindset, and a compassionate spirit are essential traits that will empower you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you serve.

DDRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Developmental Disabilities Resource Center: Our Story

At DDRC, we are dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and supporting their families. Serving our community since 1964, DDRC has remained a cornerstone in providing essential resources, services, and advocacy to foster inclusion and opportunity for those we serve. Offering an array of services from Early Intervention to adult services including residential and employment support, our comprehensive services are designed to help individuals thrive at every stage of life. With the support of over 300 passionate staff members, DDRC remains committed to creating a world where everyone is valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

DDRC is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

ENVIRONMENT & CULTURE:

  • Work is performed in a variety of settings, including DDRC facilities and community-based environments, where individuals are supported in daily activities and community participation.
  • The role may involve physical engagement throughout the workday, including standing, walking, sitting, bending, kneeling, reaching, and assisting with positioning or use of adaptive equipment, consistent with training and individual support plans.
  • Activities may include assisting individuals with mobility, use of wheelchairs or adaptive equipment, and participation in services or community-based activities.
  • Work may involve assisting with program setup, materials, or equipment related to activities and services.
  • The environment may include exposure to typical community and program conditions, including varied indoor and outdoor settings.
  • The position involves regular interaction with individuals supported, coworkers, and community members, and may require adapting to changing environments and participant needs throughout the day.
  • Travel within the community may be required based on assigned services and program needs.
  • Our team is dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can thrive. We're a mission-driven organization that values commitment, teamwork, and long-term growth our average employee tenure is 9 years.

Apply