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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Irmo, SC (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Support Professional information

See Irmo, SC salary details

$8

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Irmo, SC is $13.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.78 and $14.33 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.

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Irmo, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Irmo, SC are:

What cities near Irmo, SC are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Irmo, SC with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Irmo, SC 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 $27,657 per year, or $13.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) II: OIDD - Whitten

State of South Carolina

Cayce, SC • On-site

$37K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: $37,440.00 Annually
Location : Laurens County, SC
Job Type: FTE - Full-Time
Job Number: 191178
Agency: Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
Division: Whitten Regional Center
Opening Date: 08/01/2026
Closing Date: 8/31/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Class Code:: EC53
Position Number:: Multiple Positions
Normal Work Schedule:: Other
Pay Grade: GEN03
Hiring Range - Min.: $37,440.00
Hiring Range - Max.: $37,440.00
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education using verifiable dates.
Normal Work Schedule (Other):: 1st shift (6:45 am - 3:15 pm); 2nd shift (2:45 pm - 11:15 pm); 3rd shift (10:45 pm - 7:15 am). In accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, employees may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster.
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.
Job Responsibilities
Are you passionate about making a real difference in people's lives? Join our team at the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD), Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (OIDD) where we are dedicated to providing compassionate and accessible care to our community. We are seeking Direct Support Professionals who are motivated to help individuals and families navigate life's challenges and achieve long-term wellness. If you want to use your skills to build a healthier, more resilient community, we encourage you to apply.
$1,000.00 Sign-On Bonus Available!
Under the direct supervision of the Direct Support Professional III this position serves as a mid-level direct support professional.
  • Ensures health and safety of each consumer while following the prescribed behavior support plan (BSP), dining protocol, lifting protocol, and training and service programs as outlined in their individual support plan. Provides guidance and mentoring to entry-level Direct Support Professionals on an on-going basis. As an essential employee, will be required to work overtime to ensure consumer safety and supervision depending on various activities and hazardous weather conditions. Reports to duty as outlined in policy and procedures and assumes accountability of the assigned individual(s).
  • In accordance with Agency and Office guidelines, rules, and regulations, follows sound professional techniques while providing direct, hands-on individual care to all consumers as needed. Participates in training and provides guidance to consumers in the development of activities of daily living skills. Transports and monitors consumers to and from off campus appointments, programs, and activities.
  • In accordance with ICF-IID active treatment standards, implements training and service programs as outlined in the individual support plan, assists with daily activities, and engages consumers in group activities.
  • In keeping with the individual support plan, completes timely and accurate data collection and/or assessments. Maintains documentation in compliance with Agency and Office policies and procedures. Provides input and engages as an active member of the interdisciplinary team. Participates in team meetings and scheduled staff meetings as required.
  • Responsible for reporting significant events and suspected abuse immediately per Agency and Office policies and procedures.
  • Ensures safe, orderly, neat, clean environment for all consumers.
    Responsible for following all Agency and Office policies and procedures and may be required to perform additional duties as required.

Positions for this posting are located at Whitten Regional Center, an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF-IID) of BHDD-OIDD located in Clinton, SC serving residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
**In accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, employees may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster.**
This position is eligible for up to $3.50/hour shift differential for applicable shifts!
Sign-on bonus for eligible candidates will be distributed after three, six, nine, and twelve months of successful continuous Full-Time employment.
Minimum and Additional Requirements
A High School Diploma or GED, and three (3) years of experience working with Individuals with Disabilities and Special Needs.
Preferred Qualifications
Administrative abilities and general knowledge of intellectual disabilities. Basic computer skills to include the use of Therap and SCEIS Central for time and leave purposes (Electronic Documentation System). Knowledge of relevant federal and state regulations and basic safety practices. A valid Driver's License.
Physical abilities including lifting, pushing, standing, stooping, kneeling, and running. Ability to work with individuals who may be physically aggressive or medically fragile. Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally. Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments for certain periods of time.
Additional Comments
Employment Contingency: Employment is contingent upon our receipt of the following required pre-employment screenings: medical screening - to include a drug screening; background record checks (to include fingerprinting), South Carolina Department of Social Services' Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry screening, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General "List of Excluded Individuals/Entities" screening; South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles Driving Record check; and a review of transcripts verifying educational credentials. We reserve the right to rescind an offer of employment in the event minimum requirements are not met to include positions that require certifications and/or licensure, your application is incomplete or inaccurate, or our review of your background uncovers information, including opinions of previous employers and references, which cause us to conclude, at our sole discretion, that you are not suited for the position. Immunization: If this position requires the applicant to work directly with consumers of The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, tuberculosis (TB) skin or blood testing must be completed prior to beginning employment. All new employees who are healthcare providers are required to provide documentation of immunity or be immunized against measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, Varicella and Hepatitis B prior to beginning employment.
State Disaster Plan: In accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, employees of The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster.
Employee Referral: The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities supports a Referral Incentive Reward and a Retention Bonus program. You may contact Human Resources for further information.
Supplemental Questions: Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the State application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.
The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.
The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:
  • Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click for additional information.
  • 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
  • 15 days sick leave per year
  • 13 paid holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available
  • Retirement benefit choices*
    • State Retirement Plan
    • State Optional Retirement Program

Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.
Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.
Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.
Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.
Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.
01
Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted or reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position. Please indicate your understanding and acknowledgement of the above statement by checking the box below.
  • Checking this box indicates my understanding and acknowledgement to the above referenced statement.

02
Do you have at least a High School Diploma or GED, and three (3) years of professional experience working with Individuals with Disabilities and Special Needs?
  • Yes
  • No

03
How many years of professional experience do you currently possess working with the direct support of persons with intellectual and related disabilities?
  • None
  • 1 to 2 years
  • 3 to 5 years
  • 6 or more years

04
This is a direct care position, requiring in some circumstances, bathing, cleaning and the changing of adult briefs of individual consumers. Are you willing to bathe, clean, and change adult briefs?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Hours of operation are: 1st shift: 6:45 am - 3:15 pm; 2nd shift: 2:45 pm - 11:15 pm; 3rd shift: 10:45 pm - 7:15 am. Which shift(s) are you available for (check all that apply)?
  • 1st shift: 6:45 am - 3:15 pm
  • 2nd shift: 2:45 pm - 11:15 pm
  • 3rd shift: 10:45 pm - 7:15 am

06
I acknowledge that, in accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, I may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster.
  • Yes
  • No

07
If you were referred by an OIDD Employee, please list the name of the employee below.
Required Question

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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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