ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Professional Jobs in Kankakee, IL

Trinity Services, Inc.

Direct Support Professional

Elwood, IL · On-site

$23.05 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

The supports and services provided will be done in a dignified, respectful, and professional manner ... direct support work * Letter of references from both: a) a person supported previously AND b) a ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Bourbonnais, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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:

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Bourbonnais, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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:

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Bourbonnais, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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:

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Bourbonnais, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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:

CTF Illinois

DIRECT SERVICE PERSON- 184th/ Frankfort

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$21.30 - $23.30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a direct support professional, you would work in one of our group homes. Together, as a team, our DSP's support our individuals by helping them live as independently as possible, ensuring they are ...

CTF Illinois

DIRECT SERVICE PERSON- 184th/ Frankfort

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$21.30 - $23.30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a direct support professional, you would work in one of our group homes. Together, as a team, our DSP's support our individuals by helping them live as independently as possible, ensuring they are ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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

Direct Support Professional information

See Kankakee, IL salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Kankakee, IL is $15.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $16.88 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 are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Kankakee, IL?

For Direct Support Professional jobs in Kankakee, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Kankakee, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Kankakee, IL are:

What cities near Kankakee, IL are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Kankakee, IL with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Kankakee, 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 $32,562 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - Crete

Sertoma Star Services

Crete, IL

$19.60 - $19.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional - Crete
Department: Residential
Open shifts by Group Home
Beckwith
● Sat 8a-8p; Sun 8a-8p
Deborah
● Evening-Sun 8am-8:30pm; Mon - Every other Wed 3pm-11:30pm
Dorsetshire
● none
Gloucester
● Every Wed 3p-11:30p; Tur-Fri 3p-11:30p; Sat 8a-8p
Williams Court
● Sunday 8pm-8:30am; Mon-Every other Wed 11pm-8:30am
Wingate
● Every Wed 3p-11:30p; Tur-Fri 3p-11:30p; Sat 8a-8:30p
- Valid Illinois driver's license required
- Paid training for Direct Support Professional certification
Who We Are
At Sertoma Star Services, we're on a mission to empower individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and those living with mental illness to reach their goals and lead fulfilling lives. With a strategic presence in South Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, we proudly serve over 2,000 consumers through a diverse range of vocational, educational, therapeutic, and residential programs.
Sertoma Star Services’ roots trace back to the merger of two dynamic social services organizations, New Star and Sertoma Centre combining over 125 years of expertise in providing cutting-edge, person-first services. Our united commitment is straightforward: to transform lives through delivering comprehensive services, choices, and opportunities to those we support in an environment that promotes self-advocacy and personal success.
By joining the Sertoma Star Team you will have a unique opportunity to challenge limits and change lives. Together, we can shape a brighter future for those we serve.
Your Role
As a Service Facilitator (Direct Support Professional), you will provide support and supervision to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities within the residential setting. In collaboration with the House Supervisor, you will help facilitate day-to-day services for the Residential Consumers within your assigned home. With your support, the consumers are empowered to take ownership of their homes, participate in their local community, and learn skills that promote independence and joy. The Service Facilitator is essential to Sertoma's mission of providing compassionate care and ensuring services are delivered in a person-centered manner.
Responsibilities
  • Develop a rapport with consumers and cultivate a safe and supportive relationship.
  • Provide supervision and guidance for consumers during skill-building activities; assist with goals and objectives.
  • Document the implementation of the goals, objectives, and service objectives.
  • Update consumer case notes on a daily basis.
  • Oversee the consumers’ medication.
  • Assist with daily living activities, including preparing meals and assisting with personal hygiene.
  • Transport consumers to various activities and appointments.
  • Maintain a clean and safe environment within the home and its grounds by assisting consumers in cleaning and other household chores as necessary.
Qualifications
  • A High School Diploma or GED specifically recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services is required.
  • One year of experience working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred
  • Valid Illinois driver's license with a clean driving record (no violations within the past 5 years).
  • Demonstrated 8th-grade reading level as evidenced by standardized testing recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services.
  • Completion of all required DSP training within 120 days of hire and maintenance of required certifications. Completion of Medication Administration and maintenance of certification.
  • Must be willing to work in other CILA homes as deemed necessary in order to provide the best quality care to all individuals served.
Benefits
  • Generous paid time off
  • 13 Paid holidays
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans
  • Employer Paid Insurance: Basic Life/AD amp;D and Long-Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 403(b) with company match
  • Tuition assistance
  • Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  • Ongoing training and development opportunities
Health, Safety, and Culture
Sertoma Star is an equal opportunity employer that embraces the uniqueness of every person. Sertoma understands that in order for you to work effectively and be an advocate of inclusivity, we must foster an environment that is respectful and sensitive to persons of all gender identities and from every cultural, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, and racial background. Our open-door, team-building concept supports both agency goals and employee success.

Apply