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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Kankakee, IL

Sevita

Direct Care Staff

Kankakee, IL · On-site

$19.45/hr

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

Sevita Health

Direct Care Staff

Kankakee, IL · On-site

$19.45/hr

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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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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 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,562 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

DSP( Direct Support Professional )/CNA(Certified Nursing Assistant)

Delta-T Group

Wilmington, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Company Description

Delta-T Group is a national broker and referral service for specialized types of healthcare and educational professionals. Our unique portfolio of services allows clients to access a strong team of professionals possessing a wide variety of experience and training while providing .

Our team of Account Managers and Staffing Coordinators work together to refer the highest caliber of professionals with degrees, certifications and licenses of varying levels in the fields of social services, psychiatry, occupational therapy, language speech pathology, special education teachers, para professionals, mental health, addictions treatment, allied therapies and pharmacy. We primarily provide service supplemental staffing services to school districts and charter schools, hospitals, community mental health centers, outpatient treatment facilities, and residential homes.

Job Description

DSP/CNA- Joliet, Shorewood, and Wilmington

Delta T Group is currently seeking Direct Support Professional to assist with the care of developmentally disabled individuals. DSP staff is reasonable for the delivery of quality services while promoting independence, health and safety of the consumers served. 

Position Summary:

Currently seeking a Direct Support Professionals (DSP), certified and non certified candidates as well as certified and non certified CNA's. All shifts available up to 40 hours a week, multiple locations in the South Suburbs.

Essential Duties: 

Provide direct care to individuals with developmental disabilities including assistance with activities of daily living.Such as assistance with daily skills, providing limited transportation using vehicles, and implementation and documentation of behavior support plans.

Certified and non certified Direct Support Professionals (DSP) and CNA's 

No experience necessary- will train and certify those without experience

Joliet, Shorewood, and Wilmington

Part time, Full time, and Shift work up to 40 hours per week

High School Diploma


Contact:

Gina Devine at Delta T to apply 

630-242-1726.





Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply