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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Kankakee, IL

Professional Advisor

Campus, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in ... Supports the mission of the University and serves as an ambassador of the Q2 culture of service ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

What to Expect High tempo, mission critical work supporting around the clock operations and watch ... Direct enlistment into IT, CTN, or IS pipelines from civilian life based on aptitude, security ...

Medical Director Veterinarian- Plum Creek

Crete, IL · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Relocation assistance and student loan support * Commuter stipend for gas and tolls * Future ... Paid CE allowance and professional dues * Strong DVM mentor network We're Looking For * Full time ...

Qualified Mental Health Professional

Kankakee, IL · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mental Health Program Director Job Type: Full Time, Salary or Hourly, Exempt Job Location: Kankakee ... Services and support should be provided in ways that are considerate of individual's dignity and ...

Qualified Mental Health Professional

Kankakee, IL · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mental Health Program Director Job Type: Full Time, Salary or Hourly, Exempt Job Location: Kankakee ... Services and support should be provided in ways that are considerate of individual's dignity and ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support Professional information

See Kankakee, IL salary details

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$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.

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:

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.

Coordinator - Professional Development: Classified & Pro-Tech

Douglas County School District (CO)

Campus, IL

$82K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Please complete this application using your full legal name as it appears on your government issued forms of identification when you have time to go from start to finish. Application details cannot be saved along the way, and you must complete and submit the application in one sitting. If you leave your computer and return later, you may time out.

REMINDER: Current DCSD employees must apply through their district log-on, this application is for external candidates only!

Job Posting Title:Coordinator - Professional Development: Classified & Pro-TechJob Description:Leads in the assessment, planning, delivery, and evaluation of comprehensive, professional development programs for classified/pro-tech district employees. Aligns all professional development to DCSD's Strategic Plan, Superintendent and Board of Education goals. Secures the necessary resources and provides guidance for the programs of the Professional Development department. Develops and promotes excellent relationships among various department, school and community clientele.
EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES USED:
General office equipment
May require travel around 900 square mile district using personal vehicle.
SUPERVISORY DUTIES:
Direct supervision of content trainers
ESSENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
Mostly clean and comfortable
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Occasional lifting five (5) to ten (10) pounds
Frequent sitting
Occasional bending, squatting, or standingPosition Specific Information (if Applicable):

Minimum Expwerience:

  • Two (2) to three (3) years' experience in training of adults
  • Experience in developing comprehensive PD for departments
  • One (1) year experience in K-12 education environment
  • Experience with Google Apps
Responsibilities:

Create and implement a monitoring process to assess impact of professional development

Work with the director to plan comprehensive PD for all classified and pro-tech staff

Design and deliver Professional Development offerings to support District leadership

Perform other related duties as assigned or requested

Develop and implement professional development classes for Classified/ProTech employees throughout the District

Conduct needs assessments, plan, coordinate, monitor and evaluate the professional development needs of Classified/ProTech district employees (individually and as a part of a team)

Provide leadership in the development of new training opportunities for departments

Support professional development using current technology and software applications related to course delivery

Coach DCSD Classified/ProTech employees in content and delivery

Align all work to DCSD strategic plan

Work Experience:Certifications:Valid Colorado Driver's License - State of ColoradoEducation:Bachelor's DegreeSkills:Ability to solve problems in an efficient and timely manner, Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to support positive outcomes, Demonstrates commitment to continuous learning, Demonstrates experience working with adult learners, Effective oral and written communication skills., Has the ability to work independently, Maintains a generally positive attitude., Observes all District policies and procedures., Strong organizational and time management skills, Verbal and written communication skills in English and a demonstrated ability to read and comprehend written/graphic and oral instructionsPosition Type:RegularPrimary Location:Legacy CampusOne Year Only (Yes or No):No


 

Scheduled Hours Per Week:40


 

FTE:1.00Approx Scheduled Days Per Year:260 Work Days
  • (260 days indicatesa year-round position. Time off [or Off-Track Days] are thengranted based on the position. Any exceptions to the normal off-track time will be noted in the Additional Position Details section above, as scheduled work days.)
Minimum Hire Rate: $82,703.30 USD AnnualMaximum Hire Rate: $101,833.20 USD AnnualFull Salary Range:$82,703.30 USD - $120,963.10 USD Annual
  • All salary amounts listed above are based on a full-time (1.0) FTE. If applicable, part-time salaries will be prorated according to the assigned FTE.
Benefits:This position is eligible for health, vision, dental, health savings account (HSA), flexible spending accounts (FSA), District paid and voluntary additional (supplemental) life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, short and long-term disability, critical illness and accident voluntary insurance, employee assistance program (EAP), voluntary 401(k), 403(b) and 457 retirement plan options. There is also a voluntary 403(b) savings plan with up to 4% District match for up to 5 years from date of hire.Time Off Plans:This position is eligible for paid off-track, sick and personal time.This position will be open until filled, but will not be open past:November 3, 2026