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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Mypath

Direct Support Professional

Johnson Creek, WI

$21/hr

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide support, supervision, and engagement to students in their living ...

Mypath

Direct Support Professional

Watertown, WI

$19/hr

Overview We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join Prader-Willi Homes that has open availability to work 1st and 2nd shifts! Competitive pay starting at ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Jefferson, WI · On-site

$14 - $17.25/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

Direct Support Professional

Madison, WI · On-site

$15/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

Direct Support Professional

Johnson Creek, WI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/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

Direct Support Professional

Johnson Creek, WI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/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

Direct Support Professional

Janesville, WI · On-site

$15/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

Direct Support Professional

Janesville, WI · On-site

$15/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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Direct Support Professional information

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Madison, WI is $16.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $17.69 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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,135 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Consumer Direct Care Network

Sun Prairie, WI

$17.50/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Consumer Direct Care Network rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 239 rated social care providers

Job description

Description & Requirements
If you would like more information about our company, you can visit our website here: Who We Are - CDWI
This is a heartwarming opportunity for compassionate providers who love making a difference! We work with members throughout Wisconsin to find providers that fit each of their needs. Our goal is to help individuals be in more control of their own supports and to have a say in who is assisting them. This helps them to stay in their own homes as long as possible.

We are seeking an experienced Caregiver or Direct Support Professional who is easy-going, animal-loving, and enjoys helping others. Position is flexible on start times.

Location: Columbus, WI
Wage: $17.50 an hour
Mileage reimbursement

Schedule/Shifts:
26 hours per week
Saturday and Sunday
Monday and Thursday
Flexible start time hours, Up to 30 minutes mileage one way
3.5 hours in AM & 3 hours in PM

Job Duties:
Transfers to and from bed and wheelchair, and toilet
Sponge or in-shower bathing
Dressing, grooming
Assist with toileting
ROM (range of motion) in AM
Empty catheter bag
Accompany shopping
Meal prep
Laundry
Housekeeping
Assist transfer of client safely

Requirements:
Previous experience is  preferred/highly desirable
Must pass a background check

If you need additional support, please connect with: KristieM@consumerdirectcare.com

What Consumer Direct Care Network employees say

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