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

Fundamentals LLC

Be Seen First

Direct Support Professional

Wausau, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

We're looking for compassionate, motivated individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals/Behavioral Specialists. In this role, you'll work directly with children and youth, helping ...

Fundamentals LLC

Be Seen First

Direct Support Professional

Wausau, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

We're looking for compassionate, motivated individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals/Behavioral Specialists. In this role, you'll work directly with children and youth, helping ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Tomahawk, WI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Tomahawk, WI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Wausau, 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

Wausau, 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:

MyPath

Caregiver - Direct Support Professional

Merrill, WI · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community. MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse ...

MyPath

Caregiver - Direct Support Professional

Wausau, WI · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community. MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse ...

Mypath

Caregiver - Direct Support Professional

Weston, WI · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community. MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse ...

Mypath

Caregiver - Direct Support Professional

Wausau, WI · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community. MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse ...

Mypath

Caregiver - Direct Support Professional

Merrill, WI · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community. MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Merrill, WI

Direct Support Professional information

See Merrill, WI salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Merrill, WI is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $19.04 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.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Merrill, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Merrill, WI are:

What cities near Merrill, WI are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Merrill, WI with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Merrill, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,758 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Fundamentals LLC

Wausau, WI • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 1 hour ago

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Job description

At Fundamentals LLC, we don’t just provide support, we help transform lives. If you’re looking for meaningful work where you can see the impact of what you do, this is it.

We’re looking for compassionate, motivated individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals/Behavioral Specialists. In this role, you’ll work directly with children and youth, helping them build essential life skills, improve communication, and gain independence in their daily lives.

What You’ll Do

  • Work one-on-one or in small groups with youth to support behavioral and skill development
  • Implement individualized treatment plans using evidence-based strategies
  • Turn everyday moments into opportunities for growth and learning
  • Support youth in reducing challenging behaviors and building positive alternatives
  • Collaborate with a supportive, multidisciplinary team
  • Document progress and contribute to treatment planning

Why Join Fundamentals?

  • Competitive pay based on experience, education, and qualifications
  • Weekly pay
  • Career growth and ongoing training
  • Supportive, team-oriented environment
  • Hands-on, meaningful work where you see real progress

Full-time benefits include:

401(k) with match, health insurance, dental & vision, life insurance, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, hospital indemnity plans, PTO, holiday pay, mileage reimbursement, and disability coverage.

What We're Looking For

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record (preferred)
  • Strong work ethic and a positive, creative approach to problem-solving.
  • Must be 18+

Schedule & Program Details

Our Afterschool Program operates Monday-Friday from 1PM-8PM during the school year and transitions to daytime hours (between 7:30AM-4:30PM) during the summer months. Rotational Saturdays (9AM-4PM) are required year-round for Afterschool staff.

Join us and make a meaningful impact.