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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Pulaski, TN (NOW HIRING)

Addus HomeCare

Direct Support Professional

Columbia, TN · On-site

$15.68/hr

Urgently hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSP). Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn the fundamentals of quality home care and deliver life-changing service to your clients. As an ...

BIOS GROUP

Direct Support Professional

Columbia, TN · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Bios, you're not just an employee, you're an owner and an advocate. Our DSPs play a hands-on role in supporting individuals with intellectual and ...

Waves, Inc.

Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Columbia, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Adult Services Residential Program Reports To: Residential Program Manager Position Overview: The Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Waves, Inc. plays ...

Waves, Inc.

Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Columbia, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Adult Services Residential Program Reports To: Residential Program Manager Position Overview: The Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Waves, Inc. plays ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Pulaski, TN

Direct Support Professional information

See Pulaski, TN salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Pulaski, TN is $16.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.26 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 Pulaski, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Pulaski, TN are:

What cities near Pulaski, TN are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Pulaski, TN with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Pulaski, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,354 per year, or $16 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Addus HomeCare

Columbia, TN

$15.68/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 hours ago

Addus HomeCare rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 242 rated social care providers

Job description

Pay rate now up to $15.68/HR.

Urgently hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSP).

Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn the fundamentals of quality home care and deliver life-changing service to your clients. As an Addus Direct Support Professional, youll play a vital role in supporting seniors and people with disabilities living independently. This rewarding, entry-level position provides consistent, flexible hours to accommodate your personal needs, while providing a great career with a growing, innovative industry leader.

If you have a genuine passion for helping others, and you are looking for a meaningful, fulfilling career with a dynamic, values-driven organization that recognizes and supports your contribution, we invite you to join our team.

We are urgently hiring DSP's in these cities; Lewisburg, TN - Pulaski, TN - Columbia, TN - Manchester, TN and many more locations.

DSP Benefits:

  • Daily & Weekly Pay Option
  • Travel reimbursement
  • Flexible schedule
  • Direct deposit

DSP Responsibilities:

  • Follow a care plan for the member and report on completed tasks
  • Assist people with personal care (bathing, dressing, etc.)
  • Support routine house cleaning, laundry, and assist with meal preparation
  • Transport member to appointments, daily errands, and other locations as necessary
  • Assist member with the self-administration of medications (no administering or measuring)
  • Observe and report any changes in member's condition

DSP Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED, and one year of in-home care services experience
  • Able to pass a criminal background check
  • Reliable transportation is required for member transportation.
  • Valid drivers license and proof of insurance is required.
  • Ability to work with limited supervision and follow written/verbal instructions
  • Good communication skillsReliable, energetic, self-motivated and well-organized
  • Comfortable using an electronic device

Despite challenging economic conditions caused by COVID-19 Addus HomeCare is still hiring DSP's in over 186 locations across the United States. Addus has implemented comprehensive safety policies based on CDC guidelines designed to promote workplace safety. We are providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including gloves, face masks, hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial soap to our employees.

We are offering virtual job interviews as a safety measure against COVID-19. Apply today and learn more about our current opportunities.

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