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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Ruston, LA (NOW HIRING)

Coast Professional

Accounting Clerk I

West Monroe, LA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Support onboarding processes and contract reviews by ensuring accurate initial data integration ... Effective professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills. * Strong ...

Coast Professional, Inc.

Accounting Clerk I

West Monroe, LA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Support onboarding processes and contract reviews by ensuring accurate initial data integration ... Effective professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills. * Strong ...

Winston Retail

Retail Support Merchandiser

Ruston, LA

$14 - $15/hr

Winston Retail is looking for motivated, detail-oriented retail professionals who thrive in both ... direct impact on the customer's experience while representing leading retail brands. The ideal ...

LSU AgCenter

Law Library Director

Hebert, LA

Supported by an annual budget of approximately $1.8 million, the library is currently undergoing an ... We welcome applications from candidates seeking either a tenure-track or professional practice ...

Daikin

Regional Rep Director

West Monroe, LA · Remote

Develop, track, and maintain direct and non-direct local relationship with key accounts ... Perform additional projects/duties to support ongoing business needs. Nature & Scope: * Develops ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Ruston, LA

Direct Support Professional information

See Ruston, LA salary details

$7

$13

$16

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Ruston, LA is $13.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.63 and $14.18 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 Ruston, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Ruston, LA are:

What cities near Ruston, LA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Ruston, LA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Ruston, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,342 per year, or $13.1 per hour.

DSW (Direct Support Worker)

A First Name Basis

Calhoun, LA • On-site

$10.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New

A First Name Basis rating

3.0

Company rating: 3.0 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Who we are:
A First Name Basis (AFNB) is one of the fastest-growing in-home care providers in the region, with 40+ offices across four states. We're reimagining what it means to serve seniors and individuals with disabilities-by building strong caregiver careers, implementing smart clinical and scheduling systems, and ensuring compliance and care quality are never compromised.
Why join us?
We believe in providing care that feels like family. We are looking for dedicated caregivers who want to make a difference in the lives of seniors and individuals with disabilities across Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, and South Carolina. Join a team that values compassion, respect, and teamwork.
Title: DSW (Direct Support Worker)
Location: Marksville, LA; Bunkie, LA; Simmesport, LA
Schedule: Full Time, Part Time, PRN,
Compensation: $10.50/hr
Responsibilities:
  • Provide personal care support including bathing, grooming, dressing, oral hygiene, toileting, etc.
  • Provide companionship and emotional support
  • Light housekeeping and meal preparation and assist with feeding as needed
  • Medication reminders and accompany clients to appointments
  • Monitor and report changes in client health and well-being
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly client environment
  • Ensure proper use of safety equipment
  • Document care provided according to company and regulatory standards
  • Travel reliably to patient homes and assigned visits across the service area
  • Complete required in-service training upon hire and annually
  • Ability to follow written care instructions and document services provided

Benefits:
  • Competitive hourly pay with overtime opportunities
  • Daily pay available
  • Flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle
  • Supportive and respectful team environment
  • 401(k) + employer match

Requirements
Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid ID and reliable transportation, and ability to travel to client homes
  • Ability to pass pre-employment screenings: background check and drug screen
  • Willingness to complete competency and skills assessments
  • Ability to work independently in home settings
  • Willingness to complete background screening and all onboarding requirements
  • A kind heart and a positive attitude, with compassion, patience, and professionalism with vulnerable populations

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift, transfer, and reposition clients weighing up to 50 lbs., with or without assistive equipment (gait belt, Hoyer lift).
  • Prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and stooping throughout shifts ranging from 4-12 hours.
  • Sufficient strength and stamina to assist with client mobility, including navigating stairs, uneven surfaces, and vehicle transfers.
  • Ability to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach.
  • Fine motor dexterity to assist with grooming, dressing, feeding, medication management, and operation of medical equipment.
  • Adequate vision and hearing to monitor client safety and detect changes in condition.
  • Ability to perform light household tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and carrying groceries.
  • Ability to work in a private home environment, including navigating varying layouts, tight spaces, and differing temperatures.

Preferred:
  • Active Home Health Aide or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.
  • Previous DSW (Direct Service Worker) Experience.
  • Previous Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Experience.

If you're ready to be the difference maker in someone's life - Apply today or drop in and see us on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays - we'll be waiting!
Salary Description
10.50

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