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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Stevens Point, WI

Cornerstone Caregiving

Direct Support Professional

Wautoma, WI · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

We are committed to providing exceptional care to individuals in need. Our caregivers are highly trained and compassionate, with a passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others. With ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Stevens Point, WI salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Stevens Point, WI is $15.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.02 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.
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What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Stevens Point, WI look for?

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

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

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

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Stevens Point, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,892 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) -Community Support Mentor-Day Services

Opportunity Development Centers Inc

Waupaca, WI • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago

Job description

JOB HIGHLIGHTS
Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Community Day Aide Qualifications:
  • High School graduate
  • One (1) year of experience working with persons with disabilities or in nursing or home health care positions. Can be as a volunteer or familiar experience.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Community Day Aide Responsibilities:
  • Ability to support individuals in ODC's Day Services programming by providing life-enhancing activities that incorporate
    • daily living skills
    • community and social awareness
    • leisure, recreational and educational activities
  • Ability to perform personal cares in a discreet, respectful manner (ie: toileting, eating, mobility, behaviors)
  • Ability to creatively problem solve as needs arise for individuals in house or in the community
  • Valid driver's license with good driving record and insured vehicle available for daily use
  • This position requires use of a company email address which requires an application to be downloaded on your personal cell phone for multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure cyber security.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Community Day Aide Benefits:
  • Great Work/Life Balance with Generous PTO and Paid Holidays
  • Full Benefits Package including Health, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life Insurance, etc. (FT employees)
  • 401(k) with 4% Company Match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement
  • Dependent Care Flex Spending Accounts to help you save on Daycare Costs (FT employees)
  • Pet Insurance

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Community Day Aide Schedule:
  • Monday - Friday
  • 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
  • Schedule can be flexible

Why Choose ODC:
Here at ODC, we are dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to achieve their work and life goals. We are dedicated to building and supporting a welcoming work environment, one where employees feel a sense of belonging, and are valued for their contributions and the perspectives they bring. Our purpose is to champion the power of human connection and the heart of connection is inclusion. You belong here. ODC, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

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