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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Worthington, OH

Dungarvin

Lead Direct Support Professional

Columbus, OH · On-site

$19.20/hr

A Lead Direct Support Professional is responsible for the coordination of services to the individuals served, including finance, medical, recreation, program services, family contact/involvement ...

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of May 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Worthington, OH is $15.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Direct Support Professional?

Direct support professionals (DSPs) provide non-medical care and services to intellectually or physically disabled persons. These services may be in the patient's home, at assisted living facilities, or in government institutions. The primary duties of DSPs are to help the patient with everyday tasks, such as taking medication, providing transportation to doctor's appointments, and running errands. DSPs also aim to teach patients life skills, including light housework and meal preparation, to enable them to be a little more independent.

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 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 Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)?

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 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.

More about Direct Support Professional jobs
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Worthington, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Worthington, OH are:
What cities near Worthington, OH are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Worthington, OH with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Worthington, OH as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,507 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Alliance Summit Group

Columbus, OH • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development

Job Title: Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time / PRN (Flexible Schedules Available)
Pay: $18-$20.00/hour (based on experience, medication certify)
Reports To: Program Manager / Residential Supervisor
About Us:
We are a mission-driven organization based in Columbus, Ohio, dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care to individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) play a critical role in empowering the people we serve to live meaningful, independent lives in the community.
Position Summary:
As a Direct Support Professional, you will provide hands-on support, supervision, and companionship to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in residential, day, or community-based settings. Your role is essential in helping individuals achieve their personal goals, maintain health and safety, and enhance their quality of life.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide direct care and supervision to individuals in accordance with individualized service plans (ISPs).
  • Support clients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and meal preparation.
  • Assist with medication administration and health-related tasks (training provided).
  • Foster community integration by accompanying individuals to appointments, recreational activities, and volunteer/work sites.
  • Document daily activities, progress notes, behavioral observations, and incidents accurately and timely.
  • Promote independence, dignity, and choice for all individuals supported.
  • Respond appropriately to crisis situations, using de-escalation techniques and behavioral support plans when necessary.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and positive environment in all settings.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record (preferred).
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
  • CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
  • Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or in a caregiving role preferred, but not required-training provided.
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
  • Compassionate, patient, and committed to person-centered care.

Benefits:
  • Competitive pay with shift differentials and overtime opportunities.
  • Paid training and professional development.
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance (for eligible employees).
  • Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay.
  • Supportive team environment and opportunities for advancement.

Work Environment:
This position may involve working in private homes, group homes, or community settings. Candidates must be comfortable with lifting, assisting with mobility, and providing personal care as needed.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit, and service needs.
To Apply: Submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and availability. We look forward to meeting compassionate individuals who are ready to make a difference!
Compensation: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
We genuinely care about our clients, our coworkers, our partners and our community. We care about the services we provide and positive outcomes for all our stakeholders.
We value who we are and who we serve. We recognize that each person is different, with different skills, background, knowledge, and experience. We all have something special to contribute!
We work to meet the needs of every client every time! No exceptions! No excuses! We are committed to providing great, safe service, going the extra mile for our clients and one another.
We encourage our employees to take action and give their best every day. We embrace an environment that empowers employees to lead and make decisions. We don't dwell on our problems, we fix them!

Apply