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Direct Support Professionals Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Bios Corporation

Direct Support Professional

Columbia, TN · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Bios Direct Support Professionals (DSP's) work hands on as a Caregiver/Companion with people with intellectual disabilities to teach skills and provide supports to allow people to live as ...

Bios Corporation

Direct Support Professional

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

Bios Direct Support Professionals (DSP's) work hands on as a Caregiver/Companion with people with intellectual disabilities to teach skills and provide supports to allow people to live as ...

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How much do direct support professionals jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professionals in Tennessee is $14.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $15.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 solid understanding of client care, basic healthcare practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation software, incident reporting systems, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal communication, and problem-solving skills help build trust and provide effective support to individuals with disabilities. These skills are essential for ensuring client safety, promoting independence, and fostering a positive, supportive environment.

What are Direct Support Professionals?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. They provide support with personal care, medication management, and skill-building activities to promote independence and community involvement. DSPs work in various settings, including private homes, group homes, and day programs. Their role is crucial in helping individuals achieve their personal goals and live fulfilling lives.

What are some common challenges Direct Support Professionals face when supporting individuals with varying needs, and how can they effectively address them?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as communicating with individuals who have diverse abilities, managing behavioral crises, and adapting support strategies to each person's unique needs. Building trust and using person-centered approaches are key to overcoming these challenges. Effective professionals rely on ongoing training, teamwork, and open communication with supervisors and other care team members to ensure the highest quality of care and safety for those they support.

What is the difference between Direct Support Professionals vs Personal Care Assistants?

AspectDirect Support ProfessionalsPersonal Care Assistants
CertificationsOften require certifications like CPR, First Aid, and sometimes specialized trainingMay require similar certifications, but less frequently mandated
Work EnvironmentAssist individuals with disabilities in community, residential, or healthcare settingsProvide personal care in private homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, government agencies, healthcare providersHome healthcare agencies, private clients, assisted living facilities

Both roles involve providing personal care and support, but Direct Support Professionals typically work with individuals with disabilities in various settings and often require specific certifications. Personal Care Assistants mainly focus on assisting with daily living activities in private homes or healthcare environments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professionals jobs in Tennessee? For Direct Support Professionals jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professionals jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professionals jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Direct Support Professionals jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Direct Support Professionals job openings:
Direct Support Professionals jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professionals job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,742 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
Direct Support Professionals Needed

Direct Support Professionals Needed

Stars Inc

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Stars Behavioral Health Group rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Salary: $15 Hourly

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professional for individuals with intellectual disabilities. As a Direct Support Professional you will provide essential support and companionship to individuals with intellectual disabilities, helping them lead fulfilling and independent lives within their home and community.


Responsibilities:


Assist individuals with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and household chores.

Develop positive and supportive relationships with individuals with intellectual disabilities, fostering a sense of trust, safety, and belonging.

Accompany individuals to appointments, recreational activities, and community outings, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.

Provide emotional support, active listening, and empathy to individuals during times of distress or uncertainty.

Implement person-centered plans and individualized support strategies, respecting each individual's preferences, strengths, and goals.

Document daily activities, observations, and progress notes accurately and in a timely manner, maintaining confidentiality and adhering to HIPPA regulations.

Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members, including case managers, healthcare professionals, and family members, to ensure coordinated care.

Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills in supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.


Qualifications:


High school diploma or equivalent required.

Previous experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities or in a similar caregiving role preferred but not required.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and establish trusting relationships with individuals and their families.

Compassionate, patient, and empathetic demeanor, with a genuine desire to support and empower individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility, adaptability, and problem-solving skills in a dynamic environment.

Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.

Ability to pass a background check and drug screening in accordance with state regulations.


Working Conditions:


This position requires flexible scheduling in case the need arises.


Work environment includes group residence, and community settings.

Physical requirements may including lifting, bending, stooping, and assisting individuals with mobility limitations as needed.


First Aid and CPR Training will be provided.


Join our team and make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Apply today!

STARS, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

What Stars Behavioral Health Group employees say

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