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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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Direct Support Professionals information

See Tennessee salary details

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$14

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How much do direct support professionals jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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.

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 cities with a strong focus on healthcare, social services, or specialized care often offer higher pay rates for these roles. Additionally, certifications and experience can influence salary levels across different locations.

What do you do as a direct support professional?

A direct support professional provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs to help them live independently and participate in daily activities. Their duties include personal care, medication management, skill development, and ensuring safety, often working in clients' homes or community settings. They may also document progress and communicate with families or healthcare teams, typically requiring training and certifications such as CPR and first aid.

What qualifications do I need for a direct support professional job?

To become a direct support professional, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to complete training or certification in areas such as first aid, CPR, or behavioral support. Some positions also require background checks and good communication skills to work effectively with individuals with disabilities or special needs.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,742 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professionals Needed

Stars Inc

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 16 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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