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Direct Support Professionals Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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How much do direct support professionals jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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 - Franklin

Direct Support Professionals - Franklin

Assisted Family Care, LLC

Franklin, TN • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Greetings from Assisted Family Care!
Assisted Family Care is committed to hiring enthusiastic, and caring professionals who thrive on making a difference in the lives of others! We are looking for compassionate and dedicated caregivers to assist our Intellectually/ Developmentally Disabled clients in their homes and community (within the Franklin TN area) with activities of independent living.
Now hiring direct support to assist our Intellectually Disabled community. Variety of ages and disabilities from Down Syndrome, Autistic disorders to Moderate Intellectual disabilities. Areas needing service, Davidson,Rutherford, Williamson Counties and Others. Various shifts - full schedule or part time.
TASKS:
  • INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILL TRAINING
  • TRANSPORT INTO THE COMMUNITY
  • COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
  • HOUSEHOLD ASSISTANCE

WHAT WE OFFER
  • Direct Deposit
  • Pay $20-25 per hour
  • Flexible Schedule
  • Relias Training
  • Next Day Pay Offered
  • Work-Life Balance
  • Equal Opportunity Employer
  • Potential Bonus Opportunities

Qualifications
  • Enjoy working in a one-on-one setting, eager to improve and continuously learn new skills
  • Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without accommodations
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation every single day
  • Able to pass Abuse Registry, Criminal background, and Motor Vehicle background checks
  • Prior experience in healthcare, hospitality, or in-home care environment (minimum of 6 months)
  • Willingness to enforce health and safety standards
  • Supportive and compassionate

Apply