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Direct Support Professionals Jobs in Atlanta, GA

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Direct Support Professionals information

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How much do direct support professionals jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professionals in Atlanta, GA is $15.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $17.21 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 Atlanta, GA? For Direct Support Professionals jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professionals jobs in Atlanta, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professionals jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
What cities near Atlanta, GA are hiring for Direct Support Professionals jobs? Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most Direct Support Professionals job openings:
Direct Support Professionals jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professionals job openings in Atlanta, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,572 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Hiring Event - Direct Support Professionals & Team Leads

United Cerebral Palsy of GA

Tucker, GA • On-site

$17 - $21.64/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia is hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and Team Leads (TL) throughout the Metro Atlanta area, and we invite you to attend our upcoming hiring event. This is a great opportunity to learn more about our organization, meet our leadership team, and explore immediate employment opportunities. Qualified candidates will be selected for on-the-spot interviews!

At UCP of Georgia, our mission is to positively support and impact the achievement of a Life Without Limits for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are looking for compassionate, reliable, and dedicated individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

Event Details

Date: August 4, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: The Doubletree by Hilton Perimeter Dunwoody at 4386 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, GA 30341

Now Hiring Across Metro Atlanta

We are actively recruiting Direct Support Professionals for residential programs throughout the Metro Atlanta area. Locations include Buford, Conyers, Covington, Newborn, Snellville, Grayson, McDonough, Jonesboro, Riverdale, Stone Mountain, Tucker, Mableton, Marietta and more! Our shifts include part-time, full-time, floaters and PRN.

Compensation
Direct Support Professionals will earn $17 hourly.
Team Leads will earn $21.64 hourly.

What Does a DSP Do?

Direct Support Professionals provide day-to-day support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them live more independent and fulfilling lives. Responsibilities may include:

  • Assisting with personal care and daily living activities
  • Meal preparation and housekeeping
  • Transportation to appointments, work, and community activities
  • Medication administration and health-related support
  • Documentation and recordkeeping
  • Supporting individual goals and community engagement
  • Promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life
What Does a Team Lead Do?

Team Leads provide direct support to individuals while also helping oversee daily residential operations and supporting frontline staff. They serve as a resource for DSPs, help ensure quality services are delivered, and assist with maintaining compliance with agency policies and individual support plans.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Providing direct care and support to individuals served
  • Assisting with staff training and coaching
  • Monitoring documentation and program compliance
  • Supporting scheduling and shift coverage
  • Communicating with families, managers, and multidisciplinary teams
  • Helping ensure the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served
  • Serving as a leader and role model for the residential team
Qualifications
  • Valid, unrestricted driver's license
  • CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Compassion for serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. with or without accommodation

Come prepared to interview and take the next step toward a rewarding career helping others achieve a Life Without Limits!