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Direct Support Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAGE Services

CA

$20/hr

Direct Support Specialist Required Qualifications: High School diploma or GED, valid California driver's license, maintains current automobile insurance, access to a vehicle to/from work and to ...

SAGE Services

CA

$20/hr

Direct Support Specialist Required Qualifications: High School diploma or GED, valid California driver's license, maintains current automobile insurance, access to a vehicle to/from work and to ...

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How much do direct support specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support specialist in the United States is $23.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Support Specialist, and why are they important?

A Direct Support Specialist needs a basic understanding of personal care, behavioral support, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional training in disability services. Familiarity with documentation systems, assistive technology, and sometimes certifications like CPR/First Aid are commonly required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and effectively support individuals with developmental or physical disabilities. These skills ensure clients receive high-quality, person-centered care that promotes their independence and well-being.

Is DSP a good career?

A Direct Support Specialist (DSP) provides assistance to individuals with disabilities, often working in community or residential settings. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others, with opportunities for growth and certifications such as CPR and first aid. The role typically involves flexible hours and requires strong communication and patience skills.

What are Direct Support Specialists?

Direct Support Specialists are professionals who provide support and care to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them lead more independent and fulfilling lives. They assist with daily living activities, personal care, skill development, and community involvement. In addition to offering emotional support, they often help clients with tasks such as transportation, medication management, and communication. Their work is essential in promoting dignity, inclusion, and quality of life for those they support.

What are some common challenges faced by Direct Support Specialists, and how can they be effectively managed?

Direct Support Specialists often encounter challenges such as managing clients' behavioral issues, adapting to varying communication styles, and balancing multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment. Effective management of these challenges involves ongoing training in de-escalation techniques, clear and empathetic communication, and strong organizational skills. Collaborating closely with team members and supervisors also helps ensure that support strategies remain consistent and effective, leading to better outcomes for clients and a more supportive work environment.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Direct Support Specialist typically earns less than $10,000 a month; however, some high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach that level without a degree. These positions often require strong skills, experience, or certifications and may involve commission-based pay or self-employment.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs like high-level consulting, investment banking, or specialized medical procedures can pay $2,000 or more per day. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience, and often involve long hours or high-pressure environments.

How do you become a certified DSP?

To become a certified Direct Support Specialist (DSP), individuals typically need to complete state-mandated training hours, which cover topics like person-centered planning and behavior management, and pass a competency exam. Certification requirements vary by state but often include background checks and ongoing training to maintain certification status.

What is the difference between Direct Support Specialist vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support SpecialistPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized certificationsCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProviding personal care in clients' homes or facilities
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, social services, non-profitsHome healthcare, assisted living, private homes
Job ResponsibilitiesSupporting daily activities, advocating for clients, coordinating servicesAssisting with bathing, dressing, medication reminders

Both roles involve providing care and support to individuals with disabilities or health needs. While a Direct Support Specialist often works in broader settings with a focus on advocacy and coordination, a Personal Care Assistant primarily provides hands-on personal care in home or facility environments. The certifications and work environments overlap significantly, making them closely related roles in the healthcare and social services industry.

More about Direct Support Specialist jobs
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What states have the most Direct Support Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Support Specialist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Specialist jobs? For Direct Support Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Direct Support Specialist jobs near you
Direct Support Specialist

Direct Support Specialist

Pinnacle Services Incorporated

Minneapolis, MN

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description

Direct Support Specialist 

 South Minneapolis


Job Type


Full Time



Description 


Looking to elevate your Direct Care experience? Pinnacle Services is seeking dedicated, caring individuals to join our team as Direct Support Specialists! Our Direct Support Specialists have the ability to assist persons served with developmental disabilities, mental health diagnoses, and behavioral issues in a residential setting providing support and encouragement to work towards outcomes and goals to gain life skills. This position is full-time. 


Duties and Responsibilities

Job duties and responsibilities of the position vary to meet the needs of persons served but may include:

  • Meal planning/preparation.
  • Facilitation of community activities by using company vehicles.
  • Assisting with personal and medical cares (helping with dressing, bathing, etc.)
  • Behavior management.
  • Medication administration.
  • Direct Support Specialists travel between multiple site locations as needed. 


Schedule

Direct Support Specialists work either morning (6am-2pm) or evening (2pm-10pm) shifts and must be available 5 days a week. Schedules are created with and determined by the Program Director. 


Salary/ Schedule

$18.00/hour and Scheduling is created with and determined by the Program Director. Direct Support Specialists must be available to work morning (6am-2pm) and evening (2pm-10pm) shifts and be willing to work weekends. 


Benefits

Part-Time Employees

Sick and Safe Time 

Full-Time Employees

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Short Term Disability

Voluntary Life Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Flexible Spending Account

PTO (3 weeks/year for first 2 years)


Requirements

 Required Qualifications

  • At least a year of experience working as a Direct Support Professional or equivalent role.
  • Have a passion for helping others and is willing to assist persons served with their varying needs. 
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Must successfully clear a background check.
  • Current driver's license, current auto insurance, reliable transportation and an acceptable driving record determined by Pinnacle Services policy. Unacceptable driving record will result in reduction of placement options.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous direct care experience.
  • CPR/AED certified (will train if missing qualification).


Locations Available:

  • South Minneapolis

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