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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Waukee, IA (NOW HIRING)

ChildServe

Direct Support Professional - PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Direct Support Professionals work with supervisors, therapists, nursing staff, and families in ... ChildServe is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with ...

Sunrise

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA · On-site

$20/hr

Minimum one year of experience working in the human service field if required by work location ... Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any ...

ChildServe

Direct Support Professional - PRN

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Join ChildServe as a Direct Support Professional, in this role you will be responsible for ... ChildServe is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with ...

ChildServe

Direct Support Professional - PRN

Des Moines, IA

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Join ChildServe as a Direct Support Professional, in this role you will be responsible for ... ChildServe is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with ...

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All JobsDirect Support Worker JobsDirect Support Worker Jobs in Waukee, IA

Direct Support Worker information

See Waukee, IA salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker in Waukee, IA is $15.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support worker?

As a direct support worker, you provide care and training for people with developmental disabilities. You offer community support by using your skills and experience to help individuals become more active and social. Some direct support workers provide live-in, 24-hour support for clients, while others provide care on a regular, but less constant, basis. A career as a direct support worker requires you have some formal qualifications and education, typically a bachelor’s degree in health, counseling, or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Worker, you need a foundational understanding of person-centered care, basic health and safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation systems, assistive technology, and first aid/CPR certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to communicate compassionately make someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial to effectively support individuals with disabilities, ensure their well-being, and foster independence in daily living.

What are some common challenges faced by direct support workers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Direct Support Workers often encounter challenges such as managing clients with complex behavioral or medical needs and adapting to varying routines. Effective communication, patience, and ongoing training are essential in navigating these situations. Building strong, trusting relationships with clients and collaborating closely with families and healthcare professionals can also help manage difficulties. Many organizations provide regular supervision and access to support networks, which can be valuable resources for addressing workplace challenges.

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

AspectDirect Support WorkerPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires certifications like CPR, First Aid, and sometimes specialized trainingMay require similar certifications, especially First Aid and CPR, but less specialized training
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities, mental health, or developmental needs in community or residential settingsProvides personal care services in clients' homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome healthcare agencies, private households, healthcare facilities

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Workers typically work with people with disabilities or mental health needs in community settings, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal care in home or healthcare environments. The certifications and work environments overlap, but the focus and client needs differ slightly.

Where do direct support workers get paid the most?

Direct support workers tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with higher minimum wages. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence pay rates, with some private agencies offering higher compensation than public programs.
More about Direct Support Worker jobs
Direct Support Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in Waukee, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,262 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Direct Support Services Worker

imagine the Possibilities

Indianola, IA

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Imagine The Possibilities rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 242 rated social care providers

Job description

**Please read the ENTIRE job posting before applying**


This role operates in a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Setting, defined as medical, social, and supportive services for Iowans with functional, cognitive, and other physical or mental health needs (Iowa Health & Human Services). Rather than institutionalizing individuals who have these physical and mental health needs, HCBS settings provide these individuals with the opportunity to live and receive services in a way honoring to them and their abilities.


Direct Support Professionals are the heartbeat of what we do at Imagine the Possibilities empowering people to reach individual achievement across the spectrum of life. If youre passionate about empowering people to reach their goals and help them strive for more, we want you to join our team. As an integral part of the overall care team, you will collaborate with other Direct Support Professionals, Programmers, Supervisors, individuals-served, and their families to ensure the best possible care for those you serve. You will fulfill an individuals behavioral care plan by creatively strategizing the best way for each individual to reach and exceed their goals. Your innovative and impactful solutions and strategies will make the difference for those you serve.


What Winning Looks Like:

While its not a competition, we do recognize that each person wants to win at life; and youre a central part of someone elses wins as well as your own! In this role, youll be responsible to:

  • Goal Input & Person-Centered Support: Collaborate with the HCBS Supervisor and Programmer to develop individualized goals and provide direct support that focuses on teaching skills, promoting independence, and encouraging participation in recreational and community activities.
  • Behavioral & Rights-Based Support: Use approved behavioral strategies to support individuals with challenging behaviors while respecting rights restrictions only as outlined by the interdisciplinary team and individual service plans.
  • Documentation & Compliance: Complete accurate, timely, and Iowa Codecompliant documentation in Setworks, ensuring all required service details, interventions, and individual responses are properly recorded and submitted daily.
  • Direct Care & Community Integration: Provide hands-on support in home and community settings, including daily living assistance, transportation, mobility support, safety monitoring, property respect, and active encouragement of choice and independence.
  • Medication, Scheduling & Professional Responsibility: Administer and document medications per the six rights, follow all agency policies and procedures, maintain reliable attendance (including weekends/holidays), complete required training, and communicate concerns or updates through appropriate channels.


Know Were For You:

We know finding the right opportunity can be tricky thats why Imagine is focused on making sure your time is well spent. We take pride in the benefits we offer our employees. As an employee, youll have access to a variety of benefits that are sure to sweeten the deal. Depending on your full-time or part-time status, youll have access to:

  • Competitive Wages: The base pay is $17/hour. With education and experience, you could start out making more than that.
  • Scheduling: Were a 24/7 service provider, offering a variety of shifts and scheduling options based on program needs.
  • Training: This is an entry-level position, and we provide comprehensive training to ensure every employee feels confident and supported as they get started.
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO): We all deserve a break now and then dont feel bad about taking time for you.
  • 401k Retirement Plan: Secure your future with a cushioned fund that will allow you to live your best life.
  • Comprehensive Insurance Plans: Whether its medical, dental, vision, or life insurance weve got you covered.
  • Pre-Paid Legal Services: Be prepared for the things you just cant be prepared for on your own.
  • Discounted Costco or Sams Club Memberships: What can we say? We know a great deal when we see one.
  • Advancement Opportunities: We believe in your future, which is why we have a specifically designed leadership development opportunity purposed to launch your career.
  • Employee Assistance Program: Were there for you through all lifes ups and downs.
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      Job Industries
      • Social Services

      What Imagine The Possibilities employees say

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