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

Sunrise

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/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 ...

Circle City ABA

Direct Support Professional

Johnston, IA · On-site

$20/hr

... working in a supportive and professional environment. Take the next step in your professional ... Serves in a direct care role, consulting the BCBA regularly for additional support, training, and ...

Circle City ABA

Direct Support Professional

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$20/hr

... working in a supportive and professional environment. Take the next step in your professional ... Serves in a direct care role, consulting the BCBA regularly for additional support, training, and ...

State of Iowa

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$40K - $58K/yr

... currently seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join the dedicated team at Woodward ... Benefits of Joining WRC Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a ...

State of Iowa

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$40K - $58K/yr

... Direct Support Professionals to join the dedicated team at Woodward Resource Center (WRC). No ... Benefits of Joining WRC Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks In addition to a ...

Easterseals Iowa

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

A supportive and flexible team working environment The application process consists of 1st phone ... Support clients to advocate for themselves and their right to live a meaningful and fulfilled life ...

Easterseals Iowa

Direct Support Professional

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

A supportive and flexible team working environment The application process consists of 1st phone ... Support clients to advocate for themselves and their right to live a meaningful and fulfilled life ...

Sunrise

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Minimum one year of experience working in the human service field if required by work location ... Provides support, assistance and supervision to meet the needs and goals of the individuals ...

Sunrise

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Minimum one year of experience working in the human service field if required by work location ... Provides support, assistance and supervision to meet the needs and goals of the individuals ...

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Showing results 21-40

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

Direct Support Worker information

See Waukee, IA salary details

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How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 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 are the duties of a direct support worker?

A direct support worker provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, helping with daily activities such as personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation. They also support clients in developing independence and social skills, often working in community or residential settings and following care plans under supervision.

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.

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 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.

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, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,262 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Sunrise

Polk City, IA • On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

Are you passionate about helping others? Would you like to make a difference in someone's life? If you answered yes, we encourage you to join the Sunrise family! Sunrise is one of the largest, private not-for-profit organizations in the country dedicated to serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. At Sunrise we pride ourselves in taking an individualized approach in addressing the unique needs of each person seeking or receiving services. As an employer, we seek to provide an environment of growth and development for our employees that is consistent with recognizing the rights, needs, and wants of all people.

Purpose:

To provide support, assistance and supervision to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to enable them to live valued lives in the community.


Qualifications:

  • Must successfully complete the required pre-employment Background and Drug Screenings
  • Must possess a valid Driver's License which meets company standards for approved driver status
  • Must possess basic computer skills
  • High School Diploma or equivalent if required by work location
  • Minimum one year of experience working in the human service field if required by work location


Essential Functions:

  • Identifies and reports any suspected abuse or violations of an individual's rights
  • Provides support, assistance and supervision to meet the needs and goals of the individuals according to their plans
  • Ensures that each individual's training, behavior and support programs are being implemented and documented in accordance with regulatory requirements
  • Ensures that the health, safety and well-being of the individuals are protected at all times
  • Provides a positive, reinforcing environment that promotes independence and choice
  • Follows positioning schedules, uses proper equipment and assistive devices per plan
  • Provides necessary level of assistance for appropriate diet, texture and equipment
  • Ensures all homes, outside areas and vehicles are well maintained and organized
  • Performs all other duties as assigned


This position will remain open until filled.
Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug-Free Workplace
If you were referred by a current Sunrise employee, please make sure to indicate so when completing the employment application process


This position will remain open until lled. If you were referred by a current Sunrise employee, please make sure to indicate so when completing the employment application process.
This company is a Drug-Free Workplace. As part of our policies, all candidates for employment must submit to a pre-employment drug screening after receiving a conditional offer of employment. A positive confirmed screening, or refusal to submit to such screening, will result in a withdrawal of the conditional job offer.
Direct Support roles within this organization are mandated reporters, and as such must report any instances of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that they are involved in or witness.

Sunrise is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.


Compensation and benefits estimated range: the pay range represents the base hourly rate or salary that the company in good faith believes it will pay for this position at the time of posting. Final compensation is determined by factors including geographic location, skills, education and relevant experience.
Benefits Offered: At Sunrise Community, Inc. we provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees' health, wealth and wellbeing. For this position benefits include: Paid time off, Retirement plan, Health insurance, Vision insurance, Dental insurance, Employee assistance program and more.

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