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

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Direct Support Worker information

See Waukee, IA salary details

$9

$15

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How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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 Professional, OVN (DSM)

Progress Industries

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

$500 sign on bonus

We are seeking a dedicated individual to fill Full-Time positions for a direct support professional for:

Overnight shift and every other weekend.

Driver's License Required.

We are currently in need of a Direct Support Professional to help provide services for individuals with special needs. The ideal candidate will have a background in working with individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism, severe anxiety and depression, as well as Down syndrome. While the position will include cleaning chores, we're looking for candidates who are willing to go above and beyond by helping individuals with their personal hygiene. This may include assistance with personal hygiene tasks, helping them dress or even running daily errands.

Responsibilities:

  • Be able to travel to client's home and visit them in the community.
  • Understand the importance of a support staff that is consistent.
  • Be able to work with individuals in the community.
  • Have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Have experience working with individuals with disabilities in a non-business setting.

Who We Are

Progress Industries is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that provides services and support for people with physical and intellectual disabilities in central Iowa to realize dreams and exercise real choices about where they live, work, and socialize. Progress Industries offers a wide range of comprehensive services for people with disabilities and other life challenges. By providing quality services and community education, we tackle issues and barriers facing people with disabilities. Progress Industries possess a culture that promotes from within for advancement opportunities.

Progress Industries is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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