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Direct Support Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$17/hr

Join Sevita as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals live their best lives--while building skills, relationships, and a rewarding career. What You'll Do: * Empower individuals to ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$17/hr

Join Sevita as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals live their best lives--while building skills, relationships, and a rewarding career. What You'll Do: * Empower individuals to ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Ames, IA · On-site

$17/hr

Join Sevita as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and help individuals live their best lives--while building skills, relationships, and a rewarding career. What You'll Do: * Empower individuals to ...

ChildServe

Direct Support Professional - PRN

Johnston, IA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Direct Support Professionals work with supervisors, therapists, nursing staff, and families in program development and implementation. Examples include assisting the children and young adults with ...

ChildServe

Direct Support Professional - PRN

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support Professionals work with supervisors, therapists, nursing staff, and families in program development and implementation. Examples include assisting the children and young adults with ...

Sunrise

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

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 ...

Sunrise

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

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 ...

ChildServe

Direct Support Professional (Part-Time)

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Direct Support Professionals work with supervisors, therapists, nursing staff, and families in program development and implementation. Examples include assisting the children and young adults with ...

Circle City ABA

Direct Support Professional

Johnston, IA · On-site

$20/hr

Serves in a direct care role, consulting the BCBA regularly for additional support, training, and supervision * Adjusts interventions and/or intervention methods as instructed by the supervising BCBA ...

Circle City ABA

Direct Support Professional

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$20/hr

Serves in a direct care role, consulting the BCBA regularly for additional support, training, and supervision * Adjusts interventions and/or intervention methods as instructed by the supervising BCBA ...

Sunrise

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

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 ...

Sunrise

Direct Support Professional

Polk City, IA

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

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 ...

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Direct Support information

See Ames, IA salary details

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How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support in Ames, IA is $15.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

For a Direct Support professional, earning $4,000 a week without a degree is uncommon, as most roles pay less and require experience or certifications. High-paying jobs in this field typically involve supervisory or specialized positions, which may require additional training or credentials. Generally, achieving such income levels often involves advanced skills, certifications, or managerial responsibilities beyond entry-level support roles.

Is being a DSP a stressful job?

Being a Direct Support Professional (DSP) can be stressful due to the physical and emotional demands of assisting individuals with disabilities or special needs. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging behaviors, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find it rewarding and manageable with proper training and support from colleagues and supervisors.

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

AspectDirect SupportPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires specialized training or certifications in disability supportMay require basic caregiving or health-related certifications
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities in homes, community settings, or facilitiesProvides personal care in private homes, healthcare facilities, or assisted living
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by disability agencies, non-profits, or government programsHired by families, healthcare agencies, or assisted living facilities
Job FocusAssisting with daily living, community integration, and advocacyAssisting with personal hygiene, mobility, and daily routines

While both roles involve providing personal assistance, Direct Support typically encompasses a broader scope of supporting individuals with disabilities in various aspects of life, including advocacy and community engagement. Personal Care Assistants mainly focus on personal hygiene and daily living tasks. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and settings.

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 knowledge of personal care, client safety, and basic health support, often backed by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with care documentation systems and first aid/CPR certification is commonly required. Patience, empathy, and strong communication are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting clients with diverse needs. These abilities are essential for ensuring client well-being, promoting independence, and maintaining a safe, supportive environment.

What are Direct Support professionals?

Direct Support professionals, also known as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), are individuals who assist people with disabilities or special needs in their daily lives. They help clients with tasks such as personal care, medication management, transportation, and participation in community activities. DSPs play a vital role in promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life for the individuals they support. Their work may take place in group homes, private residences, or community settings.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A Direct Support professional can increase earnings by working multiple shifts, gaining specialized certifications, or taking on additional clients. Building experience and offering flexible hours may help reach higher weekly income levels, but earning $2000 weekly typically requires multiple part-time roles or high-demand skills in the field.

What are some common challenges Direct Support Professionals face when supporting clients, and how can they be addressed?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, managing behavioral issues, and adapting to each client's unique needs. Addressing these challenges involves ongoing training, strong teamwork, and utilizing person-centered approaches to build trust and rapport with clients. Regular communication with supervisors and colleagues also helps in finding effective strategies and sharing best practices for delivering high-quality support.

What is a direct support career?

A direct support career involves providing assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them with daily activities, personal care, and community integration. These roles often require strong communication skills, patience, and may involve certifications such as CPR or first aid. Direct support professionals work in settings like homes, group homes, or community programs to promote independence and well-being.
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Direct Support jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Direct Support jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Direct Support job openings:
Direct Support jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support job openings in Ames, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,132 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Honoring Opportunities for Personal Empowerment

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description:

HOPE is a premier, non-profit organization serving adults with special needs and their families, incorporating ideas and concepts that powerfully increase their quality of life.

** HOPE is an hourly service provider where our individuals receive a few hours of services a week, depending on their needs.


One of HOPE's goals is to ensure that all participants that are interested in their community have opportunities and options to be a part of their community. This is done through civic involvement, volunteer works, and belonging to a group where membership holds certain responsibilities. By belonging and participating in the community, people create meaningful relationships within their community, increasing awareness and acceptance, with a goal of reducing needs for paid supports. All of HOPE's participants are working toward meaningful opportunity.

We work with individuals throughout the Des Moines metro area and surrounding suburbs.

HOPE Agency Des Moines empowers those with special needs to enjoy independent, productive lives.

Direct Support Professional

Part-time position with potential to be Full-time, compensated at a nice hourly rate. Provide quality, hourly services with compassion and encouragement to persons with disabilities. Services include daily living skills, financial supports, community connections, vocational skills, and job coaching. All services are documented by care providers.

Requirements:
  • At least 18 years of age
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Proficient with Internet Explorer
  • Valid Iowa Driver's License with good driving record
  • Reliable transportation with auto insurance: $100,000/$300,000/$100,000 liability coverage
  • Can pass a background check