ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

MyPath

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Direct Support and Participant Engagement * Provide consistent support and supervision to participants in the center and during community outings * Assist with daily living activities including ...

Mypath

Direct Support Professional - 3rd Shift

Oconomowoc, WI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Key Responsibilities Direct Care & Resident Support * Provide consistent supervision, guidance, and support to residents in their home and community settings. * Ensure that the sleeping environment ...

MyPath

Direct Support Professional - 3rd Shift

Oconomowoc, WI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Key Responsibilities Direct Care & Resident Support * Provide consistent supervision, guidance, and support to residents in their home and community settings. * Ensure that the sleeping environment ...

MyPath

Direct Support Professional (Sleep/Awake)

Dousman, WI · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Key Responsibilities Direct Care & Resident Support * Sleeping is permitted during the shift by following the awake/sleep schedule outlined by the group home. * Remain available in the event of ...

Mypath

Direct Support Professional (Sleep/Awake)

Dousman, WI · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Key Responsibilities Direct Care & Resident Support * Sleeping is permitted during the shift by following the awake/sleep schedule outlined by the group home. * Remain available in the event of ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsDirect Support JobsDirect Support Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Direct Support information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support in Milwaukee, WI is $16.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is a direct support professional?

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.

Is a degree needed to be a direct support professional?

A degree is not typically required to become a direct support professional, but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills such as communication, patience, and sometimes certification in CPR or first aid are often more important for this role.

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 and care 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 Milwaukee, WI? The most popular types of Direct Support jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Direct Support jobs? Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Direct Support job openings:
Direct Support jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,371 per year, or $16 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - 1st Shift

MyPath

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Majority Women Employee-Owned. Empowered by Everyone to Transform Lives.
Are you someone who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? Do you enjoy caring for and mentoring others with disabilities?
MyPath and its Operating Companies provide specialized services and dignified care for children, adolescents and adults with special needs. Our companies provide a spectrum of services and support which promote the ability of those we serve to live as independently as possible in the community.
Overview
Do you enjoy supporting individuals in a team-focused, community-based setting? Paragon Community Services (PCS), a MyPath Company, offers meaningful day programming and community integration opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our mission is to provide enriching experiences and compassionate support that empower participants to grow, thrive, and lead fulfilling lives while fostering a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplace for all team members.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. In this role, you will provide direct care and supervision to individuals participating in our day programs. You will assist with daily living skills, facilitate structured activities, and support community outings, all while ensuring each participant's safety, dignity, and personal growth.
This is a meaningful opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of others and be part of a team that values respect, empowerment, and inclusion.
Key Responsibilities:
Direct Support and Participant Engagement
  • Provide consistent support and supervision to participants in the center and during community outings
  • Assist with daily living activities including hygiene, feeding, and personal care based on participant-specific protocols
  • Support individual goals outlined in Progress Reports through structured engagement and skill-building
  • Promote participant independence and community involvement through encouragement and positive role modeling

Program Activities and Documentation
  • Facilitate a variety of activities aligned with the structured daily schedule and participants' personal goals
  • Encourage participation in recreational and educational experiences that build life skills and social connections
  • Document participant progress, behaviors, incidents, and medical concerns clearly and accurately in accordance with policy

Health and Safety
  • Monitor and promote participants' health, safety, and overall well-being in all settings
  • Use assistive equipment appropriately and follow agency procedures for medication administration and documentation
  • Respond effectively to emergencies, behavioral incidents, or safety concerns using only approved techniques and protocols

Team Collaboration & Communication
  • Collaborate with Program Managers, Coordinators, and fellow DSPs to support residents' success and quality of life
  • Attend team meetings and training sessions and contribute to ongoing, team-based treatment planning
  • Communicate effectively and respectfully with residents, families, and coworkers, fostering trust and shared purpose

Schedule
  • Monday through Friday, daytime shifts between 8:00am and 4:00pm
  • Occasional flexibility required based on participant and program needs

Comprehensive Employee Benefits Package
At Paragon Community Services, a MyPath Company, we are committed to supporting our employees' well-being, financial security, and professional growth. Our benefits package includes:
Financial & Retirement Benefits
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with MyPath Financial Wellness Resources
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • On-demand Access to Earned Wages
  • Student Loan Pay Down Assistance
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Health & Wellness
  • Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision Plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance Options
  • Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance
  • My Voyage Wellness Program

Work-Life Balance & Additional Perks
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) Accrual
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Childcare Search Assistance
  • Employee Discount Program via PerkSpot
  • Pet Insurance Discount

We value our employees and are dedicated to providing meaningful benefits that enhance our owners lives.
Qualifications:
Experience:
  • High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred
  • Experience working with individuals with disabilities in day programs, schools, camps or related settings preferred
  • Ongoing participation in paid, in-service training is required, and we'll support your learning every step of the way

Required Skills & Attributes:
  • Ability to maintain a calm and effective demeanor in emergency and stressful situations
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team to deliver high-quality care
  • Ability to effectively implement approved physical intervention techniques

Additional Requirements:
  • Must be at least 16 years old
  • May require a valid Driver's License and an acceptable driving record, depending on the needs of the position
  • Willingness to work with residents in a variety of environments, including home, recreational, and community settings

Additional Information
MyPath is composed of a beautifully diverse spectrum of employees with different characteristics, abilities, and life experiences. We believe that equitable, diverse, and inclusive practices in our workspaces are integral to the existence of MyPath. We value our diverse spectrum of Owners, the individuals we serve and the communities we encounter.
Our success as an organization is directly proportional to our ability to create belonging and genuinely engage our Owners and potential Owners. We ask for demographic information so that we can be intentional in supporting our Owners best. Although not required, we would appreciate you sharing to help our commitment of cultivating a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and belonging MyPath.
Our Culture
At MyPath, we support an ownership culture throughout the organization. Our culture is based on our five beliefs and behaviors:
  • Passion
  • Accountability
  • Teamwork
  • Openness
  • Continuous Learning and Innovation

As an employee owner, you can expect transparency, respect and appreciation. You'll impact the place you work and map a career within MyPath. With your passion and our breadth of services, your options are nearly limitless!
MyPath is proudly Majority Women Employee-Owned, with women leading at every level from the frontline to the boardroom. Our strength comes from all of us. Every Owner, regardless of gender, plays a vital role in shaping our culture, driving our mission, and building a workplace where opportunity and ownership are shared by all.
MyPath is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We embrace the unique characteristics, abilities, and life experiences of our employees and believe that equitable and inclusive practices are essential to our success. We value the diversity of our Owners, the individuals we serve, and the communities we engage with.

Apply