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Dsp Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sparc

Vocational DSP

Springfield, IL

$17 - $21.30/hr

The Vocational DSP (Direct Support Professional) amp; Vocational DSP Trainee work in a dynamic environment supporting adults with I/DD and works closely with service recipients, Vocational QIDPs ...

PossAbility, LLC

Direct Care Professional

Springfield, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Role Description This is an in-home and community-based care role for Care Professionals including Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Home Care Aides (HCA ...

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All JobsDsp JobsDsp Jobs in Springfield, IL

Dsp information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do dsp jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for dsp in Springfield, IL is $15.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a DSP do?

A typical day for a Direct Support Professional (DSP) involves assisting individuals with disabilities in their daily activities, which may include personal care, medication management, and helping clients participate in community events. DSPs often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating closely with nurses, case managers, and therapists to ensure each individual's care plan is followed. Regular communication with families and reporting on progress or concerns are also important aspects of the role. This collaborative environment helps ensure that clients receive consistent, high-quality support tailored to their needs.

What is the difference between Dsp vs Network Technician?

AspectDspNetwork Technician
Required CertificationsFCC License, Technical CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentTelecom sites, installation, maintenanceOffice, data centers, network setup
Industry UsageTelecommunications, broadcastingIT, networking, telecommunications

Both Dsp and Network Technicians work in telecommunications and require technical certifications. Dsp roles focus on signal processing and telecommunications equipment, often in field environments, while Network Technicians handle network infrastructure, troubleshooting, and setup in office or data center settings. They share overlapping skills but serve different specialized functions within the industry.

Where do DSPs get paid the most?

Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) working in industries such as aerospace, defense, or specialized manufacturing tend to earn higher salaries due to the technical expertise required. Additionally, DSPs with advanced skills, certifications, or experience in high-demand sectors and working in regions with a higher cost of living generally receive higher pay. Salary levels can also vary based on company size and geographic location within a country.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DSP?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you need a basic understanding of personal care, behavioral support, and documentation, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant training. Familiarity with care documentation systems, first aid/CPR certification, and sometimes medication administration systems is typically required. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and problem-solving skills set outstanding DSPs apart. These abilities ensure the safety, well-being, and quality of life for individuals with disabilities while supporting effective teamwork and compliance with care standards.

Are Dsp jobs hard to get?

Getting a DSP (Direct Support Professional) job can be competitive, but opportunities are available for those with relevant skills, such as patience and communication. Many positions require background checks and training, but prior experience is not always necessary. Job availability depends on location and demand for support services.

What is a DSP?

DSP stands for Direct Support Professional. DSPs are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities in daily living activities, helping them achieve greater independence and quality of life. Their responsibilities can include personal care, meal preparation, transportation, medication management, and supporting social or community engagement. DSPs often work in group homes, private residences, or community settings, and their work is essential in promoting inclusion and empowerment for people with disabilities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dsp jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Dsp jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Dsp jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Dsp jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Dsp jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Dsp job openings:
Dsp jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dsp job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,348 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Vocational DSP

Sparc

Springfield, IL

$17 - $21.30/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:
Teach, coach, and mentor individuals through applying the Person-Centered Plan (PCP) Implementation Strategies for persons served. The Vocational DSP (Direct Support Professional) amp; Vocational DSP Trainee work in a dynamic environment supporting adults with I/DD and works closely with service recipients, Vocational QIDPs, BCBAs, and the Site Supervisor and/or Operations Manager to plan daily work activities and provide support to persons served. The Vocational DSP amp; Vocational DSP Trainee will support recipients with daily living activities and maximize physical, emotional, and intellectual growth. The Vocational DSP amp; Vocational DSP Trainee will provide daily coaching, teaching, and mentoring to the individuals they work with and they will ensure the Person-Centered Plan’s Implementation Strategies are the foundation of their responsibilities.
Universal Competencies:
Universal competencies are competency requirements that apply to all Sparc positions (Exempt amp; Non-Exempt, Part-time, Full-time, PRN, Supervisory and Non-Supervisory). Universal Competencies support our mission and are consistent with Sparc’s core values; they are:
Collaboration/Positive Impact: Ability to work with a variety of individuals and teams in a constructive and civil manner, utilizing existing resources, training, and learning to achieve or exceed desired outcomes while integrating Sparc’s core values to
“TEACH, COACH, and MENTOR.”
Proficiency Levels amp; Typical Behaviors: Basic
  • Grasps the inevitability and challenges of change and adapts accordingly, utilizing learning opportunities to prepare for changing work, methods, and work environment.
  • Demonstrates civil and respectful behaviors valued within Sparc.
  • Provides and accepts ideas and suggestions in a constructive and helpful manner.
  • Exhibits good teamwork. Is approachable, cooperative, and contributes to an overall positive and productive work/team environment.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and respectful manner while appreciating the unique contribution of an inclusive workforce that brings together the talents of people across multiple identities.
Proficiency Levels amp; Typical Behaviors: Basic
  • Articulates Sparc’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion as it relates to each staff member’s role.
  • Demonstrates civil and respectful behaviors in support of Sparc’s guiding principles, values, and policies that prohibit “differences in treatment of persons because of race, creed, color, religion, national origins, age, sex, pregnancy, disability, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other associational preferences.”
  • Demonstrates a willingness to examine one’s own biases, assumptions, and attitudes.
  • Knows where to find diversity-related organizational policies, procedures, and resources.
Service Excellence/Customer Focus: Ability to meet or exceed service needs and expectations of persons served and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner. Ability to effectively transmit and interpret information through appropriate communication with internal and external constituents, stakeholders, and the community.
Proficiency Levels amp; Typical Behaviors: Basic
  • Consistently provides exceptional person-centered service.
  • Manages expectations of the person served and takes responsibility for enhancing service excellence.
  • Communicates understandably; uses appropriate words, grammar, and mannerisms in all mediums.
  • Seeks feedback on communication style and effectiveness.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  1. Deliver daily instruction on the Person-Centered Plan “PCP” Implementation Strategies, fostering a positive environment for persons served and supporting individual independence, while maintaining a professional, well-organized work environment. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Provide direct person-centered coaching, teaching, and mentoring to support personal independence, including promoting individual rights, self-advocacy, personal care, medication oversight, hygiene, first aid, and assistance with activities of daily activities such as dressing, eating, toileting, etc. (requires frequent lifting). (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Implement social skills, work skills, and community integration activities, focusing on teaching job-related skills in a person-centered manner and ensuring each individual understands their job responsibilities. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Provide routine transportation to persons served, including but not limited to services, programs, plan-related activities, and appointments. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Complete all required documentation, including progress on measurable goals, daily notes, attendance, incident reports, data sheets, support service records, and input for assessment, ensuring timely submission. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Dedicated to providing assigned supervision, recognizing that leaving individuals unsupervised constitutes neglect and that the role of every Vocational DSP requires coordinating coverage with supervisors during emergencies, natural disasters, staff shortages and/or in instances in which leaving the work location is not immediately possible. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Collaborate with program staff to create a positive, inclusive environment that promotes health, safety, and well-being, ensuring the program area is clean, safe, and well-maintained. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Maintain confidentiality of information, including ALL information surrounding individuals supported, employees, as well as the affairs of the agency. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Assist in peer training of staff in daily program operations, as necessary. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Ensure safe daily transportation of individuals, including proper use of specialized equipment, locking devices, adherence to agency policies, and the implementation of Sparc’s Safe Driving training program. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Responsible for maintaining the work schedule as assigned, including arrival to work at the time scheduled and supervisor notification of absences at a minimum of two (2) hours in advance of the scheduled work shift. (Essential and Non-modifiable)
  1. Performs day-to-day duties in a manner that reflects Sparc’s mission and core values by being actively involved in the program and the people that Sparc programs support. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
  1. Must demonstrate exemplary performance, including but not limited to professionalism, dependability, demeanor, attendance, communication, and maintaining confidential information. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
  1. Performs other agency-related duties as assigned or required reasonably within the scope of the above-mentioned duties. “Related duties as assigned” are duties that may not be listed explicitly in the class specification or position description but are duties within the general, occupational series, and responsibility level typically associated with the employee’s class of work. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
Skills Needed:
  • Must be detail-oriented with excellent time management and organizational skills, including a proven ability to meet competing deadlines in a dynamic work environment.
  • Must demonstrate problem-solving techniques and the ability to oversee/monitor the program area and duties effectively.
  • Strong interpersonal and communications skills with a demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and establish rapport with diverse staff and individuals, including the individuals supported, staff, families, guardians, and members of the Sparc community.
  • Must demonstrate compassion, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude towards clients and their unique circumstances.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to routinely work with confidential information while maintaining compliance with HIPPA and other relevant regulations, rules, standards, and expectations.
  • Must have basic knowledge and experience utilizing computers, electronic timekeeping systems, and various software programs, including Microsoft Word and Outlook.
  • Must possess recordkeeping skills necessary to effectively document and communicate day-to-day occurrences/activities with persons supported to the appropriate staff and/or supervisor.
Education/Experience Requirements:
  • High school diploma or G.E.D. is required.
  • A minimum of one (1) year of work experience in a customer service role and/or healthcare setting is required.
  • A minimum of one (1) year of work experience in an independent/autonomous role with minimal supervision is required.
  • Previous experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, elderly populations, or in a healthcare setting is preferred.
Other Requirements:
  • A minimum age of 18 years old.
  • Must have a current, valid Illinois Driver’s License.
  • Must have current, valid proof of automobile insurance.
  • Must have reliable transportation to transport persons supported.
  • Must possess the physical ability to assist persons served with mobility as needed, including the ability to perform physical activities related to providing direct support for individuals served.
  • Attend and satisfactorily complete all training requirements and mandatory staff meetings.
  • Experience working in a physically demanding position, including the ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 lbs. frequently, the ability to bend, stoop, twist, turn, squat, climb stairs, walk, and stand stationary. Must possess the ability to physically manage any special needs of individuals supported by Sparc, including the ability to lift and transfer supported persons as needed and the ability to assist program staff in emergencies.
Benefits:
  • Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, prescription, group-paid life, dental, and vision insurance for full-time staff.
  • Pay rate increases for every 5 years of Sparc service
  • Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days annually based on years of service.
  • Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date.
  • Up to twelve (12) paid holidays.
  • Employees earn eight to twelve (8-12) paid sick days annually based on years of service.
  • Retirement savings plan options.
  • Pre-tax Healthcare Flexible Spending Account option.
  • Pre-tax Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account option.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Professional development opportunities.
  • Supportive, mission-driven work environment.
Working Conditions:
  • Work is mainly performed at Sparc’s Vocational Work Center and at community employment sites. Some locations may expose the employee to mild to moderately high noise levels.
  • Safety and security procedures for each work site must be followed.
  • Staff in this role may be exposed to potentially dangerous machinery, work situations, various illnesses and diseases as well as hazardous and toxic chemicals, with some exposure to physically threatening clients, bodily fluids, bloodborne and airborne diseases, viruses, communicable diseases, etc.

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