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Full Time Direct Support Professional Jobs in Tennessee

Direct Support Professional

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

Our Direct Support Professional (DSP) positions are a great opportunity for those considering ... for Full-Time Employees) Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance, Teledoc, Paid Training, Referral Bonus ...

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Full Time Direct Support Professional information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$14

$17

How much do full time direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time direct support professional in Tennessee is $14.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $15.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Full Time Direct Support Professionals?

Full Time Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are individuals who work directly with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, assisting them with daily living activities, personal care, and community involvement. DSPs help clients achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life by supporting them in areas such as communication, social skills, and personal growth. They often work in group homes, residential facilities, or clients' private residences, providing compassionate care and advocacy on a full-time basis.

What does a typical day look like for a Full Time Direct Support Professional, and how does the role interact with clients and team members?

A typical day for a Full Time Direct Support Professional (DSP) involves providing hands-on support to individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, assisting with daily living activities such as meal preparation, medication reminders, and personal care. DSPs often collaborate closely with other team members, including case managers, nurses, and therapists, to ensure coordinated care and support tailored to each client’s needs. Open communication and flexibility are essential since daily routines can change based on client schedules and needs. Building trusting relationships with clients and fostering a supportive environment are central to the role, making teamwork and empathy key to success.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Full Time Direct Support Professionals typically do not earn $4,000 per week; their pay is usually based on hourly wages or salaries that are lower. High-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 weekly without a degree often include roles such as commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or sales managers, which may require specialized skills, licensing, or experience rather than formal degrees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Direct Support Professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong interpersonal skills, and experience in caregiving or working with individuals with disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, basic healthcare protocols, and optional certifications such as CPR/First Aid are valuable. Patience, empathy, reliability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that enable positive relationships and support for clients. These skills ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of individuals receiving care, while also facilitating collaboration with families and colleagues.

What is the difference between Full Time Direct Support Professional vs Part Time Direct Support Professional?

AspectFull Time Direct Support ProfessionalPart Time Direct Support Professional
Work HoursTypically 30-40 hours per weekLess than 30 hours per week
CertificationsOften requires similar certifications (e.g., CPR, First Aid)Same certifications usually required
Work EnvironmentConsistent schedule, full-day shiftsFlexible, shorter shifts
Employer UsageCommon in full-service agencies and facilitiesUsed in part-time roles or supplemental positions

Full Time Direct Support Professionals work more hours per week, often with a consistent schedule, providing ongoing support. Part Time Direct Support Professionals work fewer hours, offering flexibility but less overall weekly support. Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in similar environments, but the commitment level differs.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A Full Time Direct Support Professional typically earns a fixed salary or hourly wage that may not reach $2000 weekly, but increasing income can involve working additional hours, obtaining certifications, or taking on specialized roles. Earning $2000 a week from home generally requires high-demand skills, multiple income streams, or roles with higher pay rates, such as remote healthcare or consulting positions.

What is a full-time DSP?

A full-time Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a caregiver who provides assistance and support to individuals with disabilities or special needs, typically working scheduled hours that cover a standard workweek. They may perform tasks such as personal care, skill development, and community integration, often requiring certifications like CPR and first aid. Full-time DSPs usually work 35-40 hours per week and may work in residential, community, or facility settings.

What is the 3 month rule for jobs?

The 3 month rule for a Full Time Direct Support Professional typically refers to a probationary period of three months during which an employee's performance and fit for the role are evaluated. During this time, employees may receive additional training and supervision, and employment status may be reviewed for permanent placement or further development.
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Tennessee? For Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Full Time Direct Support Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Full Time Direct Support Professional job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,514 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Full-Time Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Progressive Directions, Inc

Clarksville, TN • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Location: Clarksville, TN
Schedule: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and every other Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Make a Difference Every Day
Progressive Directions, Inc. (PDI) is hiring a compassionate and dependable Full-Time Direct Support Professional at one of our Clarksville locations.
For 50 years, PDI has helped people with intellectual and developmental disabilities build meaningful lives through pride, dignity, and independence. As a DSP, you will provide person-centered support that helps people make choices, participate in their communities, develop greater independence, and achieve their personal goals.
This is more than just a job; it is meaningful work that can make a lasting difference in someone's life.
What You'll Do
  • Provide respectful, person-centered support based on each person's individual needs and goals
  • Assist with daily living activities and personal care, when needed
  • Support community involvement, recreation, appointments, shopping, and other activities
  • Encourage independence, informed choices, and skill development
  • Assist with meal preparation, household routines, and maintaining a safe home environment
  • Provide transportation as assigned
  • Complete required documentation accurately and on time
  • Follow all PDI policies, training requirements, and health and safety procedures
  • Protect the rights, privacy, dignity, and confidentiality of the people supported
Why Join PDI?
  • Starting pay of $16.00 per hour
  • Consistent full-time schedule
  • Comprehensive benefits for eligible employees
  • Paid time off and paid sick time
  • Paid holidays
  • Ongoing training and professional development
  • Supportive leadership
  • Meaningful work that changes lives
  • Opportunities for advancement

Requirements
What We're Looking For
  • At least 18 years of age
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Ability to read, write, communicate, and complete documentation in English
  • Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record
  • Reliable transportation and current automobile insurance
  • Ability to successfully complete required background checks and drug screening
  • Dependable attendance and the ability to work the assigned schedule
  • A patient, respectful, and supportive approach
  • A genuine desire to help people live more independently

Previous caregiving or direct support experience is helpful, but it is not required. PDI provides required paid training.
Apply Today
Progressive Directions, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other status protected by applicable law.
Salary Description
16.00 per hour