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Full Time Direct Support Professional Jobs in Tennessee

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Full Time Direct Support Professional information

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$8

$14

$17

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

As of Aug 22, 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 is a full time direct support professional?

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 full time direct support professional do?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a full time direct support professional?

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.

Is being a full time direct support professional a stressful job?

Full-time direct support professionals often work in demanding environments that require patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging situations. The job can be physically and emotionally taxing, especially when supporting individuals with complex needs, but proper training and support can help manage stress levels.

Is being a full time direct support professional worth it?

Full-time direct support professionals provide assistance to individuals with disabilities, often working in community or residential settings. The role offers stable employment, opportunities for skill development, and the chance to make a positive impact, though it may involve physically demanding tasks and variable schedules. Compensation and benefits vary by employer and location, but the job can be rewarding for those committed to supporting others.

Where do full time direct support professionals get paid the most?

Full time direct support professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services. States or areas with a strong presence of healthcare facilities, specialized care centers, or higher minimum wage laws often offer higher pay rates for this role. Certification and experience can also influence salary levels across different locations.

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:

Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Direct Support Professional job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% 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. (PDI)

Dickson, TN

$16/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description

Progressive Directions, Inc. (PDI) is hiring compassionate and dependable Full-Time Direct Support Professionals in Dickson, Tennessee. 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 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?
  • Comprehensive benefits for eligible employees
  • Paid time off 
  • Paid sick time
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid Training
  • Ongoing training and professional development
  • Supportive leadership
  • Meaningful work that changes lives
  • Opportunities for advancement

Join a team committed to helping people grow in pride, live with dignity, and gain greater independence. Apply Today!


Requirements

What We're Looking For
  • At least 18 years of age
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Must have an unrestricted, valid driver's license and acceptable driving record
  • Reliable transportation
  • Ability to successfully complete required background checks and drug screening
  • Dependable attendance and the ability to work an 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 not required. PDI provides training.


 
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. 

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