1

Internship Direct Support Professional Jobs in Boca Raton, FL

Direct Support Professional

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Boca Raton, FL

$14.25 - $17.25/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Pembroke Pines, FL · On-site

$14 - $17/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 ...

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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Pembroke Pines, FL · On-site

$14 - $17/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Davie, FL · 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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Pembroke Pines, FL · On-site

$14 - $17/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Pembroke Pines, FL · On-site

$14 - $17/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Internship Direct Support Professional information

See Boca Raton, FL salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do internship direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship direct support professional in Boca Raton, FL is $15.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Direct Support Professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Direct Support Professional, you need a basic understanding of person-centered care, strong interpersonal skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring coursework in social services or healthcare. Familiarity with documentation software, incident reporting systems, and basic first aid or CPR certification is often required. Patience, active listening, and a genuine interest in helping others are crucial soft skills that set top candidates apart. These abilities ensure the safety, well-being, and personal growth of individuals with disabilities while supporting a positive and respectful care environment.

What degree do you need to be a direct support professional?

A direct support professional typically does not need a specific degree but often benefits from a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers prefer candidates with post-secondary education or certifications in human services, caregiving, or related fields, and relevant skills include communication and patience.

What is the work of a direct support professional?

A direct support professional provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, household tasks, and community integration. They often work in clients' homes or community settings and may require training in first aid or CPR to ensure safety and effective support.

What is a DSP intern?

A DSP intern is a student or entry-level individual gaining experience in the role of a Direct Support Professional, assisting individuals with disabilities or special needs. The internship typically involves learning caregiving skills, understanding client needs, and working under supervision in a supportive environment. It may require relevant certifications or training, such as CPR or first aid, and often follows a set schedule aligned with educational or organizational requirements.

What companies hire special needs adults?

Many organizations and companies hire special needs adults for roles such as direct support professionals, retail associates, or in community-based services. These employers often partner with government agencies, non-profits, and vocational rehabilitation programs to provide employment opportunities that support skill development and independence.

What types of responsibilities can an Internship Direct Support Professional expect during their placement?

As an Internship Direct Support Professional, you can expect to assist individuals with disabilities in daily living activities, such as personal care, meal preparation, and community engagement. Interns often work alongside experienced staff, learning how to implement individualized support plans and contribute to a person-centered environment. You may also help facilitate recreational activities, document progress, and participate in team meetings. This role offers a hands-on introduction to direct care, teamwork, and advocacy, providing valuable experience for those considering a career in human services.

What is the difference between Internship Direct Support Professional vs Direct Support Professional?

AspectInternship Direct Support ProfessionalDirect Support Professional
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required; may be pursuing relevant certificationsRequires certification or training, such as DSP certification
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised, learning-focusedFull-time or part-time work supporting individuals with disabilities
Employer & IndustryEducational or training programs, nonprofitsHealthcare, social services, community agencies

Internship Direct Support Professionals are usually students gaining experience and may not have full certification, working under supervision. In contrast, Direct Support Professionals are fully employed, certified, and provide ongoing support to individuals with disabilities. The internship role serves as a training period, while the direct support role involves regular responsibilities in the field.

What is an Internship Direct Support Professional?

An Internship Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a trainee or student working under supervision to assist individuals with disabilities or special needs in their daily activities. The internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in supporting clients with personal care, social integration, and independent living skills. Internship DSPs typically work in settings such as group homes, day programs, or community organizations, helping clients achieve their goals and improve their quality of life while learning from experienced professionals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Boca Raton, FL? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Boca Raton, FL are:
Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional

Sunrise

West Palm Beach, FL • On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

Are you passionate about helping others? Would you like to make a difference in someone's life? If you answered yes, we encourage you to join the Sunrise family! Sunrise is one of the largest, private not-for-profit organizations in the country dedicated to serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. At Sunrise we pride ourselves in taking an individualized approach in addressing the unique needs of each person seeking or receiving services. As an employer, we seek to provide an environment of growth and development for our employees that is consistent with recognizing the rights, needs, and wants of all people.

Purpose:

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 complete the required pre-employment Background and Drug Screenings
  • Must possess a valid Driver's License with all necessary endorsements and have a minimum of 3 years of driving experience.
  • Must possess basic computer skills
  • High School Diploma or equivalent if required by work location
  • Minimum one year of experience working in the human service field if required by work location


Essential Functions:

  • Identifies and reports any suspected abuse or violations of an individual's rights
  • Provides support, assistance and supervision to meet the needs and goals of the individuals according to their plans
  • Ensures that each individual's training, behavior and support programs are being implemented and documented in accordance with regulatory requirements
  • Ensures that the health, safety and well-being of the individuals are protected at all times
  • Provides a positive, reinforcing environment that promotes independence and choice
  • Follows positioning schedules, uses proper equipment and assistive devices per plan
  • Provides necessary level of assistance for appropriate diet, texture and equipment
  • Ensures all homes, outside areas and vehicles are well maintained and organized
  • Performs all other duties as assigned

SR97A9

This position will remain open until lled. If you were referred by a current Sunrise employee, please make sure to indicate so when completing the employment application process.
This company is a Drug-Free Workplace. As part of our policies, all candidates for employment must submit to a pre-employment drug screening after receiving a conditional offer of employment. A positive confirmed screening, or refusal to submit to such screening, will result in a withdrawal of the conditional job offer.
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 equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.