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Internship Direct Support Professional Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ASG Home Care

Direct Support Professional

Edison, NJ · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Position Overview As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with ASG Home Care, you will provide hands-on support that promotes independence, community engagement, and daily living success. As a Direct ...

ASG Home Care

Direct Support Professional

Linwood, NJ

$17 - $24/hr

Position Overview As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with ASG Home Care, you will provide hands-on support that promotes independence, community engagement, and daily living success. As a Direct ...

ABBOTT HOUSE

Direct Support Professional

Elmsford, NY

$17.74 - $18.79/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for supporting persons receiving services while promoting their personal, physical and emotional wellbeing. The primary role of the ...

ASG Home Care

Direct Support Professional

Mantua, NJ

$17 - $25/hr

Position Overview As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with ASG Home Care, you will provide hands-on support that promotes independence, community engagement, and daily living success. As a Direct ...

Bancroft

Direct Support Professional

Cherry Hill, NJ · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Direct Support Professional Shift: Part-time on weekends Sat., 9a-9p & Sun.3p-11p Location: Cherry Hill, NJ Bancroft is a leading service-provider for children and adults with autism, other ...

Bancroft

Direct Support Professional

Voorhees, NJ · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Our Direct Support Professionals must have a strong desire to work with autistic, intellectually and/or developmentally disabled individuals . Position: Direct Support Professional (Adult program ...

Bancroft

Direct Support Professional

Cherry Hill, NJ · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Direct Support Professional (Adult program) Location: Cherry Hill, NJ Shift: Sun.&Tues., 3p-9p & Fri. & Sat. 3p-11p Bancroft is a leading service-provider for children and adults with autism, other ...

Bancroft

Direct Support Professional

Cherry Hill, NJ · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Direct Support Professional Shift: Part-time on weekends Sat., 9a-9p & Sun.3p-11p Location: Cherry Hill, NJ Bancroft is a leading service-provider for children and adults with autism, other ...

Bancroft

Direct Support Professional

Hopewell, NJ · On-site

$19.06 - $19.44/hr

Our Direct Support Professionals must have a strong desire to work with autistic, intellectually and/or developmentally disabled individuals . Responsibilities Position: Direct Support Professional ...

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Internship Direct Support Professional information

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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 the United States is $16.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.55 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 cities are hiring for Internship Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities with the most Internship Direct Support Professional job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Direct Support Professional jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Direct Support Professional jobs include:
Internship Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional

Limitless Possibilities, LLC

Denmark, WI • On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Direct support professionals are responsible for the direct supervision of adults with disabilities in various settings such as the home, community, and vocational sites. It is the responsibility of direct support professionals to see to the specific needs of each client served, provide and teach opportunities, provide options for informed choice, and follow guidelines according to clients' service and support plans. Direct support professionals report to program supervisors.
Qualifications:
  • Be at least 18 years of age (21 years of age for driving positions)
  • Possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Some experience in providing community supports to people with developmental disabilities
  • The ability to reason and problem solve
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Possess a valid driver license
  • Possess automobile insurance
  • Be willing to perform any reasonable request to meet the needs of the persons served
  • Ability to use computer applications such as a word processor, e-mail, etc. in a time-efficient manner
  • Capable of working with adults with developmental disabilities by communicating verbally to instruct, demonstrate, train, and work cooperatively
  • Stand, sit, bend, lift, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and move intermittently
  • Must frequently lift/move up to 25 pounds

Job Duties:
  • Household Management: Direct support professionals assist the individual with household management (e.g. meal preparation laundry, cleaning and decorating) and with transportation needs to maximize his or her skills, abilities and independence.
  • Facilitation of Services: Direct support professionals have knowledge sufficient to fulfill their roles related to individual service plan development, implementation, and review.
  • Health and Wellness: Direct support professionals promotes the health and wellness of all clients.
  • Organizational Participation: Direct support professionals are familiar with the organizational mission, vision and values.
  • Documentation: Direct support professionals are aware of the requirement for documentation in his or her organization and is able to manage these requirements efficiently.
  • Client Empowerment: Direct support professionals enhance the ability of the individual to lead a self-determining life by providing the support and information necessary to build self-esteem, and assertiveness and to make decisions.
  • Assessment: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about formal and informal assessment practices in order to respond to the needs, desires, and interest of the individuals.
  • Advocacy: Direct support professionals should be knowledgeable about the diverse challenges facing individuals (i.e. human rights/client rights).
  • Community and Service Networking: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about the formal and informal supports available in his or her community and are skilled in assisting the individual to identify and gain access to such supports.
  • Building and Maintaining Friendships and Relationships: Direct support professionals support the participant in the development of friendships and other relationships.
  • Communication: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about the range of effective communication strategies and skills necessary to establish a collaborative relationship with the individual.
  • Crisis Intervention: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about crisis prevention, intervention, and resolution techniques and should match such techniques to particular circumstances and individuals.
  • Professionalism: Direct support professionals pursue knowledge and information necessary to perform job duties.
  • Vocational, Educational, and Career Support: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about the career and education related concerns of individuals.

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