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Lead Direct Support Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Doma

Lead Direct Support Professional

Troy, OH · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

The role of the Lead Direct Support Professional is to help individuals live in their own homes, identify and achieve goals, and improve the quality of their lives. Your role is responsible for ...

Resources for Human Development

$19.25/hr

Lead Direct Support Professional Job Type: Full Time Job Location: Zionsville, PA Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday 7a-3p Position Summary The Lead Direct Support Professional (LDSP) directly supports the ...

Doma

Lead Direct Support Professional

Troy, OH · On-site

$17/hr

The role of the Lead Direct Support Professional is to help individuals live in their own homes, identify and achieve goals, and improve the quality of their lives. Your role is responsible for ...

DOMA OH

Lead Direct Support Professional

Lima, OH

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

The role of the Lead Direct Support Professional is to help individuals live in their own homes, identify and achieve goals, and improve the quality of their lives. Your role is responsible for ...

Doma

Lead Direct Support Professional

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$17.50/hr

The role of the Lead Direct Support Professional is to help individuals live in their own homes, identify and achieve goals, and improve the quality of their lives. Your role is responsible for ...

Doma

Lead Direct Support Professional

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$17.50/hr

The role of the Lead Direct Support Professional is to help individuals live in their own homes, identify and achieve goals, and improve the quality of their lives. Your role is responsible for ...

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Lead Direct Support information

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$31K

$161.2K

$206K

How much do lead direct support jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead direct support in the United States is $161,189.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a DSP a stressful job?

Being a Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) can be stressful due to the responsibility of providing care and support to individuals with disabilities, often requiring patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging behaviors. The job may involve irregular hours, physical activity, and emotional demands, but it also offers the reward of making a positive impact on clients' lives.

What are some common challenges faced by Lead Direct Support professionals, and how are they typically addressed within a team setting?

Lead Direct Support professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with direct care responsibilities, managing diverse client needs, and supporting team members through complex situations. These challenges are typically addressed through regular team meetings, clear communication channels, and ongoing professional development. Collaboration with supervisors, therapists, and other support staff helps ensure that both client care and staff well-being are prioritized, fostering a supportive and effective work environment.

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

To thrive as a Lead Direct Support Professional, you need experience in direct care, a strong understanding of developmental disabilities, and typically a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with care documentation systems, behavior management tools, and medication administration procedures is often required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, leadership, and patience are crucial for mentoring staff and building trust with clients. These skills ensure effective support for individuals with special needs and foster a positive, compliant, and safe care environment.

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

AspectLead Direct SupportDirect Support Professional
CertificationsOften requires additional certifications or training in leadership and specialized careTypically requires basic caregiving certifications or training
Work EnvironmentSupervises team members, coordinates care plans, and manages schedulesProvides direct care and support to individuals with disabilities or needs
ResponsibilitiesLeadership, training, and overseeing daily activitiesAssisting with daily living activities and personal care

The main difference between Lead Direct Support and Direct Support Professional lies in their responsibilities and level of oversight. Lead Direct Support roles involve supervisory duties, team coordination, and leadership, while Direct Support Professionals focus on providing direct care and support to individuals. Both roles are essential in the caregiving industry, but the Lead position typically requires additional certifications and experience.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2000 a day often include high-level consulting, specialized medical professionals such as surgeons, certain executive roles, or freelance specialists like software developers and legal experts with significant experience. These positions typically require advanced skills, certifications, or extensive expertise and may involve project-based or contract work with high hourly or daily rates.

What are Lead Direct Support professionals?

Lead Direct Support professionals are experienced caregivers who provide assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, often in residential or community settings. They not only deliver direct care, such as helping with daily living activities, but also supervise and mentor other support staff. Lead Direct Support professionals are responsible for ensuring high-quality care, maintaining documentation, and communicating with families or healthcare providers. Their leadership helps ensure that all clients receive consistent and compassionate support.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Lead Direct Support role typically does not pay $10,000 a month without significant experience or specialized skills. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship, but they usually require strong skills, networking, and sometimes certifications. Most roles with such income levels are performance-based and may involve commission or bonuses.

What is a direct support lead job description?

A direct support lead is responsible for supervising and coordinating staff who provide direct care and assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs. They ensure that clients receive quality support, follow care plans, and adhere to safety protocols, often overseeing scheduling, training, and compliance requirements. Strong communication, leadership skills, and knowledge of care procedures are essential for this role.
More about Lead Direct Support jobs
What job categories do people searching Lead Direct Support jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Direct Support jobs are:
Lead Direct Support jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Direct Support job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $161,189 per year, or $77.5 per hour.
Lead Direct Support Professional

Lead Direct Support Professional

Orion Associates

Crystal, MN • On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Meridian Services offers person-centered supports and cares to individuals with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities across a diverse range of settings. These include Residential Services, In-Home Services, and Case Management Services. Today, we have 30 group homes, 150 In-Home person served, and over 100 Case Managers across the state of Minnesota. Our mission is to provide services of the finest quality so that those we serve will be able to achieve their goals!
Job Title: Lead Direct Support Professional
Location: Crystal, MN
Schedule: 7 days on 7 days off with availability between 6AM - 10PM (the schedule will be made a week in advance). During the 7-day period you will be on call for your program. While this position has a primary program, this position will also be cross trained at 5-6 other programs.
Wage: $19.00 - $25.00 per hour including Full Time benefits. Wage based on location and experience. Select programs offer an elevated weekend rate for Lead staff.
Job Summary:
The Lead Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a crucial role in supporting individuals in achieving their goals for greater independence and the development of lifelong skills. This position involves a combination of direct support responsibilities and administrative tasks on a weekly basis. The Lead DSP will be responsible for at least 20 hours of direct care or more based on the needs of the program. They will need to support all medical appointments, training new staff, emergency client issues, and on call coverage for a team of programs. The Lead DSP will also assist the manager with coordinating appointments, managing paperwork, and performing other miscellaneous duties as assigned. Ideal candidates will have experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, a strong understanding of person-centered programming, and experience in managing verbal and physical aggression.
Essential Job Duties:
  • Work on tailored outcomes with each person in the home. Outcomes may include: budgeting, behavioral management, community exploration, meal planning, organizational skills, coping skills, and/or physical fitness.
  • Assist with paperwork and attending doctor appointments
  • Be an active participant with individuals served when working on outcomes and out in the community.
  • Assist with personal cares as needed per person served
  • Provide guidance and instructional teaching to persons while building life skills.
  • Provide cleaning, cooking and medication administration to the people living at the home
  • Provide supervision and transportation in the community on activities and appointments. Typically, a company vehicle is available, but times may require use of own personal vehicle.

Required Qualifications:
  • 21 years of age or older per licensing requirements
  • Proficient in spoken and written English language
  • Comfortable providing personal cares (including but not limited to: bathroom supports, bathing/showering, medication administration)
  • Successful clearance of Department of Human Services background check
  • Have a vehicle to use for work related purposes with current car insurance
  • Have an acceptable driving record as determined by Meridian Services policy
  • Have a Wi-Fi-enabled device for work related purposes

Preferred Experience:
  • At least 1 year supporting individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and/or mental health diagnosis
  • At least 1 year working with individuals with verbal and physical aggressions
  • Experience implementing Emergency Use of Manuel Restraints (applicable at select programs)

Meridian Services Company Benefits and Perks Include:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance offered
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Training
  • 401K plan with employer matching after 1 year
  • Company-Provided Life and Short Team Disability Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance and Pet Insurance offered
  • Growth and Management Opportunities!
  • Employee of the month recognition and gift card

Meridian Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified candidates are encouraged to Apply Today!

Apply