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Live In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Akron, OH

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 ...

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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Solon, OH · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides assistance and support to individuals with disabilities or special needs to help them live independently, achieve personal goals, and participate fully in ...

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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Solon, OH · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides assistance and support to individuals with disabilities or special needs to help them live independently, achieve personal goals, and participate fully in ...

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Live In Direct Support Professional information

See Akron, OH salary details

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How much do live in direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in direct support professional in Akron, OH is $15.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do live in direct support professionals get paid the most?

Live-in direct support professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services, such as certain metropolitan areas or states with robust funding for disability services. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific employer or agency.

What are some common challenges faced by live in direct support professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Live In Direct Support Professionals often face challenges such as maintaining a healthy work-life balance, managing emotional stress, and adapting to the unique needs of each individual they support. Since the role involves residing in the client's home, clear boundaries and communication with both the individual and their family are essential. Utilizing self-care strategies, seeking support from supervisors or peer networks, and participating in ongoing training can help address these challenges and ensure long-term success in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a live in direct support professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Live In Direct Support Professional, you need a solid understanding of personal care, daily living assistance, and behavior management, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant experience or certifications like CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with electronic documentation systems and assistive care technologies is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal communication, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for building trust and supporting clients’ independence. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, well-being, and quality of life of individuals with developmental or physical disabilities in a residential setting.

Is being a live in direct support professional worth it?

A live-in direct support professional provides around-the-clock assistance to individuals with disabilities, offering stability and a close working relationship. The role often involves irregular hours and requires patience, but it can be rewarding for those interested in caregiving and support work, with opportunities for skill development and certifications such as CPR and first aid.

What is the difference between Live In Direct Support Professional vs Residential Support Worker?

AspectLive In Direct Support ProfessionalResidential Support Worker
CredentialsCPR/First Aid, background check, sometimes certification in disability supportCPR/First Aid, background check, relevant certifications often required
Work EnvironmentProvides 24/7 support in a live-in setting, often in clients' homes or group homesWorks in residential facilities or community homes, may involve shift work
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by disability agencies, nonprofits, or government programsEmployed by residential care facilities, community agencies, or nonprofits

Both roles involve supporting individuals with disabilities, but Live In Direct Support Professionals provide continuous, live-in assistance, while Residential Support Workers typically work scheduled shifts in residential settings. The choice depends on the level of involvement and work schedule preferred.

What is a live in direct support professional?

Live In Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who reside in the homes of individuals with disabilities or special needs to provide daily support and assistance. They help with activities of daily living, such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation. In addition to ensuring safety and comfort, live-in DSPs may also assist with social, educational, or vocational activities, helping clients achieve greater independence and quality of life. Their ongoing presence allows for continuous care and support tailored to each individual's needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Akron, OH? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Akron, OH are:
What are popular job titles related to Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Akron, OH? For Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Akron, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Akron, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Akron, OH are:
What cities near Akron, OH are hiring for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Akron, OH with the most Live In Direct Support Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Live In Direct Support Professional job openings in Akron, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 63% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,404 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Karing Hands Provider Services, LLC

Massillon, OH • On-site

$15.50 - $16.35/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a caregiver, teacher, and mentor that works with individuals with intellectual, physical, or developmental disabilities. DSP should be able to effectively communicate with the individual as well as interpret verbal and nonverbal cues to best meet the needs of the individual.


DSPs support individuals where they live by:


Helping them live as independently as possible

Helping ensure they are healthy and safe

Helping with daily life activities like cooking, cleaning, dressing, bathing, shopping, transportation and community activities

Helping them identify talents, interests, goals and abilities to discover long-term jobs

Providing one-on-one marketing and recruitment services to connect them with employers

Providing job coaching, on-site support and training at employment sites

Requirements:

As a DSP, You''ll need to provide:

Daily Living Support

Skill Building

Community Integration

Health and Safety

Emotional Support

Advocate rIghts and services for persons they support


We'll provide extra training for DSP's that you'll need before working with individuals.


In Addition, you'll need to meet these requirements:

18 years of age or older

Must have a valid Social Security Card and valid Government Photo ID

You must have at least One Year Full Time paid Work Experience in direct care

Have a minimum High School Diploma or General Education Development Certificate

Be able to speak, read, write, and understand English at a sufficient level

Have a valid Driver's License, Auto Registration, and Auto Insurance

Be able to pass a drug screen

Have a background free of offenses that preclude employment