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Live In Direct Support Professional Jobs in DeKalb, IL

Senior Helpers

Live In Caregiver

Geneva, IL · On-site

$240/day

Reliable Caregivers with Professional Work Experience are Highly Encouraged to Apply. * Schedule ... We are growing our team and looking to hire caregivers to support seniors with dignity and joy. We ...

Senior Helpers - Algonquin

Live In Caregiver

Elgin, IL · On-site

$1/hr

If you have at least one year of hands-on caregiving experience--whether professional or caring for ... Career Growth Opportunities * 24/7 Office Support - You're never alone * Recognition and Rewards ...

Senior Helpers

Live In Caregiver

Elgin, IL · On-site

If you have at least one year of hands-on caregiving experience-whether professional or caring for ... Career Growth Opportunities * 24/7 Office Support - You're never alone * Recognition and Rewards ...

Senior Helpers - Algonquin

Live In Caregiver

Elgin, IL · On-site

If you have at least one year of hands-on caregiving experience--whether professional or caring for ... Career Growth Opportunities * 24/7 Office Support - You're never alone * Recognition and Rewards ...

HCAOA

Live-in Caregiver

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$140/hr

Must possess a valid driver's license and automobile insurance Compensation: $140/24 hours (Live-in ... Our Homewatch CareGivers University is a professionally-developed training platform designed to ...

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Live In Direct Support Professional information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in direct support professional in DeKalb, IL is $15.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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 shift work, requires patience and communication skills, and can include benefits such as housing and flexible schedules, making it a rewarding but demanding position.

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 complexity of care required, with some states offering additional stipends or benefits for live-in roles.

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For Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in DeKalb, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in DeKalb, IL look for?

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What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Live In Direct Support Professional job openings:

Live In Direct Support Professional jobs near you

Special Needs Direct Care Support - Live-In Position

Mooseheart, IL • On-site

MooseHeart Child City & School
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about MooseHeart Child City & Schoolexternal

$17.25 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Special Needs Direct Care Live-In Family TeacherLocation: Onsite – Mooseheart, IllinoisFull-Time Live-In Residential PositionSalary Range: $43,500 – $45,000 annuallyMake a Meaningful Difference Every DayMooseheart Child City & School is seeking compassionate and dedicated professionals to join our Horizons Residential Living team as a Live-In Family Teacher. This unique role offers the opportunity to live and work within a supportive residential community while making a lasting impact in the lives of youth with developmental and intellectual disabilities.As a Live-In Family Teacher, you will help create a stable, nurturing home environment where youth can develop independence, confidence, and life skills. Through daily guidance, mentorship, and positive role modeling, you will support youth as they navigate challenges and build a foundation for future success.This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about mentoring, teaching life skills, and supporting youth development in a family-style residential setting.Key ResponsibilitiesAs a Horizons Live-In Family Teacher, you will:Provide direct care, supervision, and support for youth in a family-style residential homeCreate and maintain a safe, structured, and supportive living environmentAssist youth in developing daily living skills, independence, and positive coping strategiesSupport youth in addressing behavioral, emotional, and social challengesServe as a positive role model for healthy relationships, communication, and personal responsibilityImplement individualized care and support strategies as part of the residential treatment teamCollaborate with supervisors, clinicians, and residential staff to support youth successQualificationsSuccessful candidates will demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting youth and creating a positive residential environment.Preferred qualifications include:Direct Support Professional (DSP) certification requiredExperience working with youth with developmental or intellectual disabilities preferredStrong communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to demonstrate patience, empathy, and emotional intelligenceEffective problem-solving and conflict resolution skillsAbility to work collaboratively within a residential team environmentWhy Join MooseheartWorking at Mooseheart means becoming part of a mission-driven community dedicated to helping youth reach their full potential.Benefits include:Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance401(k) Retirement PlanLife InsuranceFlexible Spending Account (FSA)Paid Time OffCompetitive SalaryThe opportunity to live and work in a unique residential community environmentJoin Our TeamIf you are passionate about helping youth grow, develop independence, and build brighter futures, we invite you to apply to become part of the Horizons Residential Living team at Mooseheart Child City & School.Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of the youth we serve.

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