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Live In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Grand Junction, CO

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Live In Direct Support Professional information

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in direct support professional in Grand Junction, CO is $15.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $17.12 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.

What job categories do people searching Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Grand Junction, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Grand Junction, CO are:

What cities near Grand Junction, CO are hiring for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Grand Junction, CO with the most Live In Direct Support Professional job openings:

Youth Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Ariel Clinical Services

Grand Junction, CO • On-site

$17 - $18.53/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Description

Youth Direct Support Professional (DSP)

One Part-Time Position. 20-29 hours per week.

24/7 Facility, shifts could be day, evenings or overnights

Hiring Range: $17.00-$18.53/ hr., depending upon education and experience.

This position will remain open until filled.


Position Summary

Direct Support Professionals are responsible for providing a therapeutic environment for behaviorally and emotionally impaired individuals in community, facility and residential based settings as assigned.


Minimum Requirements

Required:

High School Diploma or equivalent. Minimum age 21.

Preferred:

  • One to two years demonstrated successful working experience in related fields i.e., with the I/DD population, or in a mental health field.
  • Bilingual in ASL or Spanish

We care about our team! At Ariel we offer an expansive benefit package:

Subject to Eligibility.

Medical, Dental, and Vision at affordable rates.

Group Life Insurance 100% covered.

Group Accident, Hospitalization, Identity Fraud, and Critical Illness plan available at a discounted rate.

HSA & FSA employee funded accounts.

Generous Paid Time Off accrual - 13 PTO days in the first year, 48 hours of paid sick leave, and 11 paid holidays.

$50/month for participation in Wellness Program.

Retirement 403B & 403B employer match up to 5% at one year anniversary.

Mileage Reimbursement

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

And committed to a Culture of Awesomeness!


Ariel Clinical Services has been in business for over 30 years!

Ariel has grown significantly since its early days of serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Today, we offer a broad range of services including residential programs, vocational support, foster care and adoption, therapy, and much more.

We are proud to say we have expanded our reach beyond the Western Slope! Now, we provide services in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo.

At Ariel, we deeply value our community and recognize the vital role it plays in the lives of our members and employees. That's why we're committed to staying engaged through both financial contributions and hands-on service initiatives.

As we continue to grow, we're equally committed to fostering professional growth for our team. Many of our entry-level roles offer clear pathways for advancement within the organization.


Ariel Clinical Services Mission

To provide safe, nurturing, and supportive environments for children, families, and adults so that they may have the opportunities to develop their strengths, maximize their potential, and fully participate in society.



Requirements

Essential Duties and Responsibilities  

  1. Work closely with therapists to incorporate treatment related goals to youth to reduce      behavioral health concerns. 
  2. Promote a safe environment for children and youth. 
  3. Teach self-help, social, interpersonal, and daily living skills. 
  4. Follow and implement assigned individualized support and services for children and youth. 
  5. Provide behavior management as required (i.e. defusing anger, emotional outbursts). 
  6. Respond to crisis situations and assist crisis staff with support and services. 
  7. Document and/or communicate per procedures/protocols and required pertinent information regarding child/youth for who this position is responsible for at any given time. 
  8. Observe and document child and youth's progress in accordance with Medicaid standards through documentation databases. 
  9. Maintain professional boundaries while establishing a trustworthy and beneficial relationship.
  10. Co-Facilitate groups with children and youth. 
  11. Transport child/youth in Ariel van or personal vehicle, as needed. (to/from appointments, scheduled events, emergencies, individual and program outings. 
  12. Administer medications as prescribed, including proper documentation of medication administration; medication errors; medication storage; medication counts per QMAP standards. 
  13. Report any issues/concerns. 
  14. Complete training required for position.
  15. Communicate regularly and effectively with supervisor, parents, guardians, case manager and all other individuals involved with the client. 
  16. Perform other duties as assigned..Â