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Live In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Starkville, MS

Dodge's Southern Style

2nd Shift Leader

MS · On-site

$18/hr

Neat & clean in appearance *High-energy, guest service oriented demeanor Shift Leader Job Benefits ... We value relationships and our Shift Leaders are the direct support to creating positive ...

Dodge's Southern Style

1st Shift Leader

MS · On-site

$18/hr

Neat & clean in appearance *High-energy, guest service oriented demeanor Shift Leader Job Benefits ... We value relationships and our Shift Leaders are the direct support to creating positive ...

Reliant Rehabilitation

Occupational Therapist

Eupora, MS · On-site

$33.50 - $44/hr

... support, professional development, and growth opportunities. Our leadership team began their ... With operations in 44 states and more than 900 communities nationwide, Reliant can match your ...

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All JobsLive In Direct Support Professional JobsLive In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Starkville, MS

Live In Direct Support Professional information

See Starkville, MS salary details

$8

$14

$18

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in direct support professional in Starkville, MS is $14.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $15.77 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 Starkville, MS look for?

The top searched job categories for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Starkville, MS are:

What cities near Starkville, MS are hiring for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Starkville, MS with the most Live In Direct Support Professional job openings:

Live In Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Live In Direct Support Professional job openings in Starkville, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 62% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,409 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional/PCA

Ascent Healthcare Management

Starkville, MS • On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications
 

A Direct Support Professional, or Direct Support Care Professional, cares for individuals experiencing developmental or intellectual disabilities or illnesses. Their main duties include helping patients complete basic housekeeping tasks, transporting patients to appointments or other social outings and keeping patients safe from potential health hazards in their surrounding environment.

Direct Support Professional duties and responsibilities 

Direct Support Professionals work with individuals with mental or developmental disabilities by creating behavior plans, teaching self-care skills, cooking meals and doing laundry. Additional duties may include: 

  • Assisting clients with daily personal tasks, including bathing and dressing
  • Completing housekeeping tasks such as vacuuming, washing dishes and tidying
  • Helping plan client appointments and organize a schedule
  • Organizing with transportation arrangements to appointments
  • Shopping for groceries and preparing meals that meet specific client dietary needs
  • Encouraging client engagement in social networks and communities