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Part Time Direct Support Professional Jobs in Chicago, IL

The Opportunity As a Direct Support Professional, you will play a direct care role, assisting ... part-time or full-time basis. Compensation is dependent upon location, facility and experience ...

Join us today, and experience a career well lived. Part time evening schedule $19.45/hour THRIVE AS ... Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ...

Certified Direct Support Professionals

Skokie, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

... Part time/ full time, & shift work H.S Diploma DSP-Direct Support Professional certified ,Current CPR & First Aide Experience Preferred Certified Direct Professionals wanted for Adult Learning Day ...

Direct Support Professional

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$20.25 - $22.75/hr

The Direct Support Professional is responsible for delivering direct services to adults in Keshet's Residential Program in a manner that respects the person's needs as well as enhances their ...

Direct Support Professional

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$20.25 - $22.75/hr

The Direct Support Professional is responsible for delivering direct services to adults in Keshet's Residential Program in a manner that respects the person's needs as well as enhances their ...

Join us today, and experience a career well lived. Part time or fill-in schedules available $19.45 ... Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ...

SUMMARY Provide direct support to clients in either residential setting or day programming to ... Maintains professional communication with co-workers and manager(s) as well as clients' parents ...

Showing results 21-40

Part Time Direct Support Professional information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do part time direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time direct support professional in Chicago, IL is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Part Time Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving skills, and an understanding of developmental disabilities. Familiarity with individual service plans (ISPs), documentation software, and CPR/First Aid certification is often required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting clients’ independence. These competencies ensure the safety, well-being, and personal growth of individuals receiving care, while maintaining compliance with organizational and legal standards.

What is a part time direct support professional?

Part Time Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. Working part time, they help clients with personal care, daily activities, medication management, and community involvement. DSPs also provide emotional support and help promote independence, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. Their schedules are flexible, often including evenings and weekends, making this role ideal for those seeking fulfilling work with flexible hours.

What are some common challenges faced by part time direct support professionals, and how can they be managed?

Part-time Direct Support Professionals often face challenges such as adapting to varying client needs, maintaining consistency in support with limited hours, and coordinating effectively with full-time staff. To manage these, it's important to communicate regularly with the team, stay updated on individual care plans, and be proactive in seeking clarification on responsibilities. Building strong relationships with both clients and colleagues helps ensure seamless support and a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Part Time Direct Support Professional vs Part Time Personal Care Assistant?

AspectPart Time Direct Support ProfessionalPart Time Personal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes DSP certificationCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentSupporting individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsAssisting individuals with daily living activities, often in private homes or facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome care agencies, healthcare providers

Both roles involve providing personal support, but Direct Support Professionals typically work with individuals with disabilities in various settings, focusing on independence and community integration. Personal Care Assistants mainly assist with daily living tasks in private or home settings. While certifications overlap, DSPs often require additional training related to disabilities. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Chicago, IL? For Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Part Time Direct Support Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Part Time Direct Support Professional job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,892 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Aspire Chicago

Hillside, IL

$20.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description

Are you a caring and motivated individual? Do you enjoy building relationships and contributing to a positive environment? Do you have a passion for helping individuals develop their independence and achieve personal goals? Are you looking for a career with a purpose? 


If so, apply to join the Aspire team as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) today! We are looking for dedicated individuals to assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) homes. The Direct Support Professional (DSP) acts as an advocate for individuals by supporting their personal needs, encouraging respectful interactions with others, and creating a positive living environment. 


Aspire Direct Support Professional (DSP) Requirements

Requirements and Experience:

Proof of High School Diploma or GED

Valid driver's license, with 5 years of driving experience with a license, and an acceptable driving record for the past five years

Must pass required criminal background checks

Have and present in-person original copies of required I9 documents


Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Effective oral and written communication skills; ability to write reports

Comfortable using various computer software to stay connected (i.e. Outlook, Zoom, online training, etc.)

Ability to maintain confidential information

Ability to deal tactfully, respectfully, and courteously with participants, employees at all levels, families, and the general public


Preferred Experience:

Personal or professional experience in a caregiver role

1-year experience working with adults with developmental disabilities



We offer:

$20.50 - $21.50/hour (depending on experience)

Sign-on bonuses for full-time ($1,500) and part-time ($750) (paid out in three installments over 6 months)

Referral bonuses 

Paid training 

Retirement plan with matching contributions 

Health and insurance benefits (hours requirement) 

Paid time off benefits 

And more! (see benefits list below) 


At Aspire our values inspire our belief in the power of possible; we empower others to achieve their dreams, lend a hand to others, celebrate belonging, seek feedback from others to improve, and show respect and build trust. 


Aspire has entry-level full-time and part-time positions available. We consider all applicants who meet the minimum requirements listed above. Apply to join our team if you are just entering or returning to the workforce, have limited experience or education. We provide the training! 


Voted as one of the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for in Chicago!

We know that Together, We're Better!


Direct Support Professional (DSP) Position Responsibilities:

  • Support adult individuals with daily activities such as shopping, laundry,  money management, and home care
  • Assist individuals with grooming, bathing, toileting, and dressing as needed
  • Assist with connectivity to others through various technology platforms (i.e. Zoom)
  • Assist with meal preparation and cooking
  • Perform light housekeeping duties
  • Monitor or administer medication dosage to participants
  • Drive adult individuals to doctor appointments, to and from work, and various errands (company provided vehicle)
  • May provide mobility support to participants, which includes lifting or walking utilizing adaptive equipment
  • Complete and submit reports
  • Provide companionship to individuals
  • Encourage attitudes and behaviors that foster community inclusion
  • Serve as a liaison to represent Aspire in the community
  • Complete the established Illinois Department of Human Services DSP training (training provided through Aspire), including medication training, and maintain required certifications and on-going training 
  • Additional duties as assigned


 Aspire was founded in 1960 and is recognized as a leader in providing bold, pioneering, and uncompromising services to adults with developmental disabilities, their families, and the community. In 2019, we joined forces with NorthPointe Resources to be one of the most recognized and respected disability service providers across the Chicago metropolitan area, Lake County (Illinois), and southeastern Wisconsin areas. 



Benefits at Aspire (a waiting period applies for some benefits): 


Full Time (regularly scheduled to work at least 37 1/2 hours per week) and Part Time 30 (regularly scheduled to work between 37 1/2 and 30 hours per week): 

  • Health Insurance (including dental and vision) 
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Benefit Time (Vacation, Sick, Personal)
  • 13 Paid Holidays
  • 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
  • Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Pet insurance
  • Other voluntary Insurances available


Part Time (regularly scheduled to work less than 30 hours per week):

  • Health Insurance (if hours requirement met after a year of employment)
  • Paid Time Off - 4 Hours Earned for Every 520 Hours Worked
  • Paid Leave For All - 1 Hour Earned for Every 40 Hours Worked (maximum accrual 40 hours) 
  • Sick Time - 1 Hour Earned for Every 40 Hours Worked (maximum accrual of 192 hours) 
  • Holiday Premium Pay
  • 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Pet Insurance 


Aspire's priority is keeping our team members and participants healthy and safe. PPE is provided and regular cleaning and disinfecting regiments are followed to maintain a safe work and living environment. Hand sanitizer is available throughout our facilities.  


Aspire is an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. 


Aspire is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities so that an applicant may complete the essential functions of a position. The essential functions of positions are outlined in a position's job description.  To request an accommodation or if you have a question regarding what the essential functions of a position are please contact the People Team at 708.497.4573. Â