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Part Time Direct Support Professional Jobs in Cleveland, OH

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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 ...

Be Seen First

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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Part Time Direct Support Professional information

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time direct support professional in Cleveland, OH is $15.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Is being a part time direct support professional a stressful job?

Part-time direct support professionals often work in challenging environments that require patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle emergencies. The job can be stressful due to the responsibility of supporting individuals with disabilities or special needs, but workload and stress levels vary depending on the setting and individual circumstances.

Where do part time direct support professionals get paid the most?

Part time direct support professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services. States or areas with a strong focus on healthcare, social services, or specialized support programs often offer higher pay rates for these roles. Compensation can also vary based on certifications, experience, and the specific employer or organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Cleveland, OH?

The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Cleveland, OH are:

What are popular job titles related to Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Cleveland, OH?

For Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Cleveland, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Cleveland, OH look for?

The top searched job categories for Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Cleveland, OH are:

What cities near Cleveland, OH are hiring for Part Time Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Cleveland, OH with the most Part Time Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Part Time Direct Support Professional job openings in Cleveland, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,849 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Bedford, OH • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Location: Cuyahoga County

Employment Type: PRN or Part-time (10–20 hrs/weekly)

Compensation: $13–$19 per hour based on experience and schedule

Schedule: rotating shifts; flexible hours including evenings/weekends

Travel: Required throughout Cuyahoga County

Job Description

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) , you will provide person-centered support to individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) in their home and in the community.

This is not a home health aide or home sitter position — a Direct Support Professional (DSP) mission is to empower individuals through direct coaching, self advocacy, and to support individuals in building skills, achieving goals, and increasing their independence.

✅ Key Responsibilities:

● Deliver direct professional assistance to individuals with DD in cultivating independence, mastering vocational skills, and fostering meaningful community integration.

● Follow and implement Individual Service Plans (ISPs) tailored to each person’s support services.

● Complete accurate and timely documentation (within 24 hours) of services provided and client progress.

● Maintain and promote the rights, dignity, and choices of each individual served.

● Assist with administrative tasks (e.g. completing reports, preparing documents) as needed.

What We’re Looking For:

● Passionate about empowering individuals with disabilities

● Responsible and able to manage time effectively across multiple client sites

● Strong communicators—both verbally and in writing

● Flexible and adaptable to a rotating, community-based schedule

● Tech-savvy and comfortable using a smartphone, tablet, or laptop for documentation

Minimum Qualifications:

● Age 18 or older

● High school diploma or GED

● CPR (required)

● At least 1 year of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities (volunteer work, internships, or care giving roles)

● Valid Ohio driver’s license, active auto insurance, and reliable transportation

● Clean criminal background and drug-free lifestyle

● Ability to work independently and as part of a team

● Availability for rotating shifts, including evenings and weekends

What You’ll Need

● Your own smartphone, laptop, or tablet for documentation

● A willingness to drive within Cuyahoga County

● A collaborative mindset and a passion for inclusive support

Preferred Qualities

● Interest in a future career in social work, education, vocational rehab, or psychology

● Experience in community employment, coaching, or peer support

● Familiarity with person-centered planning or trauma informed care 

Compensation & Schedule

● Part-Time or Per Diem (10–20 hours/week): $13/hour - $19/hour 

● Mileage reimbursement for personal vehicle use

● Flexible scheduling, based on clients needs