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Program Manager Direct Support Professional Jobs

Direct Support Professional

Morgan, PA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Program Services Reports to: House manager, Assistant Program Manager, or Program Manager The Primary Responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of ...

New

Direct Support Professional

Renfrew, PA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Program Services Reports to: House manager, Assistant Program Manager, or Program Manager The Primary Responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of ...

Direct Support Professional

Mcdonald, PA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Program Services Reports to: House manager, Assistant Program Manager, or Program Manager The Primary Responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of ...

Direct Support Professional

Industry, PA ยท On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Program Services Reports to: House manager, Assistant Program Manager, or Program Manager The Primary Responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of ...

Direct Support Professional

Fombell, PA ยท On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Program Services Reports to: House manager, Assistant Program Manager, or Program Manager The Primary Responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of ...

New

Direct Support Professional

Wexford, PA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Program Services Reports to: House manager, Assistant Program Manager, or Program Manager The Primary Responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of ...

New

Direct Support Professional

White Oak, PA ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Program Services Reports to: House manager, Assistant Program Manager, or Program Manager The Primary Responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of ...

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Program Manager Direct Support Professional information

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How much do program manager direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for program manager direct support professional in the United States is $16.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Program Manager Direct Support Professional vs Direct Support Professional?

AspectProgram Manager Direct Support ProfessionalDirect Support Professional
CredentialsTypically requires certification in caregiving or related fields, sometimes with supervisory trainingUsually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentSupervises direct support staff, manages programs, and coordinates services in community or facility settingsProvides direct care and assistance to individuals with disabilities in homes or community settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, government agencies, or healthcare providersResidential facilities, community agencies, or home-based care providers

The Program Manager Direct Support Professional typically oversees programs and staff, requiring additional certifications and supervisory skills, while the Direct Support Professional focuses on providing direct care to individuals. Both roles are essential in supporting individuals with disabilities but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Manager Direct Support Professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Manager Direct Support Professional, you need a background in human services or a related field, experience in staff supervision, and familiarity with regulations governing care for individuals with disabilities. Knowledge of case management software, incident reporting systems, and often certifications such as CPR/First Aid or state-specific credentials are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication skills make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure effective program delivery, regulatory compliance, and high-quality support for clients and teams.

How does a Program Manager Direct Support Professional typically collaborate with other team members to ensure high-quality care for clients?

A Program Manager Direct Support Professional works closely with direct support staff, healthcare providers, and families to coordinate individualized care plans for clients. They facilitate regular team meetings to discuss progress, address challenges, and make adjustments to support strategies. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as the Program Manager often acts as a bridge between staff, clients, and external agencies. This teamwork ensures that clients receive consistent, person-centered support tailored to their unique needs.

What is a Program Manager Direct Support Professional?

A Program Manager Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for overseeing and coordinating programs that support individuals with disabilities or special needs. They manage a team of direct support staff, ensure compliance with regulations, and work to implement individualized care plans. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life for clients by promoting independence, inclusion, and personal growth. Program Managers also handle administrative tasks, staff training, and communication with families or guardians. This role requires strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
What cities are hiring for Program Manager Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities with the most Program Manager Direct Support Professional job openings:
What states have the most Program Manager Direct Support Professional jobs? States with the most job openings for Program Manager Direct Support Professional jobs include:
Infographic showing various Program Manager Direct Support Professional job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,871 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professional

Limitless Possibilities, LLC

Fond Du Lac, WI โ€ข On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Direct support professionals are responsible for the direct supervision of adults with disabilities in various settings such as the home, community, and vocational sites. It is the responsibility of direct support professionals to see to the specific needs of each client served, provide and teach opportunities, provide options for informed choice, and follow guidelines according to clients' service and support plans. Direct support professionals report to program supervisors.
Qualifications:
  • Be at least 18 years of age (21 years of age for driving positions)
  • Possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Some experience in providing community supports to people with developmental disabilities
  • The ability to reason and problem solve
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Possess a valid driver license
  • Possess automobile insurance
  • Be willing to perform any reasonable request to meet the needs of the persons served
  • Ability to use computer applications such as a word processor, e-mail, etc. in a time-efficient manner
  • Capable of working with adults with developmental disabilities by communicating verbally to instruct, demonstrate, train, and work cooperatively
  • Stand, sit, bend, lift, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and move intermittently
  • Must frequently lift/move up to 25 pounds

Job Duties:
  • Household Management: Direct support professionals assist the individual with household management (e.g. meal preparation laundry, cleaning and decorating) and with transportation needs to maximize his or her skills, abilities and independence.
  • Facilitation of Services: Direct support professionals have knowledge sufficient to fulfill their roles related to individual service plan development, implementation, and review.
  • Health and Wellness: Direct support professionals promotes the health and wellness of all clients.
  • Organizational Participation: Direct support professionals are familiar with the organizational mission, vision and values.
  • Documentation: Direct support professionals are aware of the requirement for documentation in his or her organization and is able to manage these requirements efficiently.
  • Client Empowerment: Direct support professionals enhance the ability of the individual to lead a self-determining life by providing the support and information necessary to build self-esteem, and assertiveness and to make decisions.
  • Assessment: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about formal and informal assessment practices in order to respond to the needs, desires, and interest of the individuals.
  • Advocacy: Direct support professionals should be knowledgeable about the diverse challenges facing individuals (i.e. human rights/client rights).
  • Community and Service Networking: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about the formal and informal supports available in his or her community and are skilled in assisting the individual to identify and gain access to such supports.
  • Building and Maintaining Friendships and Relationships: Direct support professionals support the participant in the development of friendships and other relationships.
  • Communication: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about the range of effective communication strategies and skills necessary to establish a collaborative relationship with the individual.
  • Crisis Intervention: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about crisis prevention, intervention, and resolution techniques and should match such techniques to particular circumstances and individuals.
  • Professionalism: Direct support professionals pursue knowledge and information necessary to perform job duties.
  • Vocational, Educational, and Career Support: Direct support professionals are knowledgeable about the career and education related concerns of individuals.