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State Dsp Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

DSP

Hapeville, GA · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with ... Pass State PCA Competency Test if diploma is unavailable. * The knowledge, skills and abilities to ...

DSP

Hapeville, GA

$10 - $12/hr

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with ... Pass State PCA CompetencyTest if diploma is unavailable. * The knowledge, skills and abilities to ...

DSP

Hapeville, GA · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with ... Pass State PCA Competency Test if diploma is unavailable. * The knowledge, skills and abilities to ...

D111-IDD Crisis-DSP Shift Lead

Macon, GA

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

DSP Shift Lead at Specialized Transitional Homes Company Overview: At River Edge Behavioral Health ... Must possess a valid state driver's license and have reliable transportation. * Must have knowledge ...

D111-IDD Crisis-DSP Shift Lead

Macon, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

DSP Shift Lead at Specialized Transitional Homes Company Overview: At River Edge Behavioral Health ... Must possess a valid state driver's license and have reliable transportation. * Must have knowledge ...

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State Dsp information

See Georgia salary details

$8

$13

$17

How much do state dsp jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for state dsp in Georgia is $13.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $14.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a State DSP?

State DSPs, or State Direct Support Professionals, are individuals who provide support and assistance to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities within state-run facilities or programs. Their responsibilities include helping clients with daily living activities, fostering independence, ensuring safety, and supporting participation in community or recreational activities. State DSPs play a vital role in advocating for their clients’ well-being and promoting their integration into society. They also assist with medication management, personal care, and implementing individualized support plans under the supervision of healthcare or social service professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a State DSP?

To thrive as a State Direct Support Professional (DSP), you need a high school diploma or equivalent, a solid understanding of developmental disabilities, and basic caregiving skills. Familiarity with documentation systems, medication administration, and first aid/CPR certification is often required. Patience, strong interpersonal communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for supporting clients’ independence and well-being. These skills ensure the safety, dignity, and personal growth of individuals with disabilities while maintaining compliance with state regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by State DSPs when coordinating services across multiple agencies?

State DSPs (Direct Support Professionals) often work closely with various state agencies and community organizations to ensure individuals receive comprehensive care. A common challenge in this role is effectively managing communication and collaboration across different service providers, which may have varying protocols and priorities. Navigating complex case loads, maintaining timely documentation, and advocating for clients’ needs while adhering to state regulations can also be demanding. Building strong relationships and staying organized are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring high-quality support for individuals.

What is the difference between State Dsp vs Direct Support Professional?

AspectState DspDirect Support Professional
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentState facilities, community homes, or client homesCommunity-based settings, group homes, or individual client homes
Employer & Industry UsageState government agencies, public health departmentsPrivate agencies, non-profits, government programs
Common Search & ComparisonState Dsp vs Direct Support Professional

Both roles involve supporting individuals with disabilities, but State Dsp positions are often within government-run facilities or programs, while Direct Support Professionals work across various private and community settings. The credentials and work environments are similar, but the employer types differ, influencing job responsibilities and career paths.

Is being a State Dsp a stressful job?

Being a State DSP (Direct Support Professional) can be stressful due to the responsibility of providing care and support to individuals with disabilities, often requiring patience and emotional resilience. The job involves managing challenging behaviors, adhering to safety protocols, and working in a demanding environment, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find the work rewarding and develop coping strategies to handle the pressures involved.

What are popular job titles related to State Dsp jobs in Georgia?

For State Dsp jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Georgia are hiring for State Dsp jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most State Dsp job openings:

Infographic showing various State Dsp job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,600 per year, or $13.8 per hour.

$10 - $12/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL
DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with individuals who have physical and/or intellectual disabilities with the aim of assisting the individual to become integrated into his/her community in the least restrictive environment. A DSP also acts as an advocate for the disabled individual, in communicating their needs, self-expression and goals.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE JOB
  • Ability to perform First Aid/CPR.
  • Ability to observe and assess the needs of individuals.
  • Ability to maintain information in a confidential manner.
  • Ability to speak clearly and express oneself effectively in English.
  • Ability to read and comprehend instructions written in English.
  • Ability to organize, prioritize and multi-task work assignments.
  • Ability to learn and apply positive methods to modify behavior.
  • Ability to facilitate groups and/ provide individual skill instruction.
  • Ability to write legibly in English in a clear, concise, and logical manner.
  • Ability to understand and relate to persons with intellectual disabilities.
  • Ability to apply the principles of "Everyday Lives "and Self Determination.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in field location assignments.
  • Ability to maintain professional and respectful interaction with individuals and co-workers.
  • Knowledge and the ability to utilize good listening skills & comprehend verbal instructions given in English.
  • Knowledge of acceptable social, work, and interpersonal behavior.
  • Knowledge of basic computer skills required.

DUTIES OF DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF include, but are not limited to:
  • Provides personal care and protective oversight and supervision.
  • Provide services, supports, care and treatment and/or supervision as required.
  • Participates in the development and implementation of each (ISP) Individual's Support Plan.
  • Provides supervision as determined in the (ISP) Individuals' Support Plans.
  • Adheres to Department of Human Resources Office of Regulatory Services, requirements.
  • Responsible for individual's work related personal and financial transactions.
  • Ensures that the facility or home is safe, comfortable, well maintained, and free from hazards.
  • Provides coverage in emergency situations.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Assesses and documents instructional needs initially and on an ongoing basis.
  • Ensures individuals' health, safety and welfare, enhances the quality of individuals' lives, and supports community inclusion.
  • Provides direct assistance to the participant in self-help, socialization, and adaptive skills training, retention and improvement.
  • Implements the behavioral support plans of participants to reduce inappropriate and/or maladaptive behaviors and to acquire alternative adaptive skills and behaviors.
  • Provides assistance and training on independent community living skills, such as personal hygiene, light housework, laundry, meal preparation, transportation, grocery shopping, using the telephone, and medication and money management.
  • Provides direct assistance in teaching such concepts as rule compliance, attendance, task completion, problem solving, endurance, work speed, work accuracy, increased attention span, motor skills, and safety to groups of participants.
  • Provides direct assistance in training appropriate social interaction skills required in the workplace to groups of participants.
  • Provides participant-specific assistance, such as assistance with personal care and self-administration of medications.
  • Implements the behavioral support plans of participants to reduce inappropriate and/or maladaptive behaviors and to acquire alternative adaptive skills and behaviors.
  • Participates in the implementing of all program plans designed to enhance the individual's social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and independent living skills.
  • Completes and updates all daily, weekly and monthly records, reports, logs, casework notes, administrative paperwork, fiscal reports, and medical records in an accurate, timely, and professional manner.
  • Collaborates and cooperates with involved agencies, family members, and other service providers; participates in meetings and provides relevant information.
  • Transports individuals in personal and/or company vehicle for community outings or scheduled appointments.
  • Provides support and assistance to individuals in arranging for medical care when responsible to do so and follows health care recommendations.
  • Utilizes community resources to promote community integration, independence, and interdependence.

COMPETENCY [Education, Credentials, and Experience]
  • High school diploma or General Education Development (GED).
  • Professional License if applicable.
  • Pass State PCA Competency Test if diploma is unavailable.
  • The knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the functions of this position.

EXPECTATIONS
  • Must be able to drive passenger vehicle if applicable.
  • Must have an annual Negative test results for TB Skin Test.
  • Must have the ability to obtain clearances as defined by regulations.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours to meet individual's and program's needs.
  • Must be able to travel to trainings/meetings upon request of program director.
  • Must have a valid driver's license, good driving record, and access to a reliable vehicle to attend trainings, meetings, and/or transport individual to appointments.
  • Must be able to accompany individuals into the community and provide support and assistance in interactions in the community while maintaining sensitivity to the rights and dignity of the individual.
  • Must have an annual (Physical) health examination with signed statement from a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant that you are free of communicable disease.