Direct Support Professional Job Description Template

Tsiala Jobava

Last updated on April 4, 2025 | 6 min read

Job Description Template

General overview of the role

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is vital in providing compassionate, hands-on support to individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health needs, or physical challenges. This position requires a deep understanding of person-centered care, patience, and the ability to foster independence and dignity in daily living. DSPs work closely with clients, families, and care teams to ensure individuals can thrive in safe, supportive environments—home, community settings, or residential facilities. Success in this role demands empathy, strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to empowering others through respectful, individualized care.

Typical duties and responsibilities

• Provide direct care and daily living assistance to individuals with developmental disabilities, physical challenges, or mental health needs.
• Support clients in achieving greater independence through life skills coaching, community integration, and personalized goal planning.
• Assist with personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication administration, and mobility as needed.
• Monitor and document client behavior, progress, and incidents accurately and in compliance with care plans and regulatory guidelines.
• Foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment that upholds the dignity and preferences of each individual served.
• Communicate effectively with family members, case managers, and healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care.
• Respond calmly and appropriately to emergencies or behavioral incidents, following established safety protocols.
• Promote community participation by accompanying individuals to social, recreational, or employment-related activities.

Required skills and experience

• A minimum of 1–2 years of experience in direct care, human services, or a related support role.
• Compassionate, patient, and respectful approach to working with individuals with diverse abilities and support needs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with clients, families, and team members.
• Knowledge of personal care practices, behavior management, and safety procedures.
• Ability to follow individualized care plans and adapt to changing client needs.
• Reliable, responsible, and capable of working independently or as part of a team.
• Basic documentation skills for recording observations, incident reports, and daily logs.
• Physical ability to assist with lifting, mobility support, and other hands-on care tasks.

Nice to have/preferred skills and experience

• Certification in CPR, First Aid, or CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) training.
• Experience working with individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, or mental health conditions.
• Familiarity with person-centered planning and trauma-informed care practices.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to transport clients as needed.
• Understanding of local health regulations, safeguarding practices, and reporting procedures.

Direct support professional salary

Salaries for Direct Support Professionals tend to vary based on region, experience level, and employer type, with compensation reflecting the essential nature of the role in supporting individuals with disabilities and other care needs. Here’s the most recent data from platforms like Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, Payscale, etc.:

• Entry-level DSPs typically earn between $28000 – $35000 annually in the US and €22000 – €28000 in Europe, depending on the country and local labor market.
• Mid-level professionals with a few years of experience and specialized training can expect salaries around $35000 – $42000 in the US and €28000 – €35000 in Europe.
• Senior DSPs or those in supervisory or specialized roles (e.g. behavioral support, medication administration) may earn $42000 – $50000+ in the US and €35000 – €45000+ in Europe, particularly in high-demand areas or private care settings.

What we offer

• Extensive health and wellness coverage.
• Work-from-home options and flexible hours.
• Paid time off for vacations, holidays, and sick leave.

Here are a few more benefits that, according to Forbes, are valued by employees:

• Retirement savings plans with employer matching, such as 401(k) plans, are significant to employees.
• Early leave on Fridays.
• 4-day work week.
• Private dental insurance.

About us

We recommend including general information about the company, such as its mission, values, and industry focus. For instance, you could say:

“DevsData LLC is an IT recruitment agency that connects top tech talent with leading companies to drive innovation and success. Their diverse team of US specialists brings unique viewpoints and cultural insights, boosting their capacity to meet client demands and build inclusive work cultures. Over the past 8 years, DevsData LLC has successfully completed more than 80 projects for startups and corporate clients in the US and Europe.”

Explore sample resumes

Explore these effective resume examples to guide your focus and priorities during the candidate review:

• Direct Support Professional Resume Sample
• Customer Support Specialist Resume Sample

Contact DevsData LLC

If you’re looking to hire a qualified Direct Support Professional, reach out to DevsData LLC at general@devsdata.com or visit www.devsdata.com. The company’s recruitment process is thorough and efficient, utilizing a vast database of over 65000 professionals.

They are renowned for their rigorous 90-minute interviews to assess candidates’ technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, DevsData LLC holds a government-approved recruitment license, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.