Direct Support Professional

Salary : $40,414.40 - $58,468.80 Annually
Location : Woodward - 50276 - Boone County, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 27-00384
Agency: 400 Health & Human Services - State Operated Specialty Care
Opening Date: 09/11/2026
Closing Date: 10/11/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag: #LI-POST
Point of Contact: Simone Donovan, View email address on click.appcast.io


Job Description
Are you looking for a meaningful career where you can make a real difference every day? The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of State-Operated Specialty Care, is currently seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join the dedicated team at Woodward Resource Center (WRC) .

No specific education or experience is required - just compassion, dedication, and a desire to support individuals in living their best, most independent lives. We'll provide the training you need to be successful!


This is hands-on, active engagement work. As a DSP, you'll be physically present with individuals throughout their day, helping with personal care, daily routines, and using those moments to actively teach and reinforce skills that build toward each person's individual goals.


What We Offer
• Full-time positions with shift differentials for 2nd and 3rd shift
• Growth and advancement opportunities
• Supportive, team-focused environment
• Meaningful work helping individuals live more independently
• Outstanding benefits from day 1 - see below for more details

What You'll Do
• Support individuals with daily living and independence skills
• Promote person-centered goals through Individual Support Plans through daily routines, teaching and reinforcing skills
• Help individuals build and maintain skills like communication, taking care of themselves and coping with difficult moments
• Use de-escalation techniques to help individuals through moments of frustration or aggression
• Maintain a safe, respectful environment and follow established procedures
• Document services, progress and share updates with the team supporting each person

What We're Looking For
• Compassionate, patient, dependable and calm individuals , even in difficult moments
• Resilience, strong communication and teamwork skills
• Commitment to dignity, respect, and high-quality care
• Willingness to create a warm, home-like environment for every individual
• Ability to work overtime as needed - paid at time and a half!

Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position.

WRC provides a wide range of services, including ICF/IID residential care, supported community living, behavioral health, training, and more. Learn more about WRC:


Benefits of Joining WRC

Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage!
• Paid Time Off: Take time to recharge with paid time off, including vacation(96 hours/year to begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours/year), and paid holidays (9 days/year).
• Retirement Plans: Participate in retirement plans such as IPERS (employees contribute 6.29% and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC), Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to $75/month).
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses.
• Insurance Coverage: Benefit from life insurance and free long-term disability insurance for added peace of mind.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access resources and support through our Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges.
• Employee Discount Programs: Enjoy discounts on a variety of goods and services through our employee discount programs.

For additional information on benefits


to see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator.

Join us at WRC and be part of a team where your work truly matters. Apply now to start your journey towards a rewarding career with purpose!

Woodward Highlights

Woodward is a city of approximately 1,300 located in central Iowa. The High Trestle Trail begins here and boasts 25 miles of paved surface running through five towns and four counties in the heart of Iowa. The trail includes an iconic, 1/2-mile, 13-story high bridge across the Des Moines River valley, one of the largest trail bridges in the world. The Iowa Arboretum & Gardens is just a quick drive away offering more trails, scenic overlooks and other amazing natural features.


Woodward is about 30 minutes away Ames, home of Iowa State University. Des Moines, Iowa's capitol city, is also about the same distance away and home to Casey's Center (host site of NCAA Basketball and premier concerts) and Lauridsen Skatepark, the nation's largest skatepark. Additionally, Des Moines hosts one of the nation's finest State Fairs and is home to professional sports teams the Iowa Cubs, Iowa Wolves, Iowa Barnstormers and Iowa Wild. Check out these .

The State of Iowa is an EEO/AA Employer

HHS values those with "lived experience" and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and/or parents who were in the HHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired - Relay Iowa View phone number on click.appcast.io TDD).

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit

Minimum Qualification Requirements


No specific education or experience is required.

For additional information, please click on this .
Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyGain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!
01


Do you understand that the information provided on your application and resume must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your knowledge?


Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree
• No

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• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
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