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Direct Support Professional (DSP) Certification Program

Cornerstone Special Care
Sterling, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 4/22/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/22/2026

DSP and CNA’s at Cornerstone work directly with individuals with severe developmental and complex medical needs. DSP/CNA’s help our residents realize their full potential by teaching new skills or supporting acquired skills in such areas as communication, sensory development, and mobility. DSP/CNA’s provide care in life’s essential activities such as bathing, dining, and personal hygiene. DSP/CNA’s offers emotional support. DSP and CNA’s are held to a high, nationally validated Code of Ethics and set of Core Competencies.


Full and Part Time Positions; Day and Evenings; Every other weekend


Requirements

  • Certification: Successful completion of an Illinois State approved training program as verified on Illinois Health Care Worker Registry. Cornerstone is an approved State provider of Direct Support Professional (DSP) certification, paid DSP training available upon hire.
  • Experience: No experience necessary; training available
  • Skills: Strong sense of empathy, ability to connect and relate to people of all abilities,
  • Characteristics: Patience and understanding, compassion, adaptability, reliability and attentiveness.
  • Background: Meets regulatory requirements including Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act and Department of Children & Family Services CANTS clearances.

Competitive Pay and Benefits:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Full benefits package for employees working 30 hours/week.
  • Pay on Demand - access up to 50% of your pay before payday.
  • 401(k) with a 4% company match.
  • Shift Differential
  • Recruitment and Retention Bonus Opportunities
  • Premium Pay
  • Attendance Bonus
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) with hourly accrual rate based on length of service.

Learning and Development: We invest in your development and provide the tools and training you need to have a fulfilling career.

  • On-line and in-person training to develop and support the skills needed to be successful in your chosen career at Cornerstone Special Care
  • Continuing Education Credits to support licensure or certification requirements.
  • State Approved Direct Support Professional (DSP) certification and recertification.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) - American Heart Association
  • Heart saver First Aid Training - American Heart Association
  • Career advancement opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or general education degree (GED). Meets state and federal requirements.


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: Successful completion of a Department approved Direct Support Person (DSP) program, or training and competency evaluation program, including passing of the certification exam. Persons enrolled in a DSP program must successfully complete the program no later than 120 days after the date of initial employment. CPR, First Aid, Driver's license per position requirements

Salary.com Estimation for Direct Support Professional (DSP) Certification Program in Sterling, IL
$33,712 to $37,081
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