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Direct Care Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

DCW -Direct Care Worker

New Hope, MN · On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

DCW -Direct Care Worker ID: 1063 Department: Home Care Job Category: Home Care City - Location ... New Hope Description HHAs, CNAs COMPASSIONATE PATIENT CAREGIVERS WITH NEEDED IMMEDIATELY. Trimed ...

Direct Care Staff

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Direct Care $16 DSP Alexandria (6hrs) Every other Saturday and Sunday 4pm - 10pm Must have valid ... Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ...

Direct Care $20 DSP Baxter (35) Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Every other Saturday and ... Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ...

Direct Care Staff

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Direct Care $18.97 DSP Alexandria (35hrs) Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Every other ... Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ...

Direct Care Staff

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Direct Care $18.33 DSP Alexandria (24) Thursday, Friday, and Every other Saturday and Sunday 8am ... Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ...

Direct Care Staff

Baxter, MN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Direct Care $20 DSP Baxter (35) Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Every other Saturday and ... Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ...

Direct Care Staff

Starbuck, MN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Direct Care $18.86 DSP Starbuck Erickson (28) Days Tuesday, Wednesday, 10am - 4pm, Every other ... Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ...

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Showing results 1-20

Direct Care Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$20

$27

How much do direct care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care assistant in Minnesota is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct care assistant?

Direct Care Assistants are professionals who provide essential support and care to individuals who may have physical, mental, or developmental disabilities. They assist clients with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication reminders. Direct Care Assistants often work in settings like group homes, assisted living facilities, or private residences, helping clients maintain their independence and quality of life. They also monitor clients’ well-being and may report any changes or concerns to healthcare professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct care assistant?

To thrive as a Direct Care Assistant, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic healthcare knowledge, and often completion of a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program. Familiarity with patient care documentation systems, mobility aids, and basic first aid is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication help build trust and rapport with clients. These skills are crucial to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of individuals receiving direct care.

What are some common challenges faced by direct care assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Direct Care Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing clients with diverse needs, handling emotionally demanding situations, and maintaining clear communication with healthcare teams. To manage these effectively, it's important to build strong rapport with clients, remain patient and adaptable, and seek guidance from supervisors or colleagues when needed. Regular training and self-care practices can also help Direct Care Assistants stay resilient and provide high-quality support.

What is the difference between Direct Care Assistant vs Personal Care Aide?

AspectDirect Care AssistantPersonal Care Aide
CertificationsMay require CPR, First Aid, or state-specific certificationsOften requires similar certifications, depending on state
Work EnvironmentAssists clients in homes, facilities, or community settingsProvides personal care mainly in home or facility settings
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, home care agencies, assisted livingHome health agencies, nursing homes, private residences

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology used by employers and regions, with 'Direct Care Assistant' often emphasizing a broader scope of support, while 'Personal Care Aide' focuses more on personal and daily living assistance.

What do you need to be a direct care assistant?

To become a direct care assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving skills, and sometimes certification in first aid or CPR. Some employers may require background checks and training specific to the care setting, such as patient handling or medication administration.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Care jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Direct Care jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Direct Care Assistant jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Direct Care Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Care Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,954 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Direct Care Assistant (16-17 years old)

ACR Homes

Roseville, MN • On-site

$17.25 - $19.25/hr

Part-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


ACR Homes rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

90th of 247 rated social care providers


Job description

At this time we are not accepting applications for DCAs (16-17 year olds). We welcome you to check back in August during our Fall hiring push to see if openings may be available at that time.
Direct Care Assistants are employees age 16 and 17 years old who do work similar to the Direct Care Professionals, but with some work restrictions required by law. Restrictions include no overnight work between the hours of 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., no driving while on duty, and other limitations relating to medical equipment and treatments. Optional medication administration training, with approval, after completion of baseline ACR training and within approximately 6 months. Direct Care Assistants assist ACR residents with daily living including personal and health care needs, meals, and recreational and leisure activities.
Paid training is provided, no experience necessary.
Employment Information:
:::NEW:::Rate of Pay 12/29/24:
$14.50-$16.50/hour for day and evening shifts--dependent on placement location's Rate Exception Differential, if applicable (non-med passer)
$16.75-$18.75/hour for weekend shifts --dependent on placement location's Rate Exception Differential, if applicable (non-med passer)
With approval, after approx. 6 months of working at ACR, 16-17 year old staff could get "med passer" training and receive the following increase once completed--
$17.25-$19.25/hour for weekend shifts --dependent on placement location's Rate Exception Differential, if applicable (med passer)
$15.00-$17.00/hour for day and evening shifts--dependent on placement location's Rate Exception Differential, if applicable (med passer)
Training Wage is $12.50/hour
Employment Type:
Part-time
Location:
Suburban Twin Cities
Benefits Information
Part-time employees under the age of 18 are eligible for the following benefits:
  • ESST
  • MN Paid Leave

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS INCLUDE:
  • Interact with residents
  • Support resident health and well-being
  • Carry out safety, meal preparation and cleaning procedures
  • Seek and follow the advice and directions of supervisors
  • Work effectively with coworkers
  • Uphold ACR's Core Values
  • Participate in training and development
  • Present a positive attitude and professionalism
  • Adhere to scheduling policies
  • Be on-call via a cell phone when requested to do so
  • Adhere to company policies and procedures
  • Accept other duties as assigned by a superior
  • Report illegal activity

REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE:
  • You must be at least 16 years old
  • You must be able and willing to provide care for both male and female clients
  • You must be able to do some lifting
  • You must be able to work independently and you must have interpersonal skills including empathy, responsibility, self-control, good judgment, and overall adjustment
  • You must be able to see, hear, speak, interact, and write in English sufficiently to perform the essential functions of the position
  • Part-time DCA employees must work at least 8 shifts per month
  • Full-time employees must work at least 38 hours per week

This is intended as a summary; additional functions and requirements are stated in the full job description below
ACR Homes is an EEO/AA Employer

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