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Direct Care Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

NAFI Connecticut

Direct Care Staff

Smithfield, RI · On-site

$20/hr

As a Direct Care Staff, you will oversee resident activities within the living environment ... Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care * Assist with daily living ...

Prime Healthcare

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Learn more at www.landmarkmedical.org. 24hrs/ week 10:45p- 7:15a The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the direction of the licensed nurse. Assists ...

Prime Healthcare

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Learn more at www.landmarkmedical.org. 32hrs/week 10:45am - 7:15pm The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the direction of the licensed nurse.

Prime Healthcare

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Learn more at www.landmarkmedical.org. 24hrs/week 2:45 - 11:15pm The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the direction of the licensed nurse. Assists ...

Prime Healthcare

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Learn more at www.landmarkmedical.org. 32hrs/ week 2:45p- 11:15p The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the direction of the licensed nurse. Assists ...

Prime Healthcare

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

Landmark Medical Center

Patient Care Assistant

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... The Patient Care Assistant assists, supports, and provides direct care to patients under the ... Performs clerical functions including initiating, directing and receiving telephone calls ...

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All JobsDirect Care JobsDirect Care Assistant JobsDirect Care Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

Direct Care Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$12

$20

$27

How much do direct care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care assistant in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Direct Care jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Direct Care Assistant jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Direct Care Assistant job openings:

Direct Care Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Care Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,950 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Direct Care Staff

NAFI Connecticut

Smithfield, RI • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

NAFI Connecticut provides programs, consultation, and support services in a variety of settings across Connecticut, New York and Rhode Island. We work with adults, children, and families to increase communication and social skills, improve relationships, increase circles of support, and provide therapeutic services based on best-practice research. We believe that people can change, and we work to empower each individual in their own care.
NAFI Rhode Island is exploring candidates to join our team of professionals as a Direct Care Staff to join our Adult Residential Program in Smithfield, RI. This program offers support and treatment to six adult male residents facing mental health and/or behavioral challenges. As a Direct Care Staff, you will oversee resident activities within the living environment, actively engage with residents, fosters interaction, and serves as a positive role model and supportive adult figure.
Responsibilities Include:
  • Provide supervision and support to residents within the living environment
  • Foster a positive and therapeutic rapport with residents
  • Learn and implement individualized behavior support plans and interventions
  • Monitor behavior changes and document observations
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care
  • Assist with daily living activities and skill development
  • Maintain a safe and structured living environment • Participate in team meetings and training sessions as required

Our Exceptional Benefits:
  • Generous paid time off
  • 3-6 weeks' vacation, 7 sick days and 11 paid holidays each year

Employee Health and Wellness:
  • Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, prescription and vision coverage (Reimbursements for fitness, weight loss, holistic health programs)
  • No cost employee assistance program
  • Voluntary employee focused wellness programs

Retirement and financial Planning:
  • Company matching 403b and no cost retirement consulting
  • Company paid for life Insurance and long-term disability
  • Public service loan forgiveness
  • Insurance including accident, hospital indemnity, supplemental Life
  • Pet Insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement: Includes licensure fees, professional memberships

...and much more!
Desired Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma
  • 1 year experience in Residential Field
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
  • Valid driver's license required

Hourly Rate: $20.00 per hour
Inclusivity and Non-Discrimination Statement:
NAFI Connecticut, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, disability, or any other federal, state or local protected class. Inclusivity and removing barriers are important to us. We are passionate about instilling a sense of belonging, celebrating diverse perspectives, and offering equal opportunities for employees to contribute and grow. We encourage members of underrepresented or marginalized communities and all those that share in these beliefs to apply.
E-Verify Employer / Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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