1

Direct Care Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Patient Care Assistant

Newport, VA · On-site

$16.80 - $21.83/hr

... directed by the RN/LPN to include accurately completing all required documentation. * Ensures ... Program Graduate, Medical Assistant/Certified Nurse Aide/EMT-B (Required) or * Program Graduate ...

DSP

Sterling, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Provide direct care and support to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities * Assist clients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal hygiene, grooming, dressing ...

Be Seen First

Previous experience as a caregiver, Direct Support Professional, Personal Care Assistant, Certified Nursing Assistant, or in a related healthcare or human services role is preferred. * Ability to ...

Be Seen First

Previous experience as a caregiver, Direct Support Professional, Personal Care Assistant, Certified Nursing Assistant, or in a related healthcare or human services role is preferred. * Ability to ...

Showing results 41-60

Direct Care Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$20

$27

How much do direct care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care assistant in Virginia is $20.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $24.57 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Direct Care Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,469 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Personal Care Assistant (PCA)

Blue Ridge Care

Winchester, VA • On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Personal Care Assistant - Why Join Us?

With the mission of “Delivering extraordinary care to improve life’s journey,” Blue Ridge Care is dedicated to providing the highest-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive physical, emotional, and spiritual care for aging and seriously ill members of our community, their families, and those affected by grief.
A part of the Blue Ridge Care organization, Blue Ridge Independence at Home is a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Our interdisciplinary team blends expertise, compassion, and dedication to ensure that each individual receives the preventative, primary, acute, and long-term health and personal care services they need. From clinicians to therapists, personal care aides to care coordinators, every member of our team plays a crucial role in delivering unparalleled care. Together, we prioritize the health, happiness, and independence of those we serve.

Personal Care Assistant - About the Role

The Personal Care Assistant (PCA) supports participants of Blue Ridge Independence at Home, by providing personal care and assistance in the Day Center. The PCA helps ensure participants’ safety, comfort, and dignity while assisting with daily living needs and supporting center activities. This role requires compassion, attention to detail, and adherence to all organizational, state, and federal standards of care.


Personal Care Assistant - Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Provide personal care assistance in the Day Center setting according to participant care plans, including support with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as grooming, dressing, toileting, ambulation, and feeding as needed.

  • Assist participants during arrival and departure, ensuring safe transfers to and from vehicles and their homes.

  • Support Transportation staff with participant care needs during transit and at medical appointments.

  • Monitor and report changes in participants’ condition, behavior, or family situation to the PACE clinical staff promptly.

  • Assist with group and individual Day Center activities during downtime, promoting engagement, socialization, and overall well-being.

  • Adhere to infection control protocols, including universal precautions and the proper use of PPE.

  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and organizational guidelines for participant care.

  • Complete documentation accurately and in a timely manner; perform additional duties as assigned by the Center Manager.


Personal Care Assistant - Qualifications and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

  • Current Personal Care Aide (PCA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification preferred.

  • A minimum of one-year experience in working with the frail or elderly population

  • Must have medical clearance for communicable diseases and up-to-date immunizations before having direct participant contact.

  • Ability to safely assist participants with mobility and transfers.

  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to foster trust, respect, and compassionate care.

  • Must be dependable, flexible, and able to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary care team.


Why You'll Love Working Here

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Retirement Plan with Company Match

  • Generous Paid Time Off

  • Employee Thrift Shop Discount

  • A mission-driven culture where your contributions matter every day.

Bring your skills, compassion, and dedication to a team that truly makes a difference. Apply today to help us support the health, happiness, and independence of those we serve.