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Direct Care Assistant information

See Wisconsin salary details

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$28

How much do direct care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care assistant in Wisconsin is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $25.00 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 Wisconsin?

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

Direct Care Assistant jobs near you

Resident Care Assistant - RCA

Eagle Crest Communities

Holmen, WI

$18.05 - $22.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Eagle Crest Communities: Resident Care Assistant (Holmen, WI)


Memory Care Resident Care Assistant

Part-Time and Full-Time Opportunities available: These positions enjoy every other holiday off:

  • 77.5 hours per 2 week period: shifts from 3:15p-11:15p
  • 29.5 hours per 2 week period: shifts from 3p-11p
  • Casual Call; various days and shifts


Memory Care Resident Care Assistant

Eagle Crest Communities is seeking a Resident Care Assistant to support the residents in our 12 memory care apartments in our Hearten House located in Holmen. Our Memory Care Units are designed to provide care and support to older adults who experience memory impairment. Here, we have a range of residents that are independent, to others who require mechanical lifts, assistance with medication administration, and other activities of daily living.

What You'll Do

  • Assist residents with personal cares, daily activities while helping them maintain as much independence and dignity as possible
  • Other responsibilities could include medication management, light housekeeping, and a variety of other tasks
  • Provide dressing, bathing and bathroom assistance
  • Transport residents to meals and activities, documentation of daily care, and a variety of other tasks.
  • Communicate and interact with residents, their families, and other departments to create an environment that focuses on resident safety and well-being.

What You'll Need

  • Previous direct care experience, preferred
  • Certified Nursing Assistant training and/or experience (any State), preferred
  • CBRF Certification, preferred

Our Wages

  • Our starting rate is between $18.05 and $22.25 + per hour, based on your experience and qualifications. Increases upon orientation completion. And regular wage reviews - we pay for high performance!
  • We also offer a $1.25/HR PM and $3.00/HR NOC shift differential as well as Weekend Differential and on-call incentives.

Qualifications for Higher Starting Pay

  • Previous direct care experience
  • Certified Nursing Assistant training and/or experience
  • CBRF Certification(s)

Our Benefits

  • Available at 50+ hours/pay period: Health & Dental Insurance, Health Reimbursement, Health Savings, and/or Flexible Spending Accounts, Life and AD&D Insurance, Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability.
  • Available at 20+ hours/pay period: Vision Insurance, Short Term Disability, Accident Insurance, Cancer & Critical Illness Insurance, Hospital & Intensive Care Insurance, Pet Insurance.
  • Available at 18+ hours/pay period: Tuition Investment Program.
  • Available to all age 18+: Employee Assistance Program, 401(k).

Pre-Employment Information

  • Background checks will be run after an offer has been made, and offers are contingent upon successfully passing a background check.
  • Communicable Disease Screening must also be completed if your position requires working within our communities.

About Eagle Crest

Eagle Crest Communities is the largest not-for-profit senior care provider in Western Wisconsin. With ten communities in the La Crosse, Holmen and Onalaska, WI area, we find success in providing superior service with great attention to ensuring the highest levels of satisfaction to every resident. Great people, great care!

Bethany Lutheran Homes Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer!

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