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Direct Care Associate Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Hybrid Healthcare Associate

Miami, FL · On-site

$175K - $220K/yr

Join an elite team as a Healthcare Attorney architecting the regulatory future for the nation ... managing direct client relationships, and a clear appetite for practice development and business ...

SLR Search

Hybrid Healthcare Associate

Miami, FL · Hybrid

$175K - $220K/yr

Join an elite team as a Healthcare Attorney architecting the regulatory future for the nation ... managing direct client relationships, and a clear appetite for practice development and business ...

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Direct Care Associate information

What is a direct care associate?

Direct Care Associates are professionals who provide hands-on support and assistance to individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or other care needs in residential, home, or community settings. They help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management, while also offering companionship and emotional support. Direct Care Associates play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being, safety, and dignity of those they serve, often working under the supervision of healthcare or social service professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct care associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Care Associate, you need a solid understanding of personal care practices, basic healthcare knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers requiring certification such as CPR or First Aid. Familiarity with patient care documentation systems and assistive devices is typically necessary. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and reliability help you build trust and effectively support individuals with daily living tasks. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of those receiving care.

What are some common challenges direct care associates face when working with individuals with diverse needs?

Direct Care Associates often work with individuals who have a range of physical, emotional, or cognitive needs, which can present unique challenges. These may include managing unpredictable behaviors, adapting communication styles to suit each individual, and maintaining patience and empathy in stressful situations. Support from a multidisciplinary team and ongoing training are typically available to help navigate these challenges. Building strong relationships and understanding each person's preferences are key to providing effective care.

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

AspectDirect Care AssociatePersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes state-specific certificationsCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentHealthcare facilities, home care, assisted livingHome care, private residences, community settings
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, nursing homes, home health agenciesHome care agencies, private clients

Both Direct Care Associates and Personal Care Assistants provide essential support to individuals with health or personal needs. While their roles overlap in caregiving tasks and required certifications, Direct Care Associates often work in more formal healthcare settings, whereas Personal Care Assistants typically serve clients in private homes. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right career path or job search focus.

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Direct Care Associate jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Direct Care Associate job openings:

Direct Care Associate jobs near you

Direct Care / Youth Care Worker Professional

Children Having Opportunities in a Caring Environment Inc

Valrico, FL • On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Direct Care / Youth Care Worker
Residential At-Risk Group Home – Adolescent Males | Florida

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most
Are you passionate about helping youth overcome adversity and build a better future?
We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated individuals to join our team as Direct Care / Youth Care Workers in a licensed residential group home serving at-risk adolescent males. In this role, you will directly impact the lives of youth who have experienced trauma, instability, and loss—helping them build the skills needed for long-term success.
This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to be a mentor, role model, and agent of change.
Position Overview:
The Direct Care / Youth Care Worker provides continuous supervision, direct care, and therapeutic support in a structured residential setting. Staff serve as caregivers and surrogate parental figures, supporting youth in developing emotional regulation, life skills, and positive behaviors.
Using a trauma-informed care approach, you will help create a safe, stable, and nurturing environment where youth can heal, grow, and prepare for reunification or permanent placement.
Key Responsibilities
Direct Care & Supervision
  • Provide continuous supervision to ensure the safety, welfare, and security of all residents
  • Serve as a caregiver, mentor, and positive role model
  • Act as a surrogate parent, modeling appropriate behavior and decision-making
  • Build supportive relationships while maintaining professional boundaries
Daily Living Support & Life Skills
  • Guide youth through daily routines, including hygiene, chores, and responsibilities
  • Teach life skills such as cooking, cleaning, time management, and problem-solving
  • Prepare meals and snacks while engaging youth in skill-building activities
  • Assist with homework, academic enrichment, and e-learning
Therapeutic Environment & Engagement
  • Maintain a safe, clean, structured, and nurturing home environment
  • Plan and supervise therapeutic, recreational, and community-based activities
  • Support trauma-informed interventions and behavior management strategies
Transportation & Community Activities
  • Transport youth to school bus stops, appointments, and activities using agency vehicles
  • Provide supervision during community outings and medical visits
Behavioral Support & Crisis Intervention
  • Identify and report emotional, behavioral, or developmental concerns
  • Implement behavior modification techniques and individualized interventions
  • Utilize crisis de-escalation strategies to manage challenging situations safely
Medication Administration & Documentation
  • Administer and document medications per agency policy
  • Monitor for side effects and report concerns
  • Complete accurate and timely documentation, including daily logs and incident reports
  • Maintain compliance with all recordkeeping standards
Team Collaboration
  • Participate in individualized care planning and implementation
  • Provide feedback on youth progress, strengths, and needs
  • Attend team meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities
  • Support a culture of structure, consistency, and communication
Minimum Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a human services-related field preferred. In lieu of a degree, a High School Diploma or GED with relevant experience working with youth will be accepted.
  • 2+ years of experience in a residential or group home setting
Licensing & Requirements
  • Valid Florida Driver’s License with clean driving record
  • Must be insurable under agency commercial auto policy
  • Ability to operate a 7- or 12-passenger vehicle
  • Reliable transportation with proof of insurance
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain)
  • Ability to pass comprehensive background screenings, including:
    • DCF Level II / 7-point background check
    • Child Abuse Registry
    • Sexual Offender Registry
    • FBI and local law enforcement checks
Additional Requirements
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills
  • Ability to plan and coordinate recreational, social, and educational activities
  • Dependability, punctuality, and consistency are essential
  • Ability to understand and implement individualized care plans for each resident
Schedule Options
  • Full-Time: Evening Shift (3:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
  • Part-Time: Evenings & Weekends
  • Overnight / 3rd Shift: 11:00 PM – 9:00 AM
Compensation & Benefits
  • Pay: $17.50 – $21.25 per hour (DOE)
  • Full-time, non-exempt position
Benefits Include:
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & Vacation
  • Holiday Pay
  • Simple IRA (after 90 days)
  • Supplemental Insurance (Aflac)
  • Opportunities for advancement and professional growth
  • 401 K participation
Why Join Our Team
  • Meaningful, mission-driven work that changes lives
  • Supportive and team-oriented work environment
  • Hands-on experience in child welfare and behavioral health
  • Opportunities to grow within the organization
The Impact You’ll Make
Your consistency, structure, and care can help youth:
  • Build trust and emotional stability
  • Develop life skills and coping strategies
  • Improve behavior and decision-making
  • Successfully transition to family-based or permanent placements
Apply Today
If you are committed to making a difference and ready for a rewarding and challenging role, we encourage you to apply and become part of a team dedicated to changing lives.