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Direct Care Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Designated Coordinator

Minneapolis, MN

$20 - $27.25/hr

Associate degree in a field related to human services, and 2 years of full-time work experience providing direct care services or * Diploma in a field related to human services from an accredited ...

Designated Coordinator

Minneapolis, MN

$20 - $27.25/hr

Associate degree in a field related to human services, and 2 years of full-time work experience providing direct care services or * Diploma in a field related to human services from an accredited ...

IHS Designated Coordinator

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$23.50 - $24.78/hr

Associate degree in a field related to Human Services, Education, or Health and two years of full-time work experience providing Direct Care services to persons with disabilities or persons age 65 ...

IHS Designated Coordinator

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$23.50 - $24.78/hr

Associate degree in a field related to Human Services, Education, or Health and two years of full-time work experience providing Direct Care services to persons with disabilities or persons age 65 ...

Showing results 21-40

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 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 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 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 Associate jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Direct Care Associate job openings:

Win From Within 2026 - Mercy St Louis Hospital

Mercy

Anoka, MN • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Mercy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 208 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

605th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy!Position Details:Mercy Hospital St Louis Student Program: Win From Within Nursing

A program for Mercy STL Hospital Caregivers...

Mercy Hospital St Louis is proud to support the next generation of nurses through our Win From Within program - a unique opportunity for financial support, professional growth, and a smoother transition into practice after graduation.

Whether you're just beginning your nursing prerequisites or already enrolled in a nursing program, this initiative is designed to empower you from the classroom to the patient room.

🎓 In Partnership With These Schools:
  • St. Louis Community College
  • Jefferson College
  • Mineral Area College
  • Southeast College of Nursing
  • St. Charles Community College
  • Southwestern Illinois College
  • East Central College
  • Southwest Baptist University
  • Washington Practical School of Nursing (Four Rivers)
  • St Louis College of Health Careers
💰 Program Highlights & Benefits:
  • Up to $10,000/year in tuition support
  • Funding available for:
    • 1 year of prerequisites
    • 2 years of Nursing program
  • Covers:
    • Tuition
    • Books (including shipping & taxes)
    • Registration, lab & technology fees
    • Clinical scrubs and more
  • Helps ensure a smoother transition to professional practice post-graduation
  • Offers direct career pathway opportunities within Mercy
Eligibility Criteria:
  • Enrolled in nursing prerequisites oractively enrolled in a nursing program. *Must be a Mercy Hospital St Louis Caregiver* for 3 months in order to qualify!*
Not a caregiver yet?

Apply to one of our PCA roles today

Patient Care Associate - PCA - Critical Care Units

Patient Care Associate - PCA - Medical Surgical Units

💼 Work & Commitment Requirements:
  • Work a minimum of 16 hours per pay period (every 2 weeks) in a Patient Care Associate, Nurse Tech, or similar role (must be a hospital position)
  • Must sign a contract agreeing to work 1-3 years at a Mercy facility of your choice after graduation
    • Commitment length depends on the amount of financial support received
Spots are limited - don't wait to take this important step in your nursing journey!💬 Have Questions?Contact: Chrissa @ chrissa.borick@mercy.net or Faith @ Faith.vellia@mercy.netWhy Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.


What Mercy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Mercy logo

About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827