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Direct Care Associate Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

A phlebotomy training program. 3. At least 2 years of work experience as a patient care associate / tech (must be inpatient setting) 4. With six (6) months direct patient care experience, preferred.

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Direct Care Associate information

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$13

$24

$63

How much do direct care associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care associate in Detroit, MI is $24.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Direct Care jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Direct Care Associate jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Direct Care Associate job openings:

Oncology Care Associate II - Hematology/Bone Marrow Transplant Clinic

McLaren Health Care Corporation

Detroit, MI • On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


McLaren Health Care rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 221 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

531st of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Department: Hematology/Bone Marrow Transplant
Daily Work Times: 7:00am-3:30pm
Shift: Days
Scheduled Bi-Weekly Hours: 80
Benefits:
• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
Position Summary:
The Oncology Care Associate II is a member of the patient care delivery team with primary responsibilities for technical, multi-skilled direct and indirect patient care activities. The Oncology Care Associate II work under the supervision of a Registered Nurse who delegate's tasks based upon both patient and unit needs. The Oncology Care Associate II will report all deviations from expected patient parameters to the Registered Nurse. The Oncology Care Associate II position necessitates significant contact with health care providers, patients, and families, thus warranting a high degree of interpersonal and customer service skills that promote a healing environment. The OCA aids the healthcare team in the attainment of desired patient outcomes throughout the continuum of care.
Responsibilities:
  1. Collaborates and cooperates in establishing a healing environment in which the patient, family and healthcare team focus on the aspects of care, which have been mutually determined to be most important.
  2. Provides physical support for patients with daily activities and personal hygiene, including bathing, showering, feeding, dressing, getting out of bed, using the toilet, walking, standing or exercising.
  3. Performs general clerical duties which may include, but are not limited to, answering telephones and call lights promptly using scripted greeting, greeting patients and visitors, maintaining departmental files, paging professional staff, requesting prior medical records, ordering equipment and maintaining inventory of supplies.
  4. Ensures compliance with all health care regulations, including HIPAA and OSHA
    Maintains safe and clean working environment and protects patients and employees by adhering to infection-control, hazardous waste and other policies and protocols.
  5. Performs other related job duties as requested.

Required:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Graduation from a school of practical nursing, a Certified Nurse Assistant Program, a Medical Assistant Program, or equivalent training
  • Current BLS or obtain BLS during clinical orientation per clinical policy Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Requirement.

Preferred:
  • Previous hospital experience

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