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Direct Care Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of North Dakota

Direct Care Associate

Bismarck, ND · On-site

$3.59K/mo

We are looking for a Direct Care Associate to join the North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP) Medical Department. If you are excited by challenges, provide the best possible care to our residents ...

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How much do direct care associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care associate in the United States is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Direct Care Associates?

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 cities are hiring for Direct Care Associate jobs? Cities with the most Direct Care Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Care jobs? The most popular types of Direct Care jobs are:
What states have the most Direct Care Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Care Associate jobs include:
Direct Care Associate jobs near you
Direct Care Associate

Direct Care Associate

State of North Dakota

Bismarck, ND • On-site

$3.59K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

State Of North Dakota rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 50 rated states

Job description

WE WANT YOU TO JOIN OUR TEAM!
We are looking for a Direct Care Associate to join the North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP) Medical Department. If you are excited by challenges, provide the best possible care to our residents, want to join a high-performing and constantly evolving agency, this opportunity is for you! This position offers a fantasticbenefits package to include, state-paid family health insurance (no monthly premium to you), retirement, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave that begin to accrue on day one, and more.For more information, go to: https://www.omb.nd.gov/team-nd-careers/team-nd-benefits
Join our diverse team of professionals where we share a collective vision for healthy and productive neighbors, a safe North Dakota.
Our mission:Transforming lives, influencing change, strengthening community.
Summary of Work
You will provide direct care, assistance, and/or training to individuals in special populations. Work is performed under general supervision and will involve providing for the care and welfare of individuals in special populations including those with mental illness or developmental disabilities, and/or others needing special care or services.
Minimum Qualifications
Requires a high school diploma or GED and two years of work experience providing direct care to special populations. Applicable education, training, or medical certification may be substituted for one year of the work experience requirement.
CNA and CMA certification required.
About Team ND
"Far and away the best prize life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." - Theodore Roosevelt
More than 7,500 talented, hard-working people across sixty-three agencies have come together as Team North Dakota. At Team ND, we are driven to succeed through gratitude, humility, curiosity and courage. Our purpose is to empower people, improve lives, and inspire success. Join us in being legendary.
Total Rewards: The State of North Dakota is committed to providing team memberswith a strong and competitive rewards package that support you, your health and your family.
Considering a new position on Team ND? How does your current position stack up? Use our Total Rewards Calculator to estimate.
Application Procedures
All applications for open DOCR positions must be made via the Careers site. Application materials must be received by 11:59 PM on the closing date listed above. All potential applicants must attach and/or upload the following documents:
  • Resume
  • Transcripts upon pre-hire process
Application materials must clearly explain how experience and education are related to the minimum qualifications and job duties.
Contact Lexi Archambault at amarchambaultt@nd.gov or TTY 800-366-6888 for more information or assistance in the application or interview process.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.
As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

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