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Direct Care Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 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:

Resident Care Associate (Direct Care)

Commonwealth Senior Living at Kings Grant House

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

We are excited to share that we are hosting Open Interviews every Wednesday!

Join us for our upcoming event to explore the many new and exciting, in-demand careers with representatives from each department in one location.

When: Every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Location: 440 N Lynnhaven Road in Va Beach 

The Resident Care Associate (RCA) embodies a genuine commitment to assisting seniors, providing essential support within our community. This role entails aiding residents in Assisted Living and/or Memory Care with their daily activities, implementing individual care plans, documenting services provided, and fostering an environment where residents can maintain their dignity and quality of life. Through patience, empathy, and teamwork, the RCA contributes to enhancing the well-being of our seniors. The Resident Care Associate is a Culture Ambassador who will model the core values of the company, leading by example, and ensure all team members exemplify the core values of the company. 

• We Care About People

• We Do the Right Thing

• We are Passionate, Have Fun, and Celebrate Success

• We Speak Up! It’s Our Responsibility

• We Take Ownership and Add Value

• We are Respectful

Position Details:

  • Full-Time and Part-Time, 11pm to 7am; Every other weekend is required.

Qualifications 

• Compassionate disposition and a desire to serve; prior experience not required.

• Ability to fulfill both the physical and emotional needs of residents.

• Direct-Care or other state specific certification required, or willingness to obtain.

• CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain according to company policy.

• Upholds resident confidentiality.

• Flexible availability, including weekends, to ensure resident care and services.

• Demonstrates sincere compassion and genuine concern for the well-being of seniors and their families.

• Proficient in using basic office equipment, including personal computers, to maintain high job performance.

• Aligns with Commonwealth Senior Living's mission of improving the lives of seniors, their families, and each other.

Primary Responsibilities

• Directly assist residents with daily tasks, maintaining communication with the Resident Care Director regarding care provision and resident condition changes.

• Aid residents with mobility, utilizing proper techniques and equipment to prevent accidents.

• Make routine resident care rounds to ensure the needs of each resident are being met in accordance with their individualized care plan.

• Assist with lifts, moves, and transport, using proper body mechanics or lifting devices for accident prevention.

• Performs care that maintains each resident’s skin integrity to prevent pressure ulcers, skin tears and other damage by changing incontinent residents.

• Document daily care activities in accordance with company policy and regulatory standards.

• Report any resident issues or concerns promptly to the appropriate supervisor.

• Respond promptly and courteously to inquiries from residents, visitors, and staff, adhering to established policies.

• Familiarize oneself with residents' individualized care plans and provide support accordingly.

• Contribute insights to the care planning process by sharing observations of residents' needs and preferences.

• Interact respectfully and effectively with residents, families, visitors, peers, and supervisors to foster a homelike environment.

• Offer physical, emotional, and psychosocial support to residents and their families.

• Adhere to residents' rights, promptly reporting any incidents or evidence of abuse or rights violations.

• Implement safety and infection control procedures, including proper hand hygiene and care techniques to prevent skin damage.

• Maintain a safe working environment through accident prevention and adherence to safety protocols.

• Attend all required training sessions, in-service programs, and staff meetings.

• Maintain regular community with the Resident Care Director.

• Fulfill any other duties as assigned. 

Physical/Sensory Requirements

The RCA must be capable of lifting, stooping, carrying, turning, and assisting high-risk residents, as well as operating medication carts. They must also be willing and able to work a flexible schedule, maintaining continuous movement throughout work hours. The ability to lift and/or carry 50 to 75 pounds is necessary. This position carries a medium risk of exposure to COVID-19 due to direct care provision to potentially positive resident.