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Direct Care Professional Jobs in Rutherfordton, NC

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Direct Care Professional information

See Rutherfordton, NC salary details

$8

$14

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How much do direct care professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care professional in Rutherfordton, NC is $14.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $15.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct care professional?

A direct care professional, or a personal care assistant, works with patients who have chronic illnesses or long-term disabilities. In this role, your duties include running errands, providing transportation, and performing basic home health care for clients. You also help with daily activities, such as dress and undressing, cooking and cleaning, and bathing. The main career qualifications for this job are a high school diploma and background as a care worker. Sometimes a bachelor’s degree in a field like psychology is required. You need strong communication and organizational skills as well as compassion and empathy.

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

To excel as a Direct Care Professional, you need a solid understanding of basic caregiving practices, personal care assistance, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant training or certifications such as CPR and First Aid. Familiarity with care documentation systems and assistive devices is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication skills help build trust and effectively support clients with diverse needs. These competencies are vital for ensuring client well-being, promoting dignity, and maintaining a safe and supportive care environment.

What are some common challenges faced by direct care professionals, and how can they be managed effectively?

Direct Care Professionals often encounter challenges such as managing clients’ behavioral issues, maintaining clear communication with team members and families, and adapting to varying care needs. These challenges can be managed by practicing patience, utilizing de-escalation techniques, participating in ongoing training, and collaborating closely with supervisors and colleagues. Developing strong documentation habits and self-care routines also help maintain both quality of care and personal well-being.

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

AspectDirect Care ProfessionalPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes state-specific certificationsOften requires similar certifications like CPR and First Aid
Work EnvironmentAssists clients in homes, facilities, or community settingsPrimarily in clients' homes or assisted living facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by healthcare agencies, home care companies, and community organizationsCommonly employed by home care agencies and private clients

Both roles involve providing personal care and support to individuals with disabilities or health needs. While the titles are often used interchangeably, 'Direct Care Professional' is a broader term that may include a variety of caregiving tasks, whereas 'Personal Care Assistant' typically emphasizes assisting with daily living activities in home settings.

What job categories do people searching Direct Care Professional jobs in Rutherfordton, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Care Professional jobs in Rutherfordton, NC are:

What cities near Rutherfordton, NC are hiring for Direct Care Professional jobs?

Cities near Rutherfordton, NC with the most Direct Care Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Care Professional job openings in Rutherfordton, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,517 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - 3rd Shift | Rotating Weekend | Inman,SC

Charles Lea Center

Spartanburg, SC • On-site

$17.51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Make a Difference Every Day - Join the Charles Lea Center as a Direct Support Professional


Do you have a heart for helping others and a passion for making a meaningful impact? At the Charles Lea Center in Spartanburg, SC, we're looking for compassionate, energetic individuals to join our team as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)-where every day is an opportunity to support people with disabilities in living full, independent lives.


WhatWe Offer:

  • Competitive Pay: $17.51/hour + Shift differential for weekday and weekend hours
  • Sign-On Bonus: $1,500 (paid in two installments)
  • Consistent schedule: 3rd shift with rotating weekends
  • Paid training and growth opportunities


Outstanding Benefits:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Sick Leave
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Free onsite wellness clinic


Overnight Shift Availability Required

  • Monday-Friday: 11:00 PM - 9:00 AM
  • Every Other Weekend (Saturday & Sunday): 8:00 PM/9:00 PM - 8:00 AM/9:00 AM
  • Flexibility to work overnight and weekend hours is essential.


Aboutthe Role:

As a DSP, you'll work in a residential setting supporting individuals with disabilities in their daily lives. Your responsibilities may include:

  • Assist with daily living skills, grooming, meals, personal care, and medication administration.
  • Support individuals in activities, community outings, and skill-building.
  • Promoting independence and dignity in every interaction
  • Document daily notes, training steps, and updates in Therap.
  • Communicate important information to supervisors and team members.
  • Follow safety, infection control, and agency policies.
  • Maintain professionalism, teamwork, and positive interactions.


What You'll Need:

  • Minimum age: 18
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 2-4 years of relevant experience preferred (DSP, CNA, PCA, RBT, Med Tech, Caregiver)
  • Valid driver's license and Social Security number
  • Basic computer and documentation skills
  • Ability to pass required background and reference checks


Work Location Flexibility: While this position is assigned to our Inman location, All Direct Support Professionals may be required to work at other Charles Lea Center sites as needed based on staffing and operational needs.


Physical Requirements: This role involves regular standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and hands-on support. Reasonable accommodations are available.


Ready to Apply?

If you're ready to make a difference and grow in a meaningful career, we'd love to meet you! Fill out our quick, mobile-friendly application today and take the first step toward joining a team that's changing lives.


Charles Lea Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application process.