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Direct Care Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

If so, the BCBA Trainee position is for you! The starting pay for this role is $52,000 annually ... Provide direct care to children diagnosed with ASD. * Assist clients with increasing independence ...

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Direct Care Trainee information

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$13

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$36

How much do direct care trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Care Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Care Trainee, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic caregiving skills, and a willingness to learn about client support and safety procedures. Familiarity with healthcare documentation systems and training in CPR or first aid is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and reliability help you build trust and provide compassionate support to clients. These skills are essential for ensuring the well-being of clients and maintaining a safe, supportive environment.

What are some common challenges new Direct Care Trainees face during their first few months on the job?

New Direct Care Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to the emotional demands of supporting individuals with diverse needs and learning to manage unpredictable situations calmly and effectively. Adjusting to shift work and understanding detailed care protocols can also take time. However, ongoing supervision, mentorship from experienced staff, and regular training sessions help trainees build confidence and competence as they progress in the role.

What are Direct Care Trainees?

Direct Care Trainees are entry-level staff members who provide support and assistance to individuals with physical, developmental, or mental disabilities, often in residential or healthcare settings. They receive on-the-job training to help clients with daily living activities, personal care, and social or recreational activities. Direct Care Trainees work under the supervision of experienced professionals and play a vital role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and quality of life for those in their care.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Direct Care Trainee typically does not earn $10,000 a month without additional experience or certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree are rare and often involve entrepreneurship, sales, real estate, or specialized trades where skills and performance are key. Most healthcare or caregiving roles require relevant training or certifications and do not typically offer such high salaries without significant experience or advancement.

What is the difference between Direct Care Trainee vs Direct Care Worker?

AspectDirect Care TraineeDirect Care Worker
CredentialsMay require basic certifications or training programsOften requires certification or licensing depending on state
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, supervised environmentsClient homes, healthcare facilities, assisted living
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level positionsFull-time or part-time caregiving roles in healthcare

In summary, a Direct Care Trainee is typically in a training or preparatory phase, gaining skills before becoming a full Direct Care Worker, who provides direct assistance to clients in various care settings.

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 Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Care Trainee jobs include:

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted yesterday


Job description

The Lead Direct Support Professional oversees and directs Direct Support Professionals and Trainees to ensure quality support for individuals with Intellectual Disabilities in the community. This role manages assigned sites, ensuring smooth operations, and acts as a positive role model while performing both direct care and administrative duties. The Lead Direct Support Professional also maintains confidentiality standards as per HIPAA and federal regulations.

This position will work with 1:1 with an individual with severe IDD and Autism. The Lead Direct Support Professional should be skilled in working with difficult people. Since this is a Lead position it also requires administrative tasks including scheduling for the home, client paperwork, and oversight of regulatory compliance, attending ISP meetings, etc. This position typically works Monday through Friday but needs flexibility and availability to work alternative shifts including weekends, holidays, overnights as needed to meet the needs of the program.

Responsibilities:

Manage and document consumer funds.

Ensure consumers maintain adequate benefits (e.g., health care, dental, vision).

Develop and manage site schedules within budget.

Oversee household purchasing and grocery shopping within budget guidelines.

Recommend program supply purchases.

Oversee and coordinate ID Residential program services.

Participate in meetings and QA projects.

Ensure the residence is clean, safe, and maintained.

Manage site/agency vehicle upkeep and coordinate transportation needs.

Schedule and coordinate delivery of various supports (medical, psychological, etc.).

Complete required reports and assessments.

Work as part of the direct care schedule and ensure adequate coverage.

Maintain effective relationships with consumers and protect their rights.

Ensure site records are maintained and assist staff with record-keeping systems.

Provide direction to DSPs and Trainees on various responsibilities (e.g., dietary needs, housekeeping, community outings).

Make recommendations for disciplinary actions, recognition, and training.

Coordinate staff coverage and arrange emergency coverage.

Foster a professional and cooperative work environment, mentoring and motivating staff.

High School/GED and two years of working with persons with intellectual disabilities

OR

Associate's degree and 1 year related experience.

Must be 21 years of age or older with a valid PA driver's license and meet the guidelines to be accepted on the agency's vehicle insurance policy.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Comprehensive Crisis Management (CCMC)

Driver's License

Act 34

OAPSA

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran