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Direct Care Worker Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary The Youth Care Worker has the direct responsibility for guidance and supervision of the youth to whom he/she is assigned including overseeing physical care, development of acceptable ...

Successful completion of a personal care aide/direct care aide training approved by the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Service and/or completion of at least one clinical course including ...

Successful completion of a personal care aide/direct care aide training approved by the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Service and/or completion of at least one clinical course including ...

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Richmond, VA If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be one, this is the ...

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Direct Care Worker information

See Virginia salary details

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How much do direct care worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care worker in Virginia is $14.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you have to be certified to be a direct care worker?

Requirements for certification to become a direct care worker vary by state or employer, but many states require certification or training programs to ensure proper care skills. Some positions may only require a background check and basic training, while others mandate formal certification or licensing. It is important to check local regulations and employer requirements for specific certification needs.

What are some typical challenges direct care workers face when supporting clients with diverse needs?

Direct Care Workers often encounter challenges such as managing clients with varying levels of independence, communication barriers, and behavioral issues. Adapting care strategies to suit each individual's unique needs requires patience, flexibility, and strong problem-solving skills. Additionally, Direct Care Workers must balance the emotional demands of the role while maintaining professional boundaries. Ongoing teamwork and open communication with supervisors and healthcare professionals are essential for providing quality care and overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Direct Care Worker, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic healthcare knowledge, and experience or training in personal care assistance. Familiarity with care documentation systems, safety protocols, and CPR/First Aid certifications are often required. Compassion, patience, active listening, and strong interpersonal skills help build trust and provide effective support to clients. These abilities ensure the well-being, dignity, and safety of individuals receiving care, making a positive impact on their daily lives.

What is a direct care worker?

Direct Care Workers are professionals who provide essential support and assistance to individuals who are elderly, disabled, or otherwise in need of help with daily living activities. They often work in settings such as clients' homes, assisted living facilities, or group homes, helping with tasks like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication reminders. Their role is crucial in promoting the independence, safety, and well-being of those they care for, while also offering companionship and emotional support.

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

AspectDirect Care WorkerPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, state-specific certificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes additional training
Work EnvironmentHome care, assisted living, nursing homesHome care, private residences, healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, home health agenciesHome care agencies, private clients
Job DutiesAssisting with daily living, basic health monitoringPersonal hygiene, mobility assistance, companionship

Both roles involve providing essential support to individuals needing assistance, often in similar settings. While the titles are used interchangeably, 'Direct Care Worker' is a broader term encompassing various caregiving roles, whereas 'Personal Care Assistant' often emphasizes personal hygiene and daily living tasks. Understanding these differences can help job seekers find the right position based on their skills and certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Care Worker jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Direct Care Worker jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Direct Care Worker jobs in Virginia? For Direct Care Worker jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Care Worker jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Care Worker jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Direct Care Worker jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Direct Care Worker job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Direct Care Worker jobs in VA? For Direct Care Worker jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Direct Care Worker job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,082 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Youth Care Worker

HopeTree Family Services

Salem, VA • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

The Youth Care Worker has the direct responsibility for guidance and supervision of the youth to whom he/she is assigned including overseeing physical care, development of acceptable habits and attitudes, management of youth behavior, and helping to meet the goals and objectives of any required service plan all while observing professional boundaries with clients and co-workers. The Youth Care Worker role is the foundation of the program serving as a support and source of direction for youth within the program.

Position Responsibilities

  • Provides adequate supervision of youth in his/her care andalways knows their whereabouts. Completes wellness/mental health checks as needed to provideappropriate supervision.
  • Prepares for shift byplanning foractivities that meet the physical, emotional, intellectual, and/or social needs of all youthinprogram.
  • Modelsappropriate behavior and attitudewith andfor youth and co-workers.Controlling personal feelings in front of youth.
  • Follows Medication Policy, including administration, documentation on MAR, Medical FYI's and healthcare appointments.
  • Is sensitive to youth history and needs.
  • Usesappropriatetone of voice, speaks respectfully, and consistently treatsothersfairly.
  • Meets emotional needs ofyouth:providessafeenvironment to share emotional needs/concerns, offers individual attention, listens without judgement.
  • Meets physical needs of youth by providing daily exerciseopportunityand encouraging healthy habits.
  • Meets medical needs of youth: contacting physicians when needed,follows all medical plans outlined in MAR,relaying health concerns to necessary personnel and scheduling appointments.
  • Buildsrelationshipwith youth in care,maintainsrelationshipeven whenredirectingbehaviors.
  • Is trauma informedand isknowledgeable about common mental health diagnosis ofresidents.
  • Continuallyseekskill improvement and training materials relevant to job duties.
  • Teachesyouth basic life skills such as good personal hygiene, laundry, and cleanliness.
  • Ensures cottage chores are completed daily by youth,teachesand modelsnecessary skills in this area andassistswhen necessary.
  • Personally,helpsclean the cottage when neededin order tomaintainaclean livingenvironment for the youth (including but not limited todishes, trash, floors, and bathrooms).
  • Meets twice a month withprimary to reviewgoals andobjectives.
  • Handles crisis situations and interventions appropriately.Includingfollowingprocedures for Serious Incident Reporting.
  • Follows policyregardingnotification of guardians or emergency on-callcaseworkers when needed(all notifications within 24hours).
  • Attends andactivelyparticipatesin supervision, program meetings, treatment teams, and youth staffing as needed.
  • Observesprofessional boundaries with youthand co-workers.
  • Reads, understands, and implements licensure standards and HTFS policy.
  • Participates in change of dutyat each shift changeand completes all items on checklist, ensuring proper documentation and notification have been made.
  • Isdependable and performs duties withoutrequiringprompting.
  • Documentation istimely,professional, thorough, complete, and provides adequate detail.
  • Completesallrequiredtrainingson-time.
  • Presents toshifton time,well-groomed,andin accordance withHTFS dress code.
  • Promotes and contributes to a supportive team atmosphere.
  • Prepares for andfacilitatesdaily cottage groups.
  • Comply withall applicable state and agency policies and regulations.
  • Ensure all Serious Incident Reports from the shift have been completed.
  • Promote a see it, own it, and solve it environment.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree in human services (Preferred)
  • Have an associate’s degree and 3 months experience working directly with children
  • Have ahigh school diploma or GED and 6 months experience working directly with children.
  • Be 21 years of age or older
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Must have knowledge of adolescent behaviors and appropriate boundaries with clients.
  • Possess a good driving record with a valid driver’s license.
  • Be able to pass a criminal background check.