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Direct Care Worker Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Vision insurance Direct Care Professional Department: Developmental Brain Injury Services Location ... If you enjoy working with adults who have brain injuries and want to be part of a team that ...

Direct Care Professional

Wilbraham, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Vision insurance Direct Care Professional Department: Developmental Brain Injury Services Location ... If you enjoy working with adults who have brain injuries and want to be part of a team that ...

Direct Care Professional

Westfield, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Vision insurance Direct Care Professional Department: Developmental Brain Injury Services Location ... If you enjoy working with adults who have brain injuries and want to be part of a team that ...

Direct Care Professional

Palmer, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Vision insurance Direct Care Professional Department: Developmental Brain Injury Services Location ... If you enjoy working with adults who have brain injuries and want to be part of a team that ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Care Worker information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do direct care worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care worker in Springfield, MA is $15.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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

Certification requirements for direct care workers vary by state and employer, but many states require or prefer certification such as the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential. Some positions may not require certification but often require training and background checks. Having certification can improve job prospects and demonstrate competency in caregiving skills.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Care Worker jobs in Springfield, MA?

For Direct Care Worker jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Care Worker jobs in Springfield, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Care Worker jobs in Springfield, MA are:

What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Direct Care Worker jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Direct Care Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Care Worker job openings in Springfield, MA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, and 51% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,241 per year, or $15 per hour.

Direct Care

East Longmeadow, MA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Center for Human Development, (CHD), is currently looking for Direct Care staff to join our new Enhanced Medical Group Living Environment (EMGLE) program. This brand new 18-bed facility in East Longmeadow, MA allows you the ability to provide quality care and support to those we serve with a small client ratio. You will work alongside a supportive team of LPNs, and CNAs, providing care and compassion, all the while gaining valuable experience in CHD's modern EMGLE facility.
a little about the emgle facility:
The Enhanced Medical GLE (EMGLE) provides a variety of skilled healthcare and supportive services including around the clock nursing and personal care assistance to Persons with mental illness in addition to compounding medical needs. The program serves individuals with layered psychiatric, cognitive, and medical conditions. Several residents are considered high-risk due to histories of psychiatric decompensation, behavioral crises, and medical instability. Presenting challenges have included repeated hospitalizations, boundary violations, aggressive outbursts, and refusal of care
A competitive hourly wage of $20.00 and an attractive benefit package are available with this Direct Care opportunity.
YOUR ROLE AS A DIRECT CARE YOU WILL:
  • Cleaning of overall facility/rooms.
  • Provides activities of daily living (ADL's) by assisting with preparing and serving meals, feeding persons served, personal care support, ambulating.
  • Transportation of persons served, as needed in program van.
  • Provide behavioral support, intervention and de-escalation.
  • No Med Pass required!

Qualifications:
  • CPR and First Aid certified, preferred.
  • Valid driver's license, with acceptable driving history.
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check.
  • Meeting physical demands of the role. IE: Ability to lift 45 lbs. or more, stocking supplies, exercising groups, extended periods of walking and/or standing.
  • Minimum six months or more experience working in a mental health/behavioral supports field required.
  • Participate and successfully complete training requirements in compliance with CHD and the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health.

SUCCESS FACTORS:
  • Enthusiasm and passion for the work they do.
  • Ability to collaborate and work within a team environment.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong written skills and experience with Electronic Health Record Management is a plus.
  • Maintain safe work operations by following policies and procedures.

AT CEnter for human development (chd) Care Finds a way:
The Center for Human Development (CHD) provides a broad range of high quality, community-oriented human services dedicated to promoting, enhancing, and protecting the dignity and welfare of people in need. At CHD we are celebrating differences, inclusion is not just a policy- it is a daily practice. Multicultural, multilingual, and fluent in sign language, CHD is a reflection of those we serve.
CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM TODAY!
If this sounds like the right job for you, do not wait - apply today to join our team. We look forward to hearing from you!
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.