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Direct Care Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sentara Internal Medicine and Primary Care is currently seeking a Direct Care-Registered Nurse to join our team in Waynesboro, VA. Qualified candidates may be eligible for up to a 10,000 Sign-On ...

Sentara Family Medicine Physicians Lorton is currently seeking a Direct Care-Registered Nurse to join our team in Lorton, VA. Qualified candidates may be eligible for up to a 10,000 Sign-On Bonus!

Direct Care Aide (DCA)

Elkton, VA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Journeys Crossing is looking for a Direct Care Aides (DCA) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to join our team in Elkton VA. The DCA, and/or CNA will provide nursing care to patients and assist ...

Direct Care Aide (DCA)

Elkton, VA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Journeys Crossing is looking for a Direct Care Aides (DCA) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to join our team in Elkton VA. The DCA, and/or CNA will provide nursing care to patients and assist ...

PACE Direct Care Aide

Alexandria, VA

$14.75 - $19/hr

The Direct Care Aide provides high-quality, compassionate personal care and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) to participants enrolled in the Cherry Blossom PACE program. Services are ...

PACE Direct Care Aide

Alexandria, VA

$14.75 - $19/hr

The Direct Care Aide provides high-quality, compassionate personal care and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) to participants enrolled in the Cherry Blossom PACE program. Services are ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Care information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$16

$23

How much do direct care jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct care in Virginia is $16.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $17.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct care worker?

Direct care workers are professionals who provide essential hands-on care and support to individuals who need assistance with daily living activities due to age, illness, or disability. Their responsibilities often include helping with personal hygiene, meal preparation, mobility, medication reminders, and companionship. Direct care workers can be employed in various settings such as private homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, or group homes. They play a vital role in improving the quality of life for those they care for by promoting independence and well-being.

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

To thrive as a Direct Care Worker, you need a foundational understanding of personal care, safety protocols, and basic healthcare, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification such as CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with care documentation systems and assistive devices is commonly required to ensure proper client support and record-keeping. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and reliability are standout soft skills for building trust and effectively supporting clients' daily needs. These abilities are crucial for promoting client well-being, independence, and maintaining a safe, 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 with complex behavioral or medical needs, handling emotionally demanding situations, and balancing documentation requirements with hands-on care. Effective management of these challenges includes participating in regular training, collaborating closely with team members like nurses and social workers, and utilizing available support resources such as supervision and counseling. Open communication, strong teamwork, and self-care practices are essential for maintaining resilience and providing high-quality care.

What is the difference between Direct Care vs Personal Care Aide?

AspectDirect CarePersonal Care Aide
CertificationsVaries by state, often includes CPR/First AidOften requires basic training, CPR/First Aid
Work EnvironmentHospitals, nursing homes, home careHome settings, assisted living
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with daily activities, health monitoringPersonal hygiene, mobility, companionship
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, home health agenciesHome care agencies, assisted living facilities

Both roles involve providing care to individuals in need, but Direct Care often encompasses a broader range of healthcare tasks, while Personal Care Aides focus more on daily living assistance and companionship. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit for their skills and career goals.

How much do direct care workers make in the US?

Direct care workers in the US typically earn a median hourly wage of around $13 to $15, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $27,000 to $31,000. Wages vary based on experience, location, and certifications, and many work in settings such as home care or assisted living facilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Care jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Direct Care jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Direct Care jobs in Virginia?

For Direct Care jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Care jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Care jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Direct Care jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Direct Care job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Care job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,587 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Pay range: $16-$19 per hour.

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: 460 South Main St, Kilmarnock VA 22482

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

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.