ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Care Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Valir Health

PACE Direct Care Aide

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Gardant

Direct Care Aide (DCA) - PRN

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

Provides compassionate and dignified care while guiding residents through their activities of daily living * Connects with residents and family members in a compassionate and impactful manner ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsDirect Care JobsDirect Care Jobs in Virginia

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:

Direct Care jobs near you
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.

PACE Direct Care Aide

Valir Health

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Cherry Blossom PACE provides integrated medical and social services to our most vulnerable seniors, helping to unlock their full potential. We are looking for team members who are energized by working in diverse teams toward our shared purpose. Those eager to drive groundbreaking innovation, and who will interact with those we serve and those who serve them in a spirit of understanding and compassion.

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Competitive pay, retention and referral bonuses
  • Outstanding Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid day off for your birthday
  • 401K Company match on day one
  • Company paid life insurance
  • Generous PTO
  • Career development opportunities
  • Employee Recognition

#PACE

Job Summary:

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 provided in accordance with the individualized plan of care and under the supervision of licensed nursing staff, in compliance with Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and Virginia Board of Nursing regulations governing home care and adult day health services.

Education, Licenses, Certifications and Experience:

  • Must be certified as a Nurse Aide by the Virginia Board of Nursing and listed in active status on the Virginia Nurse Aide Registry, OR
  • Must have successfully completed a Virginia Board of Nursing-approved Personal Care Aide or Home Health Aide training program and meet the competency evaluation requirements.
  • Current CPR certification from the American Heart Association or equivalent.
  • Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and reliable transportation
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum one year of experience working with older adults or individuals with functional impairments, preferred.

Apply