ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Service Professional Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kainos USA

Direct Service Professional

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Join our team as a Caregiver-Direct Care Professional. Current Shifts: Friday 1PM-9PM or 4-9PM, Saturday 10 AM to 6PM and Sunday 8AM to 4PM On Call Who We Are: Kainos Home and Training Center is a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirect Service Professional JobsDirect Service Professional Jobs in California

Direct Service Professional information

See California salary details

$8

$16

$21

How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in California is $16.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by direct service professionals and how can they be addressed?

Direct Service Professionals often encounter challenges such as managing clients with complex behavioral needs, maintaining clear communication among team members, and balancing documentation requirements with hands-on support. To address these challenges, it's important to participate in regular training sessions, collaborate closely with supervisors and colleagues, and utilize available support resources. Building strong relationships with clients and fostering a positive, team-oriented environment also help make the role more rewarding and manageable.

What is the difference between Direct Service Professional vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Service ProfessionalPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires CPR, First Aid, and sometimes specialized trainingMay require basic certifications like CPR, First Aid, but less specialized training
Work EnvironmentCommunity settings, group homes, residential facilitiesPrivate homes, individual client settings
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, social services, non-profitsHome care agencies, private clients
Job FocusSupporting individuals with disabilities, mental health, or developmental needsAssisting with daily living activities for elderly or disabled clients

While both roles involve providing care and support, a Direct Service Professional typically works in community or facility settings with a focus on individuals with disabilities or mental health needs, often requiring specialized training. A Personal Care Assistant usually works in private homes, assisting with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and mobility, often with fewer certifications required.

What is a direct service professional?

A direct support professional works to assist people with disabilities. In this career, your job duties include helping people in a residential assisted living community; however, most direct support professionals work offsite in the homes or schools of support program participants. You need strong organizational and communication skills to deal with clients, their other caretakers, and their family members. Most employers expect you to document your experience with each client and note changes in behavior and progress toward developmental goals. Educational qualifications include a high school diploma and previous experience or on-the-job training.

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

To thrive as a Direct Service Professional, you need a foundational understanding of client care, basic health and safety, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electronic documentation systems and CPR/First Aid certification are often required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are crucial soft skills for building trust with clients and supporting their daily needs. These abilities are essential for providing quality care, ensuring client well-being, and fostering a supportive environment.

Is a direct service professional a good career?

A direct service professional (DSP) provides support to individuals with disabilities or mental health needs, often working in community or residential settings. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others, with opportunities for certification, skill development, and flexible schedules, though it may involve physically and emotionally demanding work. Job satisfaction often depends on personal interests and the work environment.

What qualifications do I need for a direct service professional job?

A direct service professional typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and may require CPR and first aid certifications. Relevant skills include strong communication, patience, and the ability to work with diverse populations; some positions may also require background checks and training specific to the client population.
More about Direct Service Professional jobs
What cities in California are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs? Cities in California with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:
Direct Service Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,406 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Direct Service Professional

Kainos USA

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Do you want to make a difference in the lives of adults with developmental disabilities? Join our team as a Caregiver-Direct Service Professional.
Current Shifts:
SUNDAY OVERNIGHT (4pm Sunday to 8am Monday)
Who We Are: Kainos Home and Training Center is a non-profit organization providing employment training and placement to individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. At the heart of our philosophy is a commitment to help each person become productive and realize the satisfaction of accomplishment through work. More information about the agency is available at http://www.kainosusa.org/.
What You Will Do: Kainos is seeking a Direct Service Professionals. This person will work with adults who are developmentally disabled in our Residential Living Program. We are looking for an applicant who is kind, responsible, comfortable taking initiative, and has excellent time management skills. The ideal applicant will be able to work both independently and cooperatively within a dynamic team of staff who collaborate regularly to provide a safe and stimulating environment for those we serve.
What We Are Looking For/ Our Ideal Candidate:
* Passionate about working with individuals with intellectual disabilities.
* Eager to support individuals with all daily living skills.
* Energetic, personable, and able to work independently
  • High School diploma required, BA/BS strongly preferred.
  • Experience with developmental disabilities preferred.
  • Must be a self-starter and able to work to independently.
  • Must be dependable, reliable and able to be flexible with schedule.
  • Demonstrate enthusiasm, ability to problem solve, good communication skills and the ability to multi-task.
  • Valid CDL, clean driving record.
  • California Department of Justice and FBI fingerprint clearances.

Does This Sound Like You?
Kainos Home & Training Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Job Types: Part-time
Salary: $24.00 per hour (day shift 6am to 10pm) $20 Per hour (night shift 10pm to 6am)

Apply