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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Rhode Island

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Direct Service Professional information

See Rhode Island salary details

$8

$16

$21

How much do direct service professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service professional in Rhode Island is $16.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 advancement, though it may involve physically demanding work and variable schedules.
More about Direct Service Professional jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Service jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Direct Service jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:

Direct Service Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,142 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

West Bay Residential Services

Warwick, RI • On-site

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Find Your Passion. Build a Career That Matters.

Now Hiring: Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)

NEW PAY RATE: $21.50–$22.50/hour

+ $1.00/hour Weekend Differential

Flexible Full-Time & Part-Time Schedules Available 1st Shift • 2nd Shift • Combination Shifts

Make a Difference Every Day

Looking for a career where your work truly matters? As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you'll help individuals with intellectual, developmental, and emotional disabilities live more independent, fulfilling lives at home and in their communities.

Every day brings the opportunity to encourage independence, celebrate achievements, and build meaningful relationships-all while working alongside a supportive team that values compassion, respect, and personal growth.

Whether you're beginning your career, changing professions, or looking for meaningful full-time or part-time work, we'd love to meet you.

Why Join Our Team?

Perfect for College Students & Career Builders

Flexible scheduling makes this an excellent opportunity for students pursuing degrees in: Psychology, Social Work, Nursing, Education, Human Services, Healthcare.

Gain valuable hands-on experience while making a real impact in people's lives.

What You'll Do

As a DSP, you'll help individuals thrive by providing compassionate, person-centered support, including:

  • Assisting with personal care and daily living activities
  • Preparing meals and supporting dietary needs
  • Helping with household tasks and errands
  • Transporting and accompanying individuals to appointments and community activities
  • Administering medications and treatments according to policy
  • Encouraging independence, confidence, and community involvement
  • Building positive relationships with individuals, families, and coworkers
  • Maintaining accurate documentation and following individualized care plans
  • Promoting a safe, healthy, and respectful living environment
  • Participating in required training and professional development

What You'll Need

High school diploma or GED

Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Ability to lift 25–50 lbs. (with assistance or lifting devices as needed)

Ability to bend, kneel, squat, push, and pull throughout the workday

A compassionate, dependable, and patient attitude

A genuine desire to help others succeed

What We Offer

Competitive Pay

  • $21.50–$22.50/hour
  • +$1.00/hour weekend differential

Flexible Scheduling

Full-Time & Part-Time opportunities

1st, 2nd, and combination 1st and 2nd shifts available

Weekend availability required

Outstanding Benefits for Full-Time Employees (30+ hours/week)

Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical Insurance (HMO & PPO); Health Reimbursement Account (HRA); Dental & Vision Insurance; Agency-paid Life Insurance; 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match; Paid Vacation and Sick Time; Tuition Reimbursement (up to $2,400/year); Employee Assistance Program (EAP); Career Growth & Advancement Opportunities; Supplemental Aflac Coverage (i.e. Accident, Cancer and Life); Pet Insurance; Identity Theft Protection

More Than a Job-A Career with Purpose

Every smile, every milestone, and every success story starts with someone who cares.

If you're compassionate, dependable, and ready to make a lasting difference, we invite you to join our team.

Apply today and help empower individuals to live their best lives.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO)

Apply