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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Million Air

Line Service Professional

Richmond, VA

$16.25 - $18.75/hr

The Line Service Professional plays a vital role to our daily operations and will provide an elite ... and direct contact with both moving and non-moving aircraft. This position may be exposed to ...

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$8

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$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 Virginia is $16.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $18.37 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 are the most commonly searched types of Direct Service jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Direct Service jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Direct Service Professional jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Direct Service Professional job openings:
Direct Service Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Professional job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,564 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Direct Service Professional - Lead - New Life

New River Valley Community Services

Radford, VA • On-site

$18.92/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

New River Valley Community Services rating

3.6

Company rating: 3.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


New River Valley Community Services New Life Recovery Center is seeking a Direct Service Professional Lead! The Direct Service Professional (DSP) Lead provides direct care services to individuals receiving ASAM Level 3.5 residential substance use disorder treatment. In addition to fulfilling all responsibilities of the Direct Service Professional position, the DSP Lead serves as the designated shift leader, providing day-to-day operational leadership, mentoring, and guidance to Direct Service Professionals while promoting a safe, therapeutic, recovery-oriented environment.
The DSP Lead models professionalism, person-centered care, trauma-informed practices, ethical boundaries, and recovery-oriented interactions. This position supports daily program operations, promotes consistency across shifts, and serves as the primary resource for DSP staff during routine operations while collaborating closely with the Program Supervisor and clinical team.
Minimum Salary: $18.92/hour -Depending on Experience/Education
Educations Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Associate degree in Human Services or related field preferred.
  • QMHP Preferred.
  • Minimum one year of experience working in behavioral health, substance use treatment, residential services, or a related human services field preferred.

Additional compensation will be considered for any new employees that speak multiple languages.

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