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Direct Service Professional Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Platts Family Residential Services

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Direct Support Professional

Hampton, VA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Title Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Summary A Direct ... Follow individualized service plans and care plans * Assist with mobility and transfers when needed

Platts Family Residential Services

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Direct Support Professional

Hampton, VA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Title Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Summary A Direct ... Follow individualized service plans and care plans * Assist with mobility and transfers when needed

A Tiny Ripple Of Hope, LLC

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Qualified Mental Health Professional - QMHP

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Direct Service Delivery * Provide Mental Health Skill ... Professional Responsibilities * Attend supervision and staff meetings. * Maintain required ...

A Tiny Ripple Of Hope, LLC

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Qualified Mental Health Professional - QMHP

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Direct Service Delivery * Provide Mental Health Skill ... Professional Responsibilities * Attend supervision and staff meetings. * Maintain required ...

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Direct Service Professional information

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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 Support Professional

Cornerstone Support Services

Providence Forge, VA • On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) ensures the health and safety of our residents. DSPs are responsible for providing support as identified in the Individual Support Plan, and for collecting data and documenting the provision of those supports. We are looking for driven, dependable, and compassionate individuals who want to make a difference in people's lives. You will assist adults with developmental disabilities with daily life activities in both routine and dynamic environments. This job can offer great experience for anyone interested in human services and the fulfillment of being a part of Cornerstone's mission.


Who We Are
Cornerstone Support Services is a Non-Profit, 501(c)3 Provider of Support Services for Adults with Developmental Disabilities, licensed by Virginia's Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. We believe that every person has the potential for growth, learning, and development. The choices we make, no matter how large or small, define who we become, and the freedom to make those choices is invaluable to all of us. By providing a safe and healthy support structure we know that our service recipients will be empowered to live self-directed lives.


Examples of Direct Support Professional responsibilities

  • Provide supervision and guidance for residents during skill building activities
  • Implement individual support plans for residents
  • Assist with daily living activities, including preparing meals and assisting with personal hygiene
  • Develop a rapport with residents and cultivate a safe and supportive relationship
  • Update resident case notes on a daily basis
  • Ensure an appropriate staff-to-client ratio at all times


Examples of Direct Support Professional skills

  • High school diploma/GED required
  • Valid drivers license
  • Excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills
  • Compassionate about the care and well-being of others


Benefits

  • Medical, Vision, & Dental Insurance (Full Time)
  • Paid Time Off (Full Time)
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Employee Referral Bonuses
  • Annual Pay Increases
  • Career Track Program for Career Advancement Opportunities

Apply