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Direct Service Provider Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Provide direct mental health services to clients referred for Rehabilitation Services based on well-developed knowledge and understanding of psychiatric/mental health theory, principles of vocational ...

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Direct Service Provider information

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$7

$15

$19

How much do direct service provider jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service provider in Pennsylvania is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct service provider?

Direct Service Providers (DSPs) are professionals who offer hands-on support and assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs. Their work often includes helping clients with daily living activities, personal care, transportation, and participation in community activities. DSPs play a crucial role in promoting independence, empowerment, and quality of life for the people they serve. They may work in residential homes, day programs, or clients' personal residences, ensuring that each individual receives the care and support they need.

What are some common challenges direct service providers face when supporting clients, and how can these be managed?

Direct Service Providers often encounter challenges such as managing clients with diverse and complex needs, navigating emotional situations, and balancing administrative tasks with direct care. These challenges can be managed by leaning on strong communication skills, seeking regular supervision or peer support, and utilizing ongoing training opportunities to stay informed about best practices. Building trust and maintaining professional boundaries with clients are also crucial for success and personal well-being in this role.

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

To thrive as a Direct Service Provider, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving skills, and knowledge of safety and health protocols. Familiarity with client documentation systems, first aid/CPR certification, and assistive technology is often required. Patience, strong interpersonal communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for building trust and supporting clients effectively. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensuring client well-being, safety, and the delivery of high-quality, person-centered care.

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

AspectDirect Service ProviderPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsVaries; often includes training or certification depending on stateOften requires certification or training, such as CPR or first aid
Work EnvironmentCommunity settings, clients' homes, healthcare facilitiesPrimarily in clients' homes or healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageHome care agencies, healthcare providers, community organizationsHome health agencies, private clients, healthcare facilities
Job FocusProviding a range of support services including personal care, companionship, and assistance with daily activitiesAssisting with personal care, mobility, and daily living tasks

Both roles involve supporting individuals with daily needs, but a Direct Service Provider often has a broader scope of services and may work in various settings, while a Personal Care Assistant typically focuses on personal care tasks primarily in home environments.

Is a degree needed to be a direct service provider?

A degree is not typically required to become a direct service provider, but relevant certifications, training, and experience are often necessary depending on the specific role and setting. Many positions prioritize skills, compassion, and knowledge of the population served over formal education levels.

Is a direct service provider a good career?

A direct service provider is a role that involves assisting individuals with daily needs, often in healthcare, social services, or community programs. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others, with opportunities for certification, skill development, and job stability, though it may also involve physically and emotionally demanding work. Overall, it is considered a stable and meaningful career path for those committed to service work.
Infographic showing various Direct Service Provider job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,963 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Psych Rehab Worker-Part Time Nights (Hanover)

UPMC Senior Communities

Hanover, PA โ€ข On-site

$20.45 - $30.68/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

UPMC is hiring a Part-Time Nights, Psych Rehab Worker to support the Hanover Emergency Department.
Hours are 7:00pm-7:00am during the week
Every 3rd Friday and Saturday required
Every other holiday required
Previous behavioral health experience is preferred
Purpose:
The incumbent is primarily responsible for the provision of Psychiatric Rehabilitation services, both facility and community based, through individual and group activities for an identified caseload, including conducting assessment activities and the development of rehabilitation plans.
Responsibilities:
  • Assists in development, planning, implementation, and evaluation of psychiatric rehabilitation group programming and psychosocial rehabilitation programming.
  • Participate in interagency and Psychiatric Rehabilitation Team/Staff meetings as required. Assist consumers with identification, linkage and access to mental health and community resources.
  • Maintains certification in First Aid/CPR and crisis management and responds appropriately in crisis situations.
  • Educate consumers, family members and other support persons on an on-going basis about the principles of Psychiatric Rehabilitation, problem solving strategies and the services delivery system.
  • Provides psychiatric rehabilitation services in the community as necessary, with ability to work evenings and weekends to meet program needs.
  • Works individually and in groups with consumers referred for Rehabilitation Services, providing comprehensive services consisting of assessment, identifying goals, plan development, interventions, and evaluation of progress.
  • Provide direct mental health services to clients referred for Rehabilitation Services based on well-developed knowledge and understanding of psychiatric/mental health theory, principles of vocational rehabilitation, psychiatric rehabilitation, individual, group, and family counseling.
  • Maintains accuracy and completeness of consumer records in compliance with program standards and state standards.
  • Maintains all annual training topic and hour requirements as set forth in PR regulations.

Qualifications:
  • A bachelor's degree
  • OR an Associate's degree and 1 year work experience in mental health direct service
  • OR a CPS certificate and 1 additional year paid or volunteer work experience in mental health direct service
  • OR a high school diploma or GED and 2 years work experience in human services which must include 1 year of mental health direct service
  • Previous behavioral health experience is preferred
    Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
  • Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting with renewal
  • Act 33 with renewal
  • Act 34 with renewal
  • Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran