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Direct Service Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Newton, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

East Walpole, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Auburndale, MA · On-site

$19/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Auburndale, MA

$19/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Natick, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$19/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Newton, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Communicare

Direct Service Worker

Oxford, MS · On-site

COMMUNICARE DIRECT SERVICE WORKER RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. The Day Services Adult Direct Support Professional will provide direct care for individuals who are designated as ID/DD who attend the Adult Day ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Southborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Northborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Natick, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program ...

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All JobsDirect Service Worker Jobs

Direct Service Worker information

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$7

$13

$22

How much do direct service worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service worker in the United States is $13.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.65 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Direct Service Worker vs Home Health Aide?

AspectDirect Service WorkerHome Health Aide
CertificationsVaries by role, often includes CPR or basic trainingTypically requires HHA certification or training
Work EnvironmentCommunity settings, client homes, facilitiesClient homes, healthcare settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, social services, healthcareHospitals, home care agencies, healthcare

Both roles involve providing personal care and support to clients, but Direct Service Workers often have broader responsibilities in social services, while Home Health Aides focus specifically on healthcare-related tasks in home settings. The choice depends on the required certifications and work environment preferences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Service Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Service Worker, you need a high school diploma (or equivalent), basic caregiving knowledge, and sometimes specialized training or certification in areas like CPR or first aid. Familiarity with care documentation systems and assistive devices is often required in this role. Patience, compassion, strong communication, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for supporting clients with varying needs. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure client safety, promote independence, and provide high-quality support in diverse care environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Direct Service Workers, and how can they effectively manage them?

Direct Service Workers often encounter challenges such as managing clients with diverse needs, handling emotionally charged situations, and maintaining professional boundaries. It’s important to develop strong communication skills and resilience to effectively support clients while also practicing self-care to prevent burnout. Many organizations offer training, peer support groups, and supervision to help workers navigate difficult situations and continuously improve their skills.

What is a Direct Service Worker?

A Direct Service Worker (DSW) is a professional who provides hands-on support and assistance to individuals with disabilities, elderly clients, or those needing help with daily living activities. Their duties often include helping with personal care, meal preparation, medication reminders, and companionship. DSWs may work in clients’ homes, group homes, or community settings, and play a vital role in enhancing their clients’ independence and quality of life. They also serve as advocates, ensuring clients’ needs and preferences are respected.

What Is a Direct Service Worker?

A direct service worker (DSW) provides personal care to the elderly and disabled. They often work in an assisted living center, but sometimes work directly in the client’s home. As a DSW, your job is to help clients with all daily living activities. Your primary duties involve administering medication, preparing meals, assisting with personal hygiene, performing minor housekeeping, and keeping your client company. Though many direct service workers earn an associate or bachelor’s degree, the career doesn’t require formal education. Instead, the main qualifications are basic personal care experience and excellent communication skills.

More about Direct Service Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Direct Service Worker jobs? Cities with the most Direct Service Worker job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Direct Service Worker jobs? The top employers for Direct Service Worker jobs are:
What states have the most Direct Service Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Service Worker jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Direct Service Worker jobs? For Direct Service Worker jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Direct Service Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Worker job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 13% Full Time, 78% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,498 per year, or $13.7 per hour.

Direct Service Worker

We Care Sitting Services LLC

Shreveport, LA

$9/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

We Care Sitting Services, LLC is looking for a capable direct service workers (DSW) to assist clients to live independently while maintaining a productive life. A direct Service Worker (DSW) cares for the elderly and people with disabilities to encourage them to lead independent lives and to be integrated into their communities. The DSW will follow the Clients Plan of Care daily and record all task and finding daily while reporting any new conditions or needs that may arise.
To succeed as a DSW you should be patient, empathetic, and have strong people skills. You should be observant and committed to making your client feel safe and comfortable.

Direct Service Worker Responsibilities:

  • Assisting with personal care, which may include bathroom functions, bathing, grooming, dressing, and eating.
  • Following a client's plan of care, which may include assisting with exercise of range of motion and administering medication.
  • Ensuring the client’s home is organized according to their needs and that safety measures are in place. You may also be expected to assist with some light housework.
  • Providing emotional support and encouragement to perform necessary tasks.
  • Providing mobility assistance may be required, for example helping the client in and out of bed, a chair, or a wheelchair.
  • Transporting or escorting the client to medical and other appointments.
  • Monitoring and reporting changes in health, behavior, and needs.
  • Promoting independence in daily activities, such as work, learning, and leisure.
  • Maintaining knowledge of residents’ requirements.
  • Complying with the companies policies and procedures.
  • Maintaining daily documentation in compliance with company procedures and the state guidelines.
Direct Service Worker Requirements:

  • High school diploma, GED, or suitable equivalent.
  • Mandt, CPR, and first aid certification.
  • Completion of provided training.
  • Completion of a criminal background check and health screening.
  • A professional and friendly attitude.
  • Valid driver’s license, own reliable vehicle, and good driving record.
  • Comfortable with assisting clients with hygiene and medical routines.
  • Open Availability is a MUST.
  • Outstanding organizational and people skills.