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Direct Service Worker Jobs in Alexandria, LA (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Service Worker information

See Alexandria, LA salary details

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How much do direct service worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service worker in Alexandria, LA is $12.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $7.98 and $15.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct service worker?

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 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.

More about Direct Service Worker jobs

What cities near Alexandria, LA are hiring for Direct Service Worker jobs?

Cities near Alexandria, LA with the most Direct Service Worker job openings:

Direct Service Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service Worker job openings in Alexandria, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,250 per year, or $12.6 per hour.

CMA / Direct Service Worker

Louisiana Community Care

Ball, LA • On-site

$9.50 - $12/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Schedule 8am - 4pm Monday Thru Friday WEEKENDS OFFBenefits Offered MedicalEmployment Type Full-TimeJob SummaryThis job is with the vocational services department. Responsibilities include assisting individuals with disabilities with vocational or job skills training and learning activities 8:00a - 4:00p Monday through Friday.Requirements:Must have a VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE.Must have a clean driving record.Physically able to stand and walk for long periods of time.Personality:Must be pleasant in personalityAble to be patient with people, not rushing to complete tasksMust be able to multi taskMust be very adaptableMust be able to work with others in many different settingsJob Type: Full-timeSchedule:8 hour shiftAbility to commute/relocate:Ball, LA 71405: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting workEducation:High School Diploma or equivalentLicense/Certification:Louisiana Driver's LicenseShift availability:Day ShiftAbout Louisiana Community Care:Since 1988, Louisiana Community Care, Inc. has specialized in providing services to people 18 years and older with developmental, physical, and mental disabilities. LCC, Inc. currently provides services to 100 individuals in Region VI.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro