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Direct Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA

$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

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, Inc

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

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

Auburndale, 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

$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 ...

Moore Care LLC

Direct Service Worker

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$9 - $11/hr

Direct Service Worker, CNA, aide, care, giver, health, assisted, living, senior, home, nursing, community, personal care aide, companion, personal assistant, PCA, personal care assistant

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Newton, MA

$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

Hudson, MA

$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

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 ...

Kainos USA

Direct Service Professional

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Join our team as a Caregiver-Direct Care Professional. Current Shifts: Friday 1PM-9PM or 4-9PM, Saturday 10 AM to 6PM and Sunday 8AM to 4PM On Call Who We Are: Kainos Home and Training Center is a ...

Catholic Charities

Direct Service Worker

Somers, CT · On-site

$19.52 - $20.02/hr

POSITION SUMMARY A Direct Support Worker is responsible for assisting in the coordination of residential services and providing care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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All JobsDirect Service Jobs

Direct Service information

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How much do direct service jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct service in the United States is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Direct Service vs Direct Support Professional?

AspectDirect ServiceDirect Support Professional
CredentialsVaries by industry; often includes certifications or training specific to the service areaTypically requires certifications like CPR, First Aid, and specialized training in supporting individuals with disabilities
Work EnvironmentSettings such as healthcare, social services, or community programsResidential facilities, community homes, or day programs supporting individuals with disabilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across healthcare, social services, and community organizationsCommonly used in disability services, mental health, and social support agencies
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing roles that involve providing direct assistance to clients or patientsIndividuals seeking roles supporting individuals with disabilities or mental health needs

While both roles involve providing direct assistance, 'Direct Service' is a broad term used across various industries, whereas 'Direct Support Professional' specifically refers to supporting individuals with disabilities or mental health conditions in community or residential settings.

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

To thrive as a Direct Service professional, you need a background in social services or human services, strong interpersonal skills, and often a relevant degree or certification depending on the population served. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and possibly crisis intervention certifications is typical. Empathy, active listening, and problem-solving abilities help you build trust and respond effectively to client needs. These skills are crucial for supporting clients in achieving their goals and ensuring compliance with organizational and legal standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in direct service roles, and how can they be managed effectively?

Direct Service professionals often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, addressing complex client needs, and navigating emotional or stressful situations. To handle these effectively, it's important to practice strong organizational skills, maintain clear boundaries, and seek regular supervision or peer support. Many organizations also offer ongoing training and professional development to help staff build resilience and stay current with best practices. Collaboration with colleagues and utilizing available resources within the team can also greatly enhance your ability to serve clients effectively.

Is direct service a good career?

Direct service careers involve providing support and assistance to individuals or communities, often in social work, healthcare, or community programs. These roles can be rewarding for those interested in helping others, but they may also involve emotional challenges and require strong communication and problem-solving skills. Job stability and advancement depend on education, experience, and certifications such as CPR or social work licenses.

What is a direct service career?

A direct service career involves working directly with clients or the public to provide support, assistance, or services. Common roles include social workers, healthcare providers, and counselors, often requiring strong communication skills and relevant certifications. These jobs typically involve face-to-face interaction and focus on meeting individuals' immediate needs.
More about Direct Service jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Service jobs? The most popular types of Direct Service jobs are:
What states have the most Direct Service jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Service jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Direct Service jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Service jobs are:
Direct Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Service job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,863 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Direct Service Worker

Advocates

Marlborough, MA

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Starting Rate: $18.50/hour

Schedule: Tuesday through Saturday 2pm-10pm

 

Come join the Advocates team as a Direct Service Worker! In this entry-level role, you will support individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges. 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 residents, following individualized plans to increase independence and achieve goals. You will also be responsible for medication management, assisting with finances, and helping residents integrate into the community. 

Who We Are

At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges. 

We’re a nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.   

At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive. 


High School Diploma/GED
  • Participate in the development of treatment plans and attend other treatment meetings, including weekly staff meetings.
  • Document progress towards treatment plans.
  • Perform interventions with clients that address their identified goals and result in skill development.
  • Provide linkage with other program staff and other service providers.
  • Communicate program participant’s progress, mental status, and any changes in daily notes.
  • Provide ongoing support, guidance, role modeling and supervision to clients.
  • Identify and address community integration issues for clients with supervisor’s direction.
  • Monitor and document medication administration.
  • Ensure a clean, safe and home-like environment for clients.
  • Remain alert at all times throughout scheduled work shift.
  • Ensure all paperwork, reports, trainings are up to date and completed within the Divisions expected timelines
  • Attend and actively participate in core training and maintain certification of required trainings (CPR/First Aid, Crisis Management, MAP).
  • Provide crisis intervention and access emergency services as needed.

  • Bachelor’s Degree; or High School Diploma or equivalent degree and one year of related experience.
  • Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to utilize basic computer applications.
  • Desire to thrive in a fast-paced, client-centered, team-oriented environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.
  • Must hold a valid driver's license, have access to an operational and insured vehicle and be willing to use it to transport clients.
  • Strongly prefer a candidate that will have a demonstrated understanding of and competence in serving culturally diverse populations.

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.

 

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