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Direct Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We deliver this commitment through therapeutic recreation, employment support, community integration, education, and a comprehensive suite of behavioral health services. Headquartered in Carbondale ...

Homewatch CareGivers offers the comprehensive home care services and we believe that exceptional training means a more rewarding experience for you and better care for clients. Homewatch CareGivers ...

We deliver this commitment through therapeutic recreation, employment support, community integration, education, and a comprehensive suite of behavioral health services. Headquartered in Carbondale ...

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Direct Service information

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How much do direct service jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 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 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 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.

What are direct service jobs?

Direct service jobs are roles that involve working directly with clients or individuals to provide assistance, support, or care. These positions can be found in various fields such as social work, healthcare, education, and community services. Direct service professionals often help people meet their basic needs, navigate systems, and improve their quality of life. Examples include case managers, social workers, counselors, and home health aides.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Direct Service job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,863 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

LHRC-Direct Service Worker

LA Health and Rehab, Inc.

Baton Rouge, LA โ€ข On-site

$9/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

LHRC is looking for Direct Service Workers for our Residential Treatment Center!
DIRECT SERVICE WORKER
Residential Treatment Center
4p-12a
Job Title: Direct Service Worker
Reports To: Program Director
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Division: Direct Care
FUNCTION: This position has the responsibility of being the primary staff for clients. As such the direct care staff person is responsible for providing the prescribed program of Active Treatment to each client based on the Individual Plan-of-Care. This employee provides the actual training, and also provides the day to day supervision, guidance, and support to clients, which may be required to facilitate each client's individual learning and development. This employee works under the direction of the Program Director.
JOB REQUIREMENTS: This position requires a high school diploma or a GED certificate. Additionally persons must be at least 23 years of age, but no person shall be employed who is less than 18 years of age.
An employee who fills this position must participate in all training, must work when assigned to work by the Program Director, and must follow the rules and regulations of LHRC. Additionally, direct care staff persons must follow all directions, procedures, and guidelines for the provision of individual program of clients.
PRINCIPLE ACTIVITIES:
NOTE: These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various types or work performed in positions allocated to this class. The absence of specific statement of duties doesn't not exclude those tasks from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment of the position.
  • Implement through training, individual client's Individual Plan of Care.
  • Where applicable, implement according to requirement individual client's or group Behavior Management Plan.
  • Where applicable, supervise the self-administration of medication by residents.
  • Be familiar with Direct Care Staff Persons Checklist (see handbook). Assist in developing and implementing Active Treatment.
  • Participate in intake and individualized plan of care and development of same.
  • Provide individual and group counseling under the direction of the Program Director and/or House Manager.
  • Record all accident/incidents occurring on each shift.
  • Inspect living areas for repairs and cleanliness.
  • Be thoroughly familiar with all policies and procedures relative to the residents (discipline, medical emergencies, safety, runaway/elopements).
  • Supervise all activities, events, and functions.
  • Provide necessary transportation.
  • Restrict inappropriate behaviors in residents and assist them is developing alternate appropriate behaviors.
  • Train residents in good personal habits, e.g. grooming, eating, hygiene.
  • Supervise, participate in, and train residents in cooking, meal planning, shopping, and all household maintenance activities.
  • Supervise, guide, train, participate, and encourage participation in a variety of recreational/leisure-time activities, social skills, and development activities.
  • Ability to transport up to 30 pounds.
  • Other duties as assigned by Program Director, House Manager or his/her designee.