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Direct Support Assistant Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Supervise, coach, and assist our individuals in achieving their goals for daily living skills, such ... Direct Support Professional position is located in Washington, CT. Devereux Connecticut touches the ...

Direct Support Floater Pay Rate: $21 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater ... * Assist with personal care, including bathing, toileting, and medication reminders as needed

Direct Support Floater Pay Rate: $21 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater ... * Assist with personal care, including bathing, toileting, and medication reminders as needed

Direct Support Floater Pay Rate: $21 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater ... * Assist with personal care, including bathing, toileting, and medication reminders as needed

Direct Support Floater Pay Rate: $21 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater ... * Assist with personal care, including bathing, toileting, and medication reminders as needed

Direct Support Floater Pay Rate: $21 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater ... * Assist with personal care, including bathing, toileting, and medication reminders as needed

Direct Support Floater Pay Rate: $21 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater ... * Assist with personal care, including bathing, toileting, and medication reminders as needed

Direct Support Floater Pay Rate: $21 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater ... * Assist with personal care, including bathing, toileting, and medication reminders as needed

Direct Support Professional

CT

$15 - $18.50/hr

Supervise, coach, and assist our individuals in achieving their goals for daily living skills, such ... Direct Support Professional position is located in Washington, CT. Devereux Connecticut touches the ...

Direct Support Professional

CT · On-site

$21.50 - $23/hr

Supervise, coach, and assist our individuals in achieving their goals for daily living skills, such ... Direct Support Professional position is located in Washington, CT. Devereux Connecticut touches the ...

Supervise, coach, and assist our individuals in achieving their goals for daily living skills, such ... Direct Support Professional position is located in Washington, CT. Devereux Connecticut touches the ...

Direct Support Professional

New Preston, CT · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Supervise, coach, and assist our individuals in achieving their goals for daily living skills, such ... Direct Support Professional position is located in Washington, CT. Devereux Connecticut touches the ...

Showing results 41-60

Direct Support Assistant information

See Connecticut salary details

$11

$17

$24

How much do direct support assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support assistant in Connecticut is $17.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support assistant?

Direct Support Assistants (DSAs) are professionals who provide care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities or other special needs. Their responsibilities include assisting with daily living activities, facilitating community involvement, and ensuring the health and safety of those they support. DSAs work in various settings such as group homes, day programs, or residential facilities, helping individuals achieve greater independence and quality of life. They also monitor progress, document services provided, and may assist with medication and personal care tasks.

What are some common challenges direct support assistants face when supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, and how can these be managed?

Direct Support Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral outbursts, balancing multiple care needs, and ensuring effective communication with both clients and their families. These situations require patience, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills. Building rapport, utilizing de-escalation techniques, and staying informed about each individual's care plan can help manage these challenges. Regular team meetings and ongoing training also provide valuable support in navigating the complexities of the role.

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

To excel as a Direct Support Assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and an understanding of developmental disabilities. Familiarity with care documentation systems, health and safety protocols, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification are commonly required. Patience, strong communication, and compassion are vital soft skills for supporting individuals' unique needs and fostering trust. These abilities ensure quality care, promote client independence, and create a safe, supportive environment.

What is the difference between Direct Support Assistant vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support AssistantPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized trainingCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized training
Work EnvironmentAssists individuals with disabilities in various settings, including homes and community centersProvides personal care mainly in private homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, healthcare, social servicesHome healthcare agencies, private clients
Job FocusSupporting daily activities, promoting independenceAssisting with personal hygiene, mobility, and daily routines

Both roles involve providing care and support, often requiring similar certifications. However, Direct Support Assistants typically work in community or facility settings supporting individuals with disabilities, while Personal Care Assistants mainly assist clients in personal hygiene and daily tasks within private homes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit for their skills and career goals.

How do you become a certified direct support assistant?

To become a certified direct support assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete relevant training programs that cover topics like person-centered planning and health and safety. Certification requirements vary by state or employer but often include passing a competency exam and maintaining ongoing training or continuing education. Some positions may also require background checks and CPR certification.

Is being a direct support assistant a stressful job?

Being a direct support assistant can be stressful due to the emotional and physical demands of helping individuals with disabilities or special needs. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle unpredictable situations, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find the role rewarding and manageable with proper training and support.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support jobs in Connecticut?

The most popular types of Direct Support jobs in Connecticut are:

What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Direct Support Assistant jobs?

Cities in Connecticut with the most Direct Support Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Assistant job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,787 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Burlington, CT • On-site

Gilead Community Services
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 51 - 200 employees

$20.39/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Make a Meaningful Difference Every Day
At Oak Hill, you'll do more than provide care. You'll help people live with greater independence, dignity, and connection to their communities.
We're seeking compassionate, dependable individuals to join our team as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). In this role, you'll provide person-centered support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential group home setting.
Whether you're an experienced DSP, CNA, caregiver, or someone looking to begin a rewarding career helping others, we encourage you to apply.
Description
Location: Burlington, CT
Schedule: Oak Hill Substitutes work on a Per-Diem (as needed) basis. Substitute DSPs are required to work a minimum of 15 hours per month.
Compensation: $20.39/hour (based on assigned shift)
Union Position | Overtime Eligible
What You'll Do
As a Direct Support Professional, you'll support individuals in living healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling lives by:
Supporting Daily Living Activities
Assisting with personal care, grooming, bathing, dressing, and hygiene needs, based on individual preferences and support plans.
Providing assistance with continence care as needed.
Encouraging independence and skill development whenever possible.
Supporting Health and Wellness
Monitoring and documenting health-related information, including vital signs when required.
Administering medications and maintaining accurate medication records in accordance with training, certification requirements, and nursing directives.
Following individualized health care plans and supporting overall well-being.
Promoting Community Inclusion
Transporting individuals to appointments, recreational activities, community events, and other destinations using agency vehicles.
Encouraging participation in community life, social opportunities, and personal interests.
Assisting with Nutrition and Mealtime Support
Preparing meals and snacks according to menus, dietary requirements, and personal preferences.
Providing support during meals as needed.
Providing Physical Support
Assisting individuals with mobility and transfers using approved techniques, adaptive equipment, lift systems, ramps, and wheelchair securement devices as required.
Maintaining Documentation and Compliance
Accurately documenting daily activities, health information, progress notes, incidents, and medication administration in the electronic health record (EHR).
Following all applicable Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and regulatory requirements.
Responding to Emergencies and Behavioral Needs
Following established emergency procedures and safety protocols.
Implementing behavioral support strategies and documenting related activities.
Applying trained intervention techniques and administering First Aid/CPR when required.
Working as a Team
Communicating effectively with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, family members, and other stakeholders.
Participating in required meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development.
What You'll Bring
Required Qualifications
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license with the ability to transport individuals in agency vehicles.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks, fingerprinting, and pre-employment health screenings.
• Ability to complete required training programs and maintain necessary certifications.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and professional work environment in accordance with Oak Hill policies.
• Commitment to continuity of care, including an occasional need to stay beyond a scheduled shift until coverage is in place.
Preferred Qualifications
• Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), caregiver, home health aide, behavioral health technician, or in a related human services role.
• Experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
No experience? We provide paid training and support to help you succeed.
You'll Thrive in This Role If You...
Lead with Compassion
You build trust through patience, empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help others achieve their goals.
Adapt and Problem-Solve
You enjoy variety, remain flexible when situations change, and approach challenges with curiosity and a solutions-focused mindset.
Find Purpose in Helping Others
You are motivated by meaningful work and take pride in making a positive impact in someone's life every day.
Why Join Oak Hill?
For more than 130 years, Oak Hill has been empowering people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive. As Connecticut's largest private provider of services for people with disabilities, we are committed to creating opportunities for independence, inclusion, health, and dignity.
When you join Oak Hill, you'll enjoy:
• Paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire.
• Career mobility opportunities after six months, including transfers and additional shift opportunities.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, personal days, and holidays.
• Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with an annual Oak Hill contribution equal to 9.5% of eligible gross earnings, regardless of employee contribution.
• Employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance options, including employer-paid coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement and career development opportunities.
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs.
• A mission-driven culture where your work truly matters
Oak Hill is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and individuals we serve. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process.
We support equality for and advancement of all people, based on their qualifications and actions alone, without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.
Our company is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, please reach out to total.rewards@oakhillct.org. We will make every effort to accommodate your needs in accordance with applicable laws and our commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.