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Direct Support Assistant Jobs in Rome, NY (NOW HIRING)

lri

Direct Support Professional

Canastota, NY

$19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) $19.50/hour | Full Time | No Mandated Shifts Madison & Onondaga ... Provide personcentered support to individuals with disabilities * Assist with daily living needs ...

Arc Herkimer

Direct Support Professional

Middleville, NY · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Direct Support Professional At Arc Herkimer, company culture is everything! The more we can support ... Provide companionship, assist in emergency situations, and maintain health & wellness Work in a ...

Arc Herkimer

Direct Support Professional

Herkimer, NY · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Direct Support Professional At Arc Herkimer, company culture is everything! The more we can support ... Provide companionship, assist in emergency situations, and maintain health & wellness Work in a ...

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Direct Support Assistant information

See Rome, NY 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 Rome, NY is $17.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $19.33 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 Rome, NY?

The most popular types of Direct Support jobs in Rome, NY are:

What cities near Rome, NY are hiring for Direct Support Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rome, NY with the most Direct Support Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Assistant job openings in Rome, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,614 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Canastota, NY • On-site

Liberty Resources
See more jobs at Liberty Resourcesexternal

$19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP)
$19.50/hour | Full Time | No Mandated Shifts
Madison & Onondaga Counties
Liberty Resources has immediate openings for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who are passionate about supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a Direct Support Professional, you'll help people live healthy, independent, and meaningful lives in their community.
Why You'll Love Being a Direct Support Professional (DSP)
  • Full-time - NO mandated shifts
  • Work in locations across Cazenovia, Canastota, Chittenango, Brewerton, Cicero, Clay, Syracuse, DeWitt, Fayetteville, Manlius, Bridgeport
  • A supportive, family-friendly workplace
  • Paid training and opportunities for career growth
  • Health, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, mileage reimbursement

What You'll Do as a Direct Support Professional
  • Provide person-centered support to individuals with disabilities
  • Assist with daily living needs, personal care, household tasks, and community activities
  • Support hobbies, interests, exercise, and social engagement
  • Promote independence, health, and safety
  • Advocate for individuals to be active, valued community members

What You Need
  • HS diploma or GED (Associate's/Bachelor's or related experience preferred)
  • Valid driver's license and use of personal vehicle to transport individuals

Join Liberty Resources as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) and make a real impact every day. Apply today!
Liberty Resources is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We offer equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, parental status, housing status, source of income, or military status, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local EEO laws.
Welcome to Wholehearted Health!
Liberty Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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