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

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Direct Support Assistant information

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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 (DSP)

Boonville, NY • On-site

Upstate Cerebral Palsy
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

$21.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible to implement each individualized plan, attend to personal care needs, oversee the health, safety and well-being of the people we support, keep nurses advised, participate in Agency activities, transport and accompany people we support on activities in the community, assist in daily housekeeping and other facility-related duties and maintain documentation in either or both the residential and/or day habilitation / community habilitation/ school age program site.

Join the Upstate Caring Partners Team as a Direct Support Professional

Upstate Caring Partners is looking for energetic and motivated staff to work with individuals with disabilities to help them achieve their goals!

  • The DSP provides care, support, and assists residents with activities of daily living.
  • Full-time, part-time, and weekend only opportunities exist.
  • Valid NYS Driver’s License required.
  • No previous experience needed - we provide paid training!

BENEFITS

Our work environment provides the opportunity to grow and learn in a fast-paced atmosphere.  We offer competitive benefits and salary to include a low-cost individual health insurance plan, dollar for dollar retirement match (up to 7%), life insurance, voluntary benefits and generous paid time off. 

  • Comprehensive Health/Dental/Vision
  • Direct Deposit
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Retirement Plan 403(b)
  • Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Generous PTO Plans (Sick, Vacation and Employee Leave) 
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Service Awards
  • Employee Appreciation Events
  • Employee Discounts

Upstate Caring Partners is the premier provider of direct-care services and programs in Central New York for individuals of all abilities and their families.  If you believe in empowering people, Upstate Caring Partners is an excellent place to start or grow your career.

Please visit our careers website to access the full job description located within the job posting. 

upstatecpjobs.org

To access a copy of the job description Click Here - DSP Level II