ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

RCIL

Direct Support Professional

Utica, NY · On-site

$18.20/hr

Provide support with activities such as: cooking, cleaning, shopping, money management, personal hygiene and social activities. * Assist with physical transfer within the home or to vehicle.

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsDirect Support JobsDirect Support Assistant JobsDirect Support Assistant Jobs in Rome, NY

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.

Senior Direct Support Professional

East Syracuse, NY • On-site

Community options
See more jobs at Community optionsexternal

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Community Options rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Community Options, Inc. is a national non-profit agency providing services to individuals with disabilities in 12 states.
We are looking for Senior Direct Support Professionals in Syracuse, NY. The Senior Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for providing person-centered care tailored to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will also support a team with day-to-day operations and challenges as a team leader for an assigned location. The shift for this position is 3PM-11PM.
Starting pay is $18.00/hour
Responsibilities
  • Provide direct care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities tailored to their Individual Support Plan (ISP)/Person Centered Plan (PCP)
  • Assist with training team members to support programmatic initiatives, goals, daily routines, and the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Assist with daily routines including cleaning, cooking established meal plans, feeding, medication administration, and maintaining personal hygiene
  • Monitor the health and medical needs of individuals and immediately report any concerns
  • Drive individuals to medical appointments and activities in the community
  • Assist with the learning and development of independent and community-based skills
  • Ensure program documentation and billable records are completed accurately and timely
  • Participate with individuals in community, social, and recreational activities
  • Build a support network for individuals by developing and maintaining relationships with community members, businesses, and families
  • Ensure work locations and vehicles are clean, well maintained, and stocked with necessary supplies including groceries, medications, and cleaning supplies
  • Employees must cooperate with the licensee and department staff in any inspection, inquiry or investigation
  • Additional tasks and responsibilities may be assigned

Minimum Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Complete all state and agency required training per state guidelines
  • Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
  • Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Ability to work individually and with a team to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Ability to establish a comfortable and supportive relationship with individuals receiving supports
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and remain calm in crisis situations
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent time management skills

Working Conditions
  • Work in residential programs, day programs, and in the community
  • Schedule may change due to business needs and may include evening and weekend hours
  • Overtime may be required due to business needs
  • Frequent lifting, stretching, and other physical exertion may be required
  • May be required to lift or move 25+ pounds
  • May assist with wheelchair transfer of non-ambulatory participants
  • May be exposed to various medical conditions and communicable diseases

Why Community Options?
  • Competitive Insurance Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • Paid Holidays-Including a Birthday Holiday
  • Generous PTO
  • Employee Incentive & Discount Programs
  • 403b Retirement Plan
  • Incredible career growth opportunities

Send resume to: Resumes-SR@comop.org
Community Options is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Community Options employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply