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Direct Support Professional Caregiver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Support Professional Caregiver

Severna Park, MD · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

The Direct Support Professional Caregiver provides compassionate companionship and support to a 40-year-old individual with cerebral palsy. This role involves assisting with daily activities ...

Direct Support Professional (Caregiver)

Bolivar, MO · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Direct Support Professional (Caregiver) Firefly (Supportive Living & Employment Services) Bolivar, Missouri Full Time **No experience necessary! We provide free training!** **We just need your ...

Direct Support Professional (Caregiver) If you are motivated to be a high quality caregiver, Dungarvin has the opportunity for you. Working directly as a home health and companion care provider with ...

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We are seeking a Direct Support Professional Caregiver to join our team! You will assist in the daily care of elderly or disabled individuals. Background checks will be performed. Need a minimum of a ...

Direct Support Professional (Caregiver) If you are motivated to be a high quality caregiver, Dungarvin has the opportunity for you. Working directly as a home health and companion care provider with ...

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Direct Support Professional Caregiver information

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How much do direct support professional caregiver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional caregiver in the United States is $15.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional caregiver?

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Caregivers are trained individuals who assist people with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities in their daily lives. They help clients with personal care, medication management, transportation, meal preparation, and participation in community activities. DSP Caregivers are essential for promoting independence, safety, and a higher quality of life for those they support. Their work often takes place in homes, group residences, or community settings, providing both practical and emotional support.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a direct support professional caregiver?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional Caregiver, you need a foundational understanding of personal care, support strategies for individuals with disabilities, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation systems, basic medical equipment, and sometimes certifications like CPR/First Aid are typically required. Patience, strong communication, empathy, and problem-solving abilities are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety, well-being, and empowerment of clients while maintaining effective and compassionate care.

What challenges do direct support professional caregivers face and how can they be managed?

Direct Support Professional Caregivers often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable behaviors, balancing multiple clients' needs, and maintaining clear boundaries while building supportive relationships. Effective communication, consistent routines, and ongoing training in de-escalation techniques are essential for managing these challenges. Many organizations also provide mentorship, teamwork, and regular check-ins to help staff navigate difficult situations and prevent burnout, fostering a supportive work environment.

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

AspectDirect Support Professional CaregiverPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires CPR, First Aid, and state-specific trainingMay require similar certifications, depending on state regulations
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProvides in-home assistance to elderly or disabled clients
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome healthcare agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Professional Caregivers typically work with people with disabilities in community or residential settings, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide in-home support to elderly or disabled clients. The certifications and work environments overlap, but their focus and settings differ.

More about Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs

What cities are hiring for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs?

Cities with the most Direct Support Professional Caregiver job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs?

The top employers for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs are:

What states have the most Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs are:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Caregiver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,034 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Direct Support Professional Caregiver

Jayne Anderson

Severna Park, MD • On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 14 days ago

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Job description

The Direct Support Professional Caregiver provides compassionate companionship and support to a 40-year-old individual with cerebral palsy. This role involves assisting with daily activities, transportation to medical and recreational appointments, and ensuring a safe and engaging environment. The caregiver works in a private family care setting, supporting mobility needs without heavy lifting and utilizing equipment such as a Hoyer lift and a wheelchair. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:30-2:30pm

Responsibilities

  • Provide companionship and emotional support
  • Assist with personal care tasks as needed
  • Transport to doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions, and community outings
  • Support engagement in activities such as music therapy, cardio drumming, bowling, shopping, and library visits
  • Manage wheelchair mobility
  • Maintain clear and effective communication
  • Monitor safety at all times

Required Qualifications

  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
  • CPR and First Aid certification

Preferred Qualifications

  • 3+ years of caregiving experience
  • Some college education preferred

Company Description

This is a private family looking for direct support