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Direct Support Professional Caregiver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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The Direct Support Professional Caregiver provides compassionate and individualized care to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Adult Day Program setting. Working primarily ...

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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 1, 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 are Direct Support Professional Caregivers?

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 are some common challenges faced by Direct Support Professional Caregivers, and how can they be managed effectively?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Support Professional Caregiver, and why are they important?

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,034 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

ALEGRIA COMMUNITY LIVING

Newark, CA โ€ข On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

URGENTLY Hiring Direct Support Professionals/Caregivers!


Direct Support Professional/Caregiver
Exciting Opportunity!

  • UNIQUE non-profit in a supportive work environment!
  • Small 3 or 4 person homes in beautiful communities.

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver Reports to: Home Administrator and Lead Staff

Hourly Wage: Starting atย $21.00

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver Benefits: Eligible employees are offered:

  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Paid time off
  • HSA employer contribution
  • Life Insurance paid by employer
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Continuous training opportunities and more!

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver Responsibilities:

  • Assist residents in all personal grooming such as bathing, toileting, dressing, medical/ dental needs including transporting clients to medical, dental, social activities, and other appointments.
  • Monitor physical and emotional wellness of residents, immediately report changes in status and maintain files regarding residentsโ€™ health.
  • Prepare meals and store food in compliance with all regulations and program outline and maintain proper sanitation of home and surroundings.
  • Prepare daily documentation of status and changes as related to residentsโ€™ goals.
  • Assist in maintenance of administrative records, resident files, home inventories, and weekly schedules as needed.

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver Job Requirements:

  • Prior experience providing direct care and supervision to persons with special needs preferred.
  • Minimum age 18 and a High school diploma or GED certificate
  • Health screen, TB clearance and fingerprinting
  • Valid and current California driverโ€™s license and clear driving record
  • Ability to lift 75 lbs. (to transfer individuals)

Alegria is an Equal Opportunity Employer.ย Apply Now: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs?clientkey=AC04178F1C34704B0A3B6CF40A19A73B