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Direct Support Professional Caregiver Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ

Direct Support Professional

Clifton, NJ ยท On-site

$17 - $24/hr

As a Direct Support Professional, you will work one-on-one with individuals in both home and ... Prior caregiving, DSP, or human services experience preferred but not required * CPR/First Aid ...

Direct Support Professional

Ridgewood, NJ ยท On-site

$17 - $24/hr

As a Direct Support Professional, you will work one-on-one with individuals in both home and ... Prior caregiving, DSP, or human services experience preferred but not required * CPR/First Aid ...

Direct Support Professional

Harrison, NJ ยท On-site

$19.61 - $20/hr

Direct Support Professional Location: Mullica Hill, NJ Employment Type: Onsite Department: Adult ... caregiver? Do you want to make a difference in the lives of autistic, intellectually, and ...

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Direct Support Professional Caregiver information

See Ridgewood, NJ salary details

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional caregiver in Ridgewood, NJ is $15.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $17.50 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.

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:

What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Direct Support Professional Caregiver jobs?

Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Direct Support Professional Caregiver job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Caregiver job openings in Ridgewood, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,412 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional Caregiver

Assurance Care & Support Services Inc

West Orange, NJ โ€ข On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Retirement

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible schedule

Responsibilities:
- Provide One on One direct support and assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs
- Assist with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming
- Help with meal preparation and feeding
- Perform light housekeeping tasks such as cleaning and laundry
- Provide transportation to appointments, errands, and community activities
- Monitor and document individuals' progress and behavior
- Assist with medication administration as needed
- Implement individualized care plans and follow specific instructions for each individual
Skills:
- Experience in home care or senior care is preferred
- Knowledge of meal preparation and nutrition guidelines
- Ability to provide direct support to individuals with disabilities or special needs
- Familiarity with dementia care techniques and strategies
- First aid and CPR certification is a plus
- Ability to take vital signs and monitor health status of individuals
- Strong communication skills to effectively interact with individuals, their families, and other healthcare professionals
Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be requested to perform other duties as assigned.
Please submit your resume highlighting your relevant experience in direct support or caregiving roles. We look forward to reviewing your application!