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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in California

Momentum

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $18.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Employer-Sponsored Life Insurance Direct Support Professional (DSP) Responsibilities: * Assist clients with personal care tasks, including bathing, grooming, and dressing * Help clients with ...

Kings View

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Atwater, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $20.69/hr

Description Direct Support Professional (DSP) I Location: Atwater, CA Position Type: Full-Time, Benefited | Non-Exempt Salary Range: $19.50 - $20.69 per hour Join Our Mission At Kings View, every ...

Kings View

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Atwater, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $20.69/hr

Description Direct Support Professional (DSP) I Location: Atwater, CA Position Type: Full-Time, Benefited | Non-Exempt Salary Range: $19.50 - $20.69 per hour Join Our Mission At Kings View, every ...

PALS, Inc.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DSPs support clients in daily living activities ...

Pals Inc

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Carpinteria, CA

$15 - $18.50/hr

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DSPs support clients in daily living activities ...

ETTA

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

ETTA (non-profit)Supporting Adults with Intellectual and Developmental DisabilitiesETTA's Supported Living Services (SLS) Department is Seeking:→ Direct Support Professionals (DSP)→ Caregivers→ ...

Nextaff

Direct Support Professional [DSP]

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - $19/ hr | Weekly Pay | Flexible Schedule Looking for meaningful work with flexibility? We're hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support individuals with ...

Pals Inc

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

About the Role The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DSPs support clients in daily living ...

Pals Inc

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DSPs support clients in daily living activities ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in California

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See California salary details

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in California is $16.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional (DSP)?

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a caregiver who assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. DSPs help with personal care, skill development, community involvement, and fostering independence. Their work may include assisting with bathing, meal preparation, transportation, and providing emotional support. DSPs play a vital role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and quality of life for those they support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support professional (DSP), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and an understanding of developmental disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, medication administration, and CPR/First Aid certifications are often required. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities distinguish exceptional DSPs. These skills ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of individuals receiving support, fostering a positive and empowering environment.

What are some common challenges faced by direct support professionals (DSPs) and how can they be managed?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable behaviors, balancing the needs of multiple clients, and maintaining clear communication with both clients and their families. Building strong relationships, utilizing de-escalation techniques, and participating in ongoing training can help DSPs navigate these situations effectively. Team collaboration and regular support from supervisors also play a vital role in overcoming daily hurdles and ensuring high-quality care.

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

AspectDirect Support Professional DspPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires CPR, First Aid, and state-specific trainingMay require similar certifications, but less frequently mandated
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProvides personal care in private homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryHuman services agencies, non-profits, government programsHome healthcare agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Professionals typically work with people with disabilities in community or residential settings, requiring specific certifications. Personal Care Assistants often work in private homes, focusing on personal hygiene and daily living tasks, with slightly different certification requirements. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations and career paths in the caregiving industry.

Is being a direct support professional a stressful job?

Being a direct support professional can be stressful due to the physical and emotional demands of assisting individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging behaviors, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find it rewarding and develop coping strategies to manage stress effectively.

What jobs can I get with a direct support professional certification?

A direct support professional (DSP) certification qualifies individuals for roles providing assistance to people with disabilities, such as direct support worker, behavioral technician, residential care aide, or personal care assistant. These jobs typically involve helping clients with daily activities, implementing care plans, and supporting independence in community or residential settings. Certification often enhances employment prospects and may be required by employers or state regulations.

Where do direct support professionals get paid the most?

Direct Support Professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services, such as certain metropolitan areas. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence salary levels, with some states or cities offering premium pay for specialized skills or longer tenure.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in California?

For Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities in California with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,428 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Bloomfield West

Orange, CA • On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Orange, California

At Bloomfield West, we are dedicated to providing exceptional, skilled nursing care with compassion and expertise, enhancing the well-being and quality of life for our residents. We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our Orange, California location.

About the Role

As a Direct Support Professional, you will work in our Orange, California facility providing support to individuals with developmental disabilities. You will promote their health, safety, and well-being, and serve as an advocate for our clients. This is a full-time position, with shifts available from 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support individuals with daily living activities, including bathroom needs, dressing, and meal preparation

  • Assist with daily living and vocational activities

  • Participate in client assessments, planning, and evaluation processes

  • Input client notes into computer programs and communicate with supervisors as necessary

  • Attend regular staff meetings and participate in continuing education and training

  • Perform other related duties and assignments as required

Requirements

  • 1 year of experience supporting adults with developmental disabilities (preferred)

  • Must be at least 21 years of age

  • Must have a California Driver's License

  • Must successfully pass all pre-employment requirements, including a background check

  • Direct Support Professional Certificate Year 1 & Year 2 (Preferred or willing to obtain within the first 6 months of hire)

  • Must have First Aid / CPR certification

  • Ability to lift 50lbs and work both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions

What We Offer

  • Competitive hourly rate of $18-$23

  • Full benefits

  • A passion-driven work environment where you can make a positive impact in the lives of others

How to Apply

If you share our mission, vision, and core values, and are looking for a rewarding career, please apply to this Direct Support Professional (DSP) role. We encourage you to come dressed in business casual attire to your interview.

We Care

Please apply to this role by clicking the "Apply" button. We look forward to hearing from you!