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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Delaware

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Delaware is $16.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, including positions such as residential support staff, community habilitation workers, and behavioral support specialists. These jobs typically involve working in group homes, community agencies, or healthcare settings and often require skills in communication, caregiving, and behavior management.

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.

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.

Is a direct support professional a good career?

A direct support professional (DSP) provides assistance to individuals with disabilities, often working in community or residential settings. It offers opportunities for meaningful work, skill development, and job stability, especially with certifications like CPR and first aid. The role typically involves flexible hours and requires strong communication and patience.

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.

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 pay rates, with some states or cities offering premium wages for experienced DSPs. Overall, salaries vary widely based on location and qualifications, but urban centers often provide higher compensation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, and 39% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,900 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL-HOURLY

Resources for Human Development

New Castle, DE • On-site

$16/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago


Resources For Human Development rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Behavioral Health ResidentialMake a Difference Every Day

At RHD, one of Delaware’s largest nonprofit human services organizations, we are committed to helping individuals live healthy, meaningful, and independent lives. Through collaboration with community partners, healthcare providers, and government agencies, we provide essential services to some of the state's most vulnerable populations.

We are seeking compassionate, dedicated, and reliable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our Behavioral Health Residential team. If you are passionate about helping others, building meaningful relationships, and supporting individuals in achieving their goals, this may be the perfect opportunity for you.


Position Summary

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is an essential member of the interdisciplinary care team, providing direct support to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health challenges. The DSP helps individuals develop life skills, maintain their health and safety, increase independence, and participate fully in their communities.

Working collaboratively with clinical and residential staff, the DSP provides person-centered care and support while promoting dignity, recovery, wellness, and self-determination. Through compassion, encouragement, and advocacy, the DSP helps individuals achieve their fullest potential and improve their quality of life.


Key ResponsibilitiesDirect Care & Daily Living Support
  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
    • Personal hygiene and grooming
    • Meal preparation and nutrition
    • Laundry and housekeeping
    • Daily routines and self-care activities
  • Support individuals in developing and maintaining independent living skills.
  • Assist with medication routines in accordance with agency policies and procedures.
  • Promote healthy habits, wellness, and personal responsibility.
Community Engagement & Skill Building
  • Encourage individuals to participate in community, recreational, educational, and social activities.
  • Support individuals in developing meaningful relationships and community connections.
  • Provide guidance and supervision to build confidence, independence, and life skills.
  • Model positive behavior, hope, optimism, and encouragement.
Behavioral Health & Crisis Support
  • Monitor for signs of crisis or potential behavioral concerns.
  • Respond appropriately to crisis situations using approved interventions and best practices.
  • Follow agency policies regarding safety, emergency response, and incident reporting.
  • Maintain a calm, supportive approach when assisting individuals during challenging situations.
Health, Safety & Well-Being
  • Help maintain a safe, clean, and supportive residential environment.
  • Observe changes in physical, emotional, or behavioral health and report concerns appropriately.
  • Assist in ensuring the overall safety and well-being of individuals receiving services.
  • Uphold individual rights, dignity, and confidentiality at all times.
Documentation & Compliance
  • Complete accurate and timely documentation related to services provided.
  • Document activities, progress, observations, and incidents in accordance with agency standards.
  • Maintain confidentiality and comply with all HIPAA regulations.
  • Follow organizational policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.
Team Collaboration
  • Work collaboratively with supervisors, nurses, clinicians, family members, and interdisciplinary team members.
  • Participate in team meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
  • Support a culture of teamwork, respect, and excellent service.

QualificationsRequired
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Valid Delaware Driver’s License.
  • Minimum three (3) years of acceptable driving history.
  • Ability to meet organizational driving requirements.
Preferred
  • Experience supporting individuals with:
    • Behavioral health challenges
    • Intellectual and developmental disabilities
    • Mental health conditions
    • Residential or human services programs
Additional Skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building abilities.
  • Strong organizational and follow-up skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Basic computer skills; experience with Microsoft Office is a plus.
  • Commitment to person-centered and recovery-oriented care.

What Makes a Great DSP?

Successful candidates are:

  • Compassionate and empathetic
  • Dependable and professional
  • Patient and encouraging
  • Strong communicators
  • Team-oriented and collaborative
  • Adaptable and solution-focused
  • Passionate about helping others succeed

Working Conditions

This position may include:

  • Day, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts
  • Community outings and transportation of individuals served
  • Residential and community-based work settings
  • Active engagement throughout the workday
  • Responding to behavioral health or crisis situations as needed

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to:

  • Stand and walk for extended periods
  • Bend, stoop, kneel, and reach frequently
  • Assist with daily living activities and mobility support
  • Lift, carry, push, and pull as required
  • Safely operate a motor vehicle
  • Respond appropriately in emergency situations
  • Participate in approved crisis intervention techniques when necessary

Why Join RHD?

When you join RHD, you become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening communities. We value:

  • Compassion
  • Respect
  • Inclusion
  • Teamwork
  • Recovery and Wellness
  • Personal and Professional Growth

As a Direct Support Professional, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day while helping individuals live more independent, fulfilling lives.

Join our team and help create opportunities for growth, recovery, and success.


Equal Opportunity Employer

RHD and its affiliated organizations are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.



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