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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Bennington, VT

Direct Support Professional

Bennington, VT

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Location: Vermont Pay: Competitive hourly rate (based on experience) Schedule: Full-time, Part-time, and Per Diem opportunities available Position Overview ATC ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Bennington, VT salary details

$9

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Bennington, VT is $15.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $16.92 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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Bennington, VT look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Bennington, VT are:

What cities near Bennington, VT are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Bennington, VT with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Bennington, VT 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 $32,664 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

North Adams, MA

Amergis Healthcare Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 10K+ employees

$20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Amergis Healthcare Staffing is partnered with a respected facility in Western Massachusetts that is currently seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support individuals in a group home setting on a full-time or part-time basis.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Locations: Adams, North Adams, Clarksburg, Pittsfield, Williamstown, West Stockbridge 
Pay: $20/hr 
Schedule: Full-time & part-time, all shifts
Contract: 13 weeks to start, strong likelihood of extension
Setting: Group Home

About the Role Amergis Healthcare Staffing is partnering with a respected Western MA facility seeking compassionate DSPs to support individuals with disabilities in a group home environment. This is a hands-on, care-focused position involving daily living support and meaningful engagement.

What You’ll Do

  • Provide personal care, including bathing, dressing, toileting, and hygiene
  • Assist with meal prep and feeding
  • Maintain a clean, safe home through routine housekeeping
  • Support individuals with ADLs and personal goals
  • Encourage independence and community involvement
  • Participate in recreational and community activities
  • Document services and follow care plans

What You Need

  • 18+ years old
  • Reliable transportation
  • HS diploma/GED or 1+ year of relevant experience
  • Comfortable with hands-on personal care and toileting support

If you’d like more details or want to discuss openings, feel free to reach out.

Amergis Healthcare Recruiter
Travis O'Brien
781-400-7119
Trobrien@amergis.com

Benefits
At Amergis, we firmly believe that our employees are the heartbeat of our organization and we are happy to offer the following benefits:
  • Competitive pay & weekly paychecks
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) savings plan
  • Awards and recognition programs 
*Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status. 

About Amergis
Amergis, formerly known as Maxim Healthcare Staffing, has served our clients and communities by connecting people to the work that matters since 1988. We provide meaningful opportunities to our extensive network of healthcare and school-based professionals, ready to work in any hospital, government facility, or school. Through partnership and innovation, Amergis creates unmatched staffing experiences to deliver the best workforce solutions.  

Amergis is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.