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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Bothell, WA

Direct Support Professional

Everett, WA · On-site

$21 - $22.95/hr

Sunrise Services, INC. is seeking Direct Support Professionals for our Supported Living Program!We ... The right DSP can make a meaningful difference in their safety, progress, and quality of life.

Direct Support Professional

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22.50 - $23.05/hr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Direct Support Professional to provide compassionate care and support for clients with developmental disabilities residing in a home in North Seattle.

Direct Support Professional

Bothell, WA · On-site

$22.50 - $23.05/hr

Direct Support Professional 1:1 (Community Inclusion Focus) Company: Parkview Supported Living Services Position: Full and/or Part-time (20-40 hours/week) Location: South King County (Covington ...

Support participants with developmental goals like budgeting, exercise, and nutrition You'll assist ... Six months of experience in human services, direct care, or care coordination preferred * Skills:

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Bothell, WA salary details

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Bothell, WA is $18.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.62 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 Bothell, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Bothell, WA are:

What cities near Bothell, WA are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Bothell, WA with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Bothell, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,864 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Spokane - Crisis Diversion Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Alpha Supported Living Services

Everett, WA

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Who we are

We are Alpha Supported Living Services, a non-profit organization, we provide residential and community-based services to adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Our primary objective at Alpha is to enhance the quality of life for each of our clients by aiding them in learning, personal development, and fostering increased independence. Since 1974, we've been dedicated to offering supported living, group home, community inclusion, and representative payee services, expanding our reach across King, Snohomish, and Spokane counties in Washington State. At Alpha, our commitment lies in treating every client with utmost dignity and respect while also valuing and nurturing the abilities of our employees to foster their professional growth.

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Crisis Diversion Program Manager, Crisis Diversion Direct Support Professionals are responsible for providing support to program participants (including those identified as experiencing a physical or behavioral health crisis) that meets their needs, provides opportunities for community integration, and creates a nurturing, safe, and healthful living environment that will help them stabilize and prepare for transition into a long-term community placement. Crisis Diversion Direct Support Professionals will frequently interact with program participants and must be familiar with the Residential Service Guidelines issued by the Developmental Disabilities Administration. At all times, Crisis Diversion Direct Support Professionals will seek to act in accord with the principles and values expressed in the guidelines and uphold the agency mission: “to serve individuals with developmental disabilities by providing accessible residential and other support services that will maximize each person’s quality of life.” Crisis Diversion Direct Support Professionals will work the shift assigned by the Crisis Diversion Program Manager.

Day-to-Day

  • Provide Support Services: Deliver instruction and support aligned with each participant’s Crisis Services Treatment Plan to achieve discharge goals.
  • Daily Assistance: Help participants with personal hygiene, meal preparation, housekeeping, shopping, and monitoring health needs, including medication supervision.
  • Community Access: Support participants in accessing outings of their choosing, provide transportation using agency vehicles, assist with public transportation, or arrange other transportation as needed.
  • Activity Facilitation: Plan and lead at least four hours of daily activities for Diversion Program participants.
  • Documentation and Records: Complete required written and digital records, including medication logs, shift notes, behavior tracking, incident reports, financial records, and timekeeping.
  • Medical Support: Assist with medical needs such as vital sign monitoring, transfers, tube feeding, and use of equipment like hoyer lifts, shower chairs, and suction machines.
  • Behavioral Support: Provide positive behavior support to help participants achieve goals and reduce target behaviors.
  • Collaboration: Participate in developing and implementing Crisis Services Treatment Plans.
  • Professional Relationships: Maintain effective working relationships with participants, families, guardians, and other service providers.

Training and certification Requirements

  • Mandatory Training:
    • Complete 12 hours of DDA/DSHS-approved continuing education annually.
    • Training on bloodborne pathogens and mandated reporting.
    • Trauma-informed practices and crisis prevention/intervention training (e.g., CPI, Mandt, Right Response).
  • Initial Training:
    • Six hours of DSHS-approved training before starting work.
    • Additional six hours of client-specific training within 90 days of hire.
  • Ongoing Training:
    • Two hours of dual-diagnosis training annually.
    • Six hours of client-specific training annually addressing topics like coping skills, intellectual disabilities, psychiatric conditions, and more.
  • Licenses and Certifications:
    • Active DOH license (NAR, NAC, or HCA).
    • Valid Washington State driver’s license.
    • Food Handler’s Permit (if applicable).
    • Current First Aid and CPR certification.

    Who we are looking for

    • A DSP who treats participants with dignity and consideration, promoting and safeguarding clients' ability to make decisions and freely exercise their rights
    • Knowledge of personal care, emotional support, and medical administrations practices
    • Physically able to support clients with personal care such as showering, toileting, feeding, dressing, and transferring client
    • Ability to motivate, develop, and provide instructional support to clients 
    • Basic ability to use laptops, desktop, or tablet to complete computer tasks

    Job Requirements 

    • At least 18 years of age
    • A High School Diploma or GED
    • Have a Washington State Driver’s license able to be covered on Alpha Supported Living Services’ automobile insurance plan based upon driving record
    • Background inquiry clearance from an authorized state agency

    Starting Wage: 

    $26.20/hr

    Wage Scale:

    $26.20-$31.80/hr

    This position has a starting rate of $26.20 per hour and can earn up to $31.80 per hour through annual step increases. Higher starting rate may be available for applicants with qualifying experience and required certifications.

    Employees in this position are members of a bargaining unit represented by SEIU. Wages and benefits are currently under negotiation and may change depending upon the results of the collective bargaining process. 

    Benefits:

    Benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision (for those working 30+ hours), Retirement Plan (company match after 2 years), Life Insurance, Tuition Savings Program, and Tuition Reimbursement. Employees working 34 or more hours a week are eligible for PTO accrual.