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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Novato, CA

As a Direct Support Professional, you will be a valued member of a mission-driven team that believes in doing good work, for the right reasons, with the right support. You will join our team in one ...

As a Direct Support Professional, you will be a valued member of a mission-driven team that believes in doing good work, for the right reasons, with the right support. You will join our team in one ...

As a Direct Support Professional, you will be a valued member of a mission-driven team that believes in doing good work, for the right reasons, with the right support. You will join our team in one ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Novato, CA salary details

$11

$19

$24

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Novato, CA is $19.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $20.62 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 are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Novato, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Novato, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Novato, CA are:

What cities near Novato, CA are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Novato, CA with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Novato, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,767 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) / Caregiver

Dungarvin

Rohnert Park, CA • On-site

$23.50 - $26.20/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Dungarvin rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 246 rated social care providers


Job description

Company Description

Part-Time | Monday-Friday | 8:30 AM-3:00 PM | 32.5 Hours/Week
$23.50/hour | Benefits Eligible | Evenings & Weekends Off | Paid Training

Who We Are: 

At Dungarvin, we are more than a provider of support services-we're a mission-driven team rooted in respect, response and choice. Since 1976, we've been dedicated to meeting people where they are - providing person-centered supports that allow individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or complex medical needs to live as independently as possible.

Our team is united by a shared commitment to making a real difference, and we encourage you to embrace this opportunity to impact someone's life!

Pay, Schedule & Benefits:  

  • Competitive Pay: $23.50/hour
  • Full Range Scale: $23.50 - $26.20 per hour. The starting rate for this position is fixed at $23.50 per hour. Pay increases occur over time and are tied to tenure/length of employment with Dungarvin.
  • Reliable 32.5 hour schedule
  • Monday - Friday work schedule with weekends off!
  • Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance for eligible employees
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Flex Spending and HSA Accounts for eligible employees
  • Pet Insurance
  • Life Insurance for eligible employees
  • 401 K plan with up to 3% employer match for eligible employees
  • PAID TIME OFF (PTO) for eligible employees
  • Growth and Development Opportunities
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • National Brand Discounts
  • Tapcheck - early pay access
  • PAID training and orientation
Job Description

A Different Kind of DSP Role

Dungarvin is hiring experienced Direct Support Professionals and human services professionals for our Day Program.

This is an active, hands-on setting where DSPs lead activities, teach life skills, support community participation, provide personal care and behavioral support, and help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities build greater independence.

You may lead a cooking or art activity, help someone practice communication or money-management skills, support a community outing, or help someone work through a behavioral challenge.

What You'll Actually Do

  • Lead cooking, art, music, recreation, and life-skills activities
  • Teach and reinforce skills that promote independence
  • Support community outings and volunteer activities
  • Provide personal care, including restroom, hygiene, eating, and mobility support
  • Provide behavioral support and use trained de-escalation techniques
  • Support individuals with verbal and nonverbal communication needs
  • Follow individualized support and behavior plans
  • Drive company vehicles for outings and community activities
  • Complete accurate electronic documentation
  • Prepare, clean, and reset program areas
  • Work with your team to maintain a safe, positive, and consistent environment

Engagement is part of the job. DSPs actively participate, encourage individuals, adapt activities when needed, and help each person participate at their own ability level.

Your Experience Matters

We're looking for candidates with hands-on experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, behavioral needs, personal care needs, or similar support needs.

Relevant backgrounds may include Direct Support Professional (DSP), Caregiver, Behavior Technician, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), Paraprofessional, Teacher's Aide, Respite Provider, Residential Counselor, Community Support Worker, Job Coach, Employment Specialist, or similar human services experience.

Qualifications

What Works Well Here

Strong DSPs are patient, dependable, proactive, and able to stay calm when situations become challenging. You should be comfortable taking initiative, working as part of a team, receiving feedback, and adapting when needs or plans change.

Supporting independence also means knowing when to help and when to coach someone through a task so they can do more for themselves.

What You'll Need

  • 6+ months of relevant hands-on support experience
  • Must be 21 years or older
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid driver's license and ability to drive a company van
  • Comfortable providing personal care and behavioral support
  • Ability to respond appropriately during behavioral and emergency situations
  • Basic computer skills and ability to learn electronic documentation systems
  • Strong reading, writing, and communication skills for documentation, support plans, and team communication
  • Ability to lift and transfer 50 lbs.
Additional Information

If you already have relevant experience and want a Direct Support Professional role where you can teach, engage, support, and help adults build greater independence, we'd like to hear from you.

Apply today to join Dungarvin as a Direct Support Professional (DSP).

We believe in supporting not only those we serve but also each other, ensuring a collaborative and supportive work environment for all. Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law.

#DCAJ
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What Dungarvin employees say

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About Dungarvin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Mendota Heights, MN, US

Year founded

1976

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