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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Riverside, CA

Momentum

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $18.25/hr

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

DABS, Inc.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Join us! As a DSP/Personal Attendant, you will be a valued member of a mission-driven team that ... This represents the anticipated hourly range for our Direct Support Positions. Actual compensation ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Riverside, CA

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$16

$21

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

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Riverside, CA is $16.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Direct Support Professionals typically do not earn $4,000 per week without additional certifications or specialized experience. High-paying roles that can reach this level often involve skilled trades, sales, or entrepreneurship, but these usually require specific skills, licenses, or business acumen rather than a formal degree. Most jobs paying this amount without a degree are rare and often involve high risk or commission-based income.

Is a DSP the same as a caregiver?

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a caregiver who provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping with daily activities, personal care, and community integration. While both roles involve caregiving, DSPs often work in specific settings such as residential facilities or community programs and may require specialized training or certifications. The terms can overlap, but DSPs typically have a defined scope related to supporting individuals with disabilities.

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.

What can you do with a DSP certification?

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) certification qualifies individuals to provide personal care, assistance with daily living activities, and support for individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. It can enhance job prospects, increase earning potential, and may be required for certain positions in healthcare or social services settings.

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 salary levels, with some states or cities offering premium pay for specialized skills or longer tenure.

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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA 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 Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,337 per year, or $17 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

momentum-formerly-ucpla

Santa Ana, CA

$17.75 - $18.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Schedules Available: 

  • 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM, full-time including weekends and holidays
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Monday through Friday, with extended hours weekends & holidays
  • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday 
  • 2:30 PM - 11:00 PM, full-time including weekends and holidays 

Momentum is seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to provide support and assistance to our clients, enabling them to live comfortably and independently in their homes. As a DSP, you'll play a crucial role in improving the lives of those we serve while fostering a sense of belonging, dignity, and fulfillment.

 Salary: $17.75 - $18.25 per hour 

 Benefits: 

  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Life Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation/Sick/Bereavement leave
  • Credit Union Benefits and Discounts
  • Retirement Plan (403B)
  • Employer-Sponsored Life Insurance

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Responsibilities:

  • Assist clients with personal care tasks, including bathing, grooming, and dressing
  • Help clients with medication reminders, ensuring they take their medications as prescribed
  • Prepare and serve nutritious meals and snacks as per the client's dietary requirements
  • Engage in meaningful conversations, provide emotional support, and participate in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being
  • Maintain a clean and safe environment for clients, including light housekeeping tasks
  • Assist clients with transportation to appointments, errands, and social activities as needed
  • Maintain accurate records of care provided and report any changes in the client's condition to the care coordinator
  • Ensure that all care is provided with respect for the client's dignity and independence

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Qualifications:

  • The minimum age requirement of 18 years
  • High school diploma or equivalent; required
  • Valid and current proof of legal right to drive in California; required 
  • Direct Support Professional I and / or II certification; highly preferred
  • Experience working with developmentally disabled individuals; preferred 
  • Read, write, comprehend, and communicate in English well enough to perform essential duties and responsibilities
  • Successfully pass all post offer, pre-employment screening requirements, including criminal background check, drug screening, health screening, TB screening and provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States
  • Ability to run, push, pull, bend, squat, kneel, and lift up to fifty (50) pounds

With 40 programs and service sites spanning several counties, Momentum is the largest nonprofit provider of direct support for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in Southern California and Illinois. 

Momentum is an equal opportunity employer and is required to comply with equal opportunity legislation in each jurisdiction in which it operate.

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