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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Rochester, NY

The Arc Wayne

Direct Support Professional

Newark, NY · On-site

$17.69 - $22.25/hr

The role of the DSP is to teach, encourage, inspire, mentor, influence, instruct, nurture, and praise the individuals that you support. As a Residential Direct Support Professional (DSP) you will ...

The Arc Wayne

Direct Support Professional

Newark, NY · On-site

$21.19/hr

The role of the DSP is to teach, encourage, inspire, mentor, influence, instruct, nurture, and praise the individuals that you support. As a Residential Direct Support Professional (DSP) you will ...

The Arc Wayne

Overnight Direct Support Professional

Newark, NY · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Overnight - Direct Support Professional ( DSP ) Are you a night owl looking for a great career and make a difference every night? If yes, this is a great opportunity for YOU! The Arc Wayne of Newark ...

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Rochester, NY is $16.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.31 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 Rochester, NY?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY 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 Rochester, NY as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,420 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

**Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Rochester, NY • On-site

Heritage Christian Services
Offices of Mental Health Practitioners • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Heritage Christian Servicesexternal

$20.50 - $22.25/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Heritage Christian Services rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Are you looking for a rewarding career? We're hiring direct support professionals to work in the field of human services and assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as caregivers. Perks of working with Heritage Christian include schedule flexibility, a supportive work culture, job training and professional development. The pay is $20.50 / hr - $22.25 / hr (based on differentials)
Shift differentials:
Weekend shifts: + .50 / hr
Overnight (11pm-8am): + .75 / hr
Designated Tier 1 program site: + $1 / hr
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above range represents the organization's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities of a Direct Support Professional (DSP)
  • Listen attentively and take genuine interest in people as they enjoy meals, engage in personal care routines like hygiene and grooming, and keep their schedules
  • Support people in their meaningful relationships with friends, family and loved ones, which include get-togethers, phone calls and more
  • Assist with personal care and medical needs, including monitoring health, administering medication and completing accurate documentation
  • Drive agency vehicles to provide transportation for people
  • Collaborate with co-workers to maintain a positive and safe work environment

Schedule
Full-time and part-time positions are available. Schedules may include evenings, overnights, days and weekends.
Locations
With over 100 locations, we have positions throughout the Monroe County area including in: Brighton, Brockport, Chili, East Rochester, Fairport, Gates, Greece, Henrietta, Irondequoit, Macedon, Penfield, Pittsford, Rochester, Spencerport, and Webster. Our corporate office is located at 275 Kenneth Drive, Suite 100, Rochester, NY 14623.
Qualifications
Qualifications of a Direct Support Professional (DSP)
  • A valid driver's license and reliable transportation to and from work is required
  • Strong communication skills
  • The physical ability to lift and transfer people who rely on wheelchairs for mobility
  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to use a computer efficiently
  • Let us know if you have experience as a Home Health Aide (HHA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Benefits:
  • Holidays - Full-time employees receive 11 paid holidays a year, including three that can be flexed for days that are important to them.
  • Vacation time - begin to accrue vacation time immediately and can use vacation hours after six months of benefit-eligible employment.
  • Paid sick leave - All employees begin to accrue paid sick leave immediately upon hire and can use it upon accrual as needed.
  • Retirement plan - Heritage Christian Services contributes to employee retirement funds after 12 months and/or 1,000 hours of employment; it's invested money that employees can use at upon retirement.

Heritage Christian Services is a place to grow
You don't need experience to work with people with disabilities. We provide all of your education and training. You may be a great fit for direct support if you have a passion for working with people and want to make a difference every day.
How to apply:
We've made the hiring process easier by using a video interviewing technology called HireVue. After completing your online application, record your job interview using your computer or smartphone at a time that works for you. HireVue will send you an email with a link and instructions. If you can't complete your interview right away, we'd love for you to complete it within a few days. One of our recruiters will be in touch within one to two business days with next steps. We can't wait to see what you have to offer.
Text "START" to 47257 or Click HERE to opt in to receive the invite via text message. Message and data rates may apply
Our Commitment to Equity and Justice
We believe that people are entitled to dignity, respect, equity and justice. We champion a society that removes barriers. We reject racism and discrimination of any kind. We protest systemic and political inequities that marginalize people, recognizing that there is a history of structural racism in the United States. We will continue to learn and change to achieve justice. We know that strength comes from unity.
#IND123

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