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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Company Description Dungarvin is seeking experienced Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join our Day Program . As a DSP you would coach and foster engagement by leading workshops designed to ...

Company Description Dungarvin is seeking experienced Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join our Day Program . As a DSP you would coach and foster engagement by leading workshops designed to ...

... Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our Day Program. If you've worked in caregiving, education, behavioral health, or another human services role, your experience is valuable here. As a DSP ...

... Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our Day Program. If you've worked in caregiving, education, behavioral health, or another human services role, your experience is valuable here. As a DSP ...

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$10

$17

$22

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Santa Rosa, CA is $17.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, including positions such as residential support staff, community habilitation workers, and behavioral support specialists. These jobs typically involve working in group homes, community agencies, or healthcare settings and often require skills in communication, caregiving, and behavior management.

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.

Is a direct support professional a good career?

A direct support professional (DSP) provides assistance to individuals with disabilities, often working in community or residential settings. It offers opportunities for meaningful work, skill development, and job stability, especially with certifications like CPR and first aid. The role typically involves flexible hours and requires strong communication and patience.

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 pay rates, with some states or cities offering premium wages for experienced DSPs. Overall, salaries vary widely based on location and qualifications, but urban centers often provide higher compensation.

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 are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,032 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Dungarvin

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$23.50 - $26.20/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Dungarvin rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 239 rated social care providers


Job description

Company Description

Dungarvin is seeking experienced Direct Support Professionals (DSP) to join our Day Program. As a DSP you would coach and foster engagement by leading workshops designed to support individuals with developmental disabilities. DSP's act as a life coach - they mentor and continuously engage individuals and lead groups through art, music, games, audio/visual, cooking, reading and other life enrichment activities. They also provide direct care support and behavioral interventions as needed and ensure timely and accurate documentation outlining daily progress. 

Whether you've worked in caregiving, education, behavioral health, or another human services role - your experience is valuable here.  If you're ready to create lasting positive impacts on the lives of others, we want you on our team. 

**Must be able to work the following shift option:  Monday - Friday 8:30am-3:00pm (32.5 hrs/week, part-time)

Why Join Dungarvin

  • Personal Fulfillment: Be a part of something bigger by making a real difference in someone's life.
  • Growth Opportunities: Gain valuable human services experience and advance your career.
  • Dynamic Workdays: No two days are the same.
  • Inclusive Culture: Work in a supportive environment where diversity is celebrated.

Wage & 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.)
  • Part-time, 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

What You'll Do:

  • Coach and mentor individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD)
  • Engage individuals through workshop activities to enhance skills. Leading activities such as music, art, games, reading, audio/visual, and other life enrichment activities.
  • Teach and assist individuals with daily life skills such as cooking, money management, and community volunteering opportunities to foster independence.
  • Lead fun outings and workshops and continuously engage individuals in activities.  
  • Assist individuals with personal care and provide behavioral interventions daily.
  • Perform housekeeping duties; cleaning and cooking
  • Provide compassionate, person-centered care tailored to individual needs.
  • Collaborate with your team to create a safe, supportive, and fun environment.
  • Report on daily outcomes within the electronic documentation system.

Why This Role is Rewarding:

  • You'll see the direct impact of your work every day as the people you support achieve their goals and increase their confidence.
  • This is more than a job - it's a chance to mentor, teach, and inspire.
  • The skills and relationships you build here are as rewarding as they are impactful.
Qualifications
  • 6 months or more experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Highschool Diploma or GED
  • Must be 21 years or older
  • Valid driver's license and ability to drive a company van
  • Comfortable providing personal care and behavioral support
  • Compassion, patience, professionalism
  • Adaptable with a positive attitude
  • The ability to take initiative and pivot
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Ability to thrive in a dynamic and active work environment
  • Proficient with basic computer skills and able to learn new systems
  • Good communication is key in this role. You'll rely on your reading, writing, and communication skills to document care, follow support plans, and collaborate with both internal and external team members
  • Ability to lift and transfer 50 lbs
Additional Information

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.

Ready to start your journey? Apply today! Your next meaningful career move starts here. Together, we can create a better tomorrow for the people we serve and the communities we live in.

#DCAJ

7/31


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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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