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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

LOVING SUPPORT CENTER INC

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Direct Support Professional (DSP)/ Caregiver

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Hours : Saturday (11:00AM - 7:00PM) and Sunday (9:00AM - 5:00PM) Direct Support Professional ... Prior DSP/caregiving experience preferred * Able to pass a background check and complete required ...

LOVING SUPPORT CENTER INC

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Direct Support Professional (DSP)/ Caregiver

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Hours : Saturday (11:00AM - 7:00PM) and Sunday (9:00AM - 5:00PM) Direct Support Professional ... Prior DSP/caregiving experience preferred * Able to pass a background check and complete required ...

Chimes

Direct Support Professional

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$21.53/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - $21.53/hour Make a Difference. Build a Career. Change Lives. Join Chimes , a mission-driven nonprofit where compassion meets purpose. As a Direct Support ...

Mercy Healthcare Group Inc

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Direct Support Professional DSP

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$26K - $31K/yr

Direct Support Professional Job Responsibilities: * Provides direct care to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. * Performs personal care tasks, including assistance with basic ...

Mercy Healthcare Group Inc

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Direct Support Professional DSP

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$26K - $31K/yr

Direct Support Professional Job Responsibilities: * Provides direct care to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. * Performs personal care tasks, including assistance with basic ...

Chimes

Direct Support Professional

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$21.53/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - $21.53/hour Make a Difference. Build a Career. Change Lives. Join Chimes , a mission-driven nonprofit where compassion meets purpose. As a Direct Support ...

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$10

$16

$21

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Silver Spring, MD is $16.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.12 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 Silver Spring, MD? For Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD 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 Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,015 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Abilities Network Inc

Bethesda, MD

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description

Employee Type: Full-time

Base Pay: $20.00/hour non-negotiable, mileage reimbursement and $20/pay period auto allowance

Location: Montgomery County, Maryland


Do you have a desire to help others and enjoy community activities? Want to grow with a multiple year winner of the Baltimore Sun's Top Workplace Award? Then Abilities Network is the employer for you!


We are seeking responsible, compassionate, and reliable Direct Support Professionals to join our Montgomery County Region! As a Direct Support Professional, you will support individuals with neurodiversity to work toward personalized goals utilizing their community's resources in Montgomery County. At Abilities Network we foster an inclusive, empowering and respectful environment.


The starting rate of pay for this position is $20.00 per hour non negotiable. The estimated average annual starting income is $49,900 which includes the hourly starting rate of pay, $20.00 per pay period auto allowance and average mileage reimbursement.


As a Direct Support Professional, you will be driving individuals to community activities and events each day, so your own personal vehicle, car insurance and valid driver's license are required. The schedule for this position is generally Monday through Friday, 8:30am - 5:30pm, with additional evening availability occasionally needed to support the region.


Abilities Network offers eligible employees a comprehensive benefits packaging including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Company paid Life/AD&D Insurance and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • 403(b) plan with employer contribution
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Time Off, Sick Leave, Paid Holidays, Anniversary Day Off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Mileage Reimbursement and $20 Auto Allowance in every bi-weekly paycheck
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program - earn up to $1,800 per hire!

What will I do at Abilities Network?

  • Assist individuals in working toward personal independence by supporting the learning of new skills and building a system of natural supports.
  • Driving is required for this position, you'll be transporting individuals so your own personal vehicle, car insurance and valid driver's license is required.
  • Deliver customized services tailored to each individual's preferences and personal goals.
  • Provide on-the-job coaching to assist individuals in becoming independent on the job.
  • Encourage the development of individual's interpersonal skills.

Requirements

What does Abilities Network need from me?

  • High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education is a plus.
  • Must have valid driver's license and positive driving record with access to daily use of personal vehicle to reliably travel throughout Montgomery County, Maryland.
  • Must maintain a vehicle capable of safely performing assigned duties - including maintaining safe temperature conditions during high-heat conditions.
  • Must carry a minimum of $50,000 Automobile Liability Insurance.
  • Excellent understanding of time management.
  • Strong ability to think creatively and develop solid internal and external relationships with resources in the community.

Find out more about us and apply at www.abilitiesnetwork.org

If you are interested in applying for employment with Abilities Network and require special assistance or accommodation during any part of the pre-employment process, please contact the Human Resources Office at HumanResources@abilitiesnetwork.org or call 410-828-7700.


Abilities Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train, and promote individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, military status, veteran status, and status as a qualified individual with a disability, sexual orientation, or any other category covered by applicable law.

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