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Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Springfield, MA

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Direct Support Professional Dsp information

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Springfield, MA is $16.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $17.50 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 Springfield, MA?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Springfield, MA are:

What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Dsp job openings in Springfield, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,753 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (Full-Time, Evenings) - Andover, CT

Gilead Community Services

Andover, CT โ€ข On-site

$19.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Make a Meaningful Difference Every Day
At Oak Hill, you'll do more than provide care. You'll help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live with greater independence, dignity, and connection to their communities. We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated individuals to join our team as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), providing person-centered support in a residential setting while making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.
Whether you have experience as a DSP, CNA, caregiver, or are looking to start a rewarding career helping others, Oak Hill offers the support and opportunities to help you succeed. In this role, you'll inspire growth, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to a mission-driven organization committed to empowering people with disabilities.
Direct Support Professional
Location: Andover, CT
Weekly Hours: 40
Weekly Schedule: Tuesday through Saturday, 3:00PM-11:00 PM
Compensation: 18.50-$19.40/hour (based on assigned shift)
Union Position | Overtime Eligible
What You'll Do
As a Direct Support Professional, you'll support individuals in living healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling lives by:
Supporting Daily Living Activities
Assisting with personal care, grooming, bathing, dressing, and hygiene needs, based on individual preferences and support plans.
Providing assistance with continence care as needed.
Encouraging independence and skill development whenever possible.
Supporting Health and Wellness
Monitoring and documenting health-related information, including vital signs when required.
Administering medications and maintaining accurate medication records in accordance with training, certification requirements, and nursing directives.
Following individualized health care plans and supporting overall well-being.
Promoting Community Inclusion
Transporting individuals to appointments, recreational activities, community events, and other destinations using agency vehicles.
Encouraging participation in community life, social opportunities, and personal interests.
Assisting with Nutrition and Mealtime Support
Preparing meals and snacks according to menus, dietary requirements, and personal preferences.
Providing support during meals as needed.
Providing Physical Support
Assisting individuals with mobility and transfers using approved techniques, adaptive equipment, lift systems, ramps, and wheelchair securement devices as required.
Maintaining Documentation and Compliance
Accurately documenting daily activities, health information, progress notes, incidents, and medication administration in the electronic health record (EHR).
Following all applicable Oak Hill, DDS, DPH, HIPAA, and regulatory requirements.
Responding to Emergencies and Behavioral Needs
Following established emergency procedures and safety protocols.
Implementing behavioral support strategies and documenting related activities.
Applying trained intervention techniques and administering First Aid/CPR when required.
Working as a Team
Communicating effectively with colleagues, supervisors, individuals served, family members, and other stakeholders.
Participating in required meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development.
What You'll Bring
Required Qualifications
โ€ข Must be at least 18 years of age.
โ€ข High school diploma or GED.
โ€ข Valid driver's license with the ability to transport individuals in agency vehicles.
โ€ข Ability to successfully complete required background checks, fingerprinting, and pre-employment health screenings.
โ€ข Ability to complete required training programs and maintain necessary certifications.
โ€ข Commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and professional work environment in accordance with Oak Hill policies.
โ€ข Commitment to continuity of care, including an occasional need to stay beyond a scheduled shift until coverage is in place.
Preferred Qualifications
โ€ข Previous experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), caregiver, home health aide, behavioral health technician, or in a related human services role.
โ€ข Experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
No experience? We provide paid training and support to help you succeed.
You'll Thrive in This Role If You..
Lead with Compassion
You build trust through patience, empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to help others achieve their goals.
Adapt and Problem-Solve
You enjoy variety, remain flexible when situations change, and approach challenges with curiosity and a solutions-focused mindset.
Find Purpose in Helping Others
You are motivated by meaningful work and take pride in making a positive impact in someone's life every day.
Why Join Oak Hill?
For more than 130 years, Oak Hill has been empowering people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive. As Connecticut's largest private provider of services for people with disabilities, we are committed to creating opportunities for independence, inclusion, health, and dignity.
When you join Oak Hill, you'll enjoy:
โ€ข Paid training and certifications, including DDS Medication Certification within 90 days of hire.
โ€ข Career mobility opportunities after six months, including transfers and additional shift opportunities.
โ€ข Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, personal days, and holidays.
โ€ข Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance.
โ€ข 403(b) Retirement Plan with an annual Oak Hill contribution equal to 9.5% of eligible gross earnings, regardless of employee contribution.
โ€ข Employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
โ€ข Life insurance options, including employer-paid coverage.
โ€ข Tuition reimbursement and career development opportunities.
โ€ข Employee recognition and appreciation programs.
โ€ข A mission-driven culture where your work truly matters
We support equality for and advancement of all people, based on their qualifications and actions alone, without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.
Our company is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, please reach out to total.rewards@oakhillct.org. We will make every effort to accommodate your needs in accordance with applicable laws and our commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.