ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Woonsocket, RI

May Institute

Direct Support Professional

Norwood, MA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Children's Residential Program Randolph, MA and Norwood, MA Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents ...

mayinstitute

Direct Support Professional

Norwood, MA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Children's Residential Program Randolph, MA and Norwood, MA Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp JobsDirect Support Professional Dsp Jobs in Woonsocket, RI

Direct Support Professional Dsp information

See Woonsocket, RI salary details

$9

$15

$19

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional dsp in Woonsocket, RI is $15.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $16.83 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 Woonsocket, RI?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs in Woonsocket, RI are:

What cities near Woonsocket, RI are hiring for Direct Support Professional Dsp jobs?

Cities near Woonsocket, RI 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 Woonsocket, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,456 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Aspire Living & Learning

Worcester, MA

$18.50 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

At Aspire Living & Learning, we don't just talk about making an impact, we live it. For more than 40 years, we've supported neurodiverse children and adults across New England and Maryland as they discover their passions, unlock their potential, and live more independently in their communities. Our person-centered services evolve with people's needs, from education and behavioral health to residential and community-based supports. We empower people to live lives shaped by their own interests, choices, and strengths. Join our collaborative, mission-driven team and bring your skills to work that makes a real difference every day.

Aspire Living & Learning is currently seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to provide direct support to individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential setting. The DSP will provide support with daily activities, including household chores, meal preparation, recreational activities, learning activities, and physical fitness activities. The DSP will represent the needs, wants, and interest of individuals served or supported by the program, and provide input on program planning and implementation for individuals.

Our ideal candidate:

  • Prior experience working with individuals with disabilities in a professional setting strongly preferred.
  • Basic computer skills, experience using Therap a plus!
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Empathy, enthusiasm, and a passion and dedication for helping others.
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Valid driver's license required, with at least 3 years of driving experience.

Employees at Aspire enjoy working with a collaborative and dedicated team that values a culture of belonging and care. We take pride in offering a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, including:

  • Comprehensive Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance - Choose from multiple medical plans, with vision coverage included at no extra cost.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Saving Account (HSA) options - Use pre-tax dollars for medical and dependent care expenses.
  • Lifestyle Spending Accounts with JOON - Monthly funds for wellness, fitness, commuting, childcare, pet care, and more.
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match - A 100% match on contributions up to 2% of your salary.
  • Generous Paid Time Off - Paid sick, personal, and vacation days, plus holidays.
  • Professional Growth Opportunities - Access to training, leadership and management courses, mentorship, and career advancement.
  • Employer-Paid Life & Disability Insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Telehealth Services and more!

If you want to join us in making a difference and positively impact the lives of others while charting your own path of development, then we at the Aspire team would love to hear from you.

Pay of $18.50 to $19.00 hourly

Aspire Living & Learning believes it must play an active role in creating a community of employees that is diverse, inclusive and equitable. Our work benefits greatly from the contributions of people of color, people from working class backgrounds, women, LGBTQ people, and individuals with disabilities. Hence, we strongly encourage applications from people with these identities or who are members of other marginalized communities. 

#MA26

Apply