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Direct Support Professional Weekend Jobs in Lawrence, MA

Direct Support Professional

Andover, MA · On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Shifts available: 3pm-11pm and various weekend availability. What does a Residential Direct Support Professional (DSP) do? * Support Residents to participate in communities as workers, neighbors, and ...

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Direct Support Professional Weekend information

See Lawrence, MA salary details

$10

$17

$21

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional weekend in Lawrence, MA is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional weekend?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who work on weekends are caregivers who assist people with disabilities or special needs during weekend hours. Their duties may include helping clients with daily living activities, medication management, transportation, and social engagement. Weekend DSPs play a critical role in ensuring continuous support when regular weekday staff are unavailable. They often work in residential homes, community settings, or clients’ own homes, providing compassion and stability. This role requires flexibility, patience, and a dedication to improving clients’ quality of life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support professional weekend?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional Weekend, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving skills, and knowledge of support strategies for individuals with disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, assistive technology, and first aid/CPR certification is often required. Compassion, patience, reliability, and strong communication are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting clients' independence. These skills ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of individuals while maintaining a supportive and responsive care environment.

What are some common challenges faced by direct support professionals working weekends, and how can they be managed?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) working weekends often encounter challenges such as staffing shortages, increased responsibility due to fewer supervisors on site, and supporting individuals during less structured or recreational hours. To manage these challenges, it’s important to communicate proactively with team members, use effective problem-solving skills, and remain adaptable to changing needs. Many weekend DSPs also find it helpful to plan engaging activities in advance and to build strong rapport with both the individuals they support and their colleagues, ensuring a supportive and collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Direct Support Professional Weekend vs Direct Support Professional Full-Time?

AspectDirect Support Professional WeekendDirect Support Professional Full-Time
Work ScheduleWeekend shifts, typically Saturday and SundayFull weekly schedule, including weekdays
CredentialsSame certifications as full-time, such as CPR/First AidSame certifications as weekend roles
Work EnvironmentResidential facilities, community settingsResidential, community, or day programs
Employer & IndustryHuman services, healthcare providersSame as weekend roles

Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments. The main difference is the schedule, with weekend positions focusing on weekend shifts, while full-time roles cover the entire week. Your choice depends on your availability and preferred work hours.

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 services, such as urban areas or states with higher minimum wages. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence pay rates, with some facilities offering premium pay for weekend shifts or specialized skills.

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

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional Weekend jobs in Lawrence, MA are:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional Weekend job openings in Lawrence, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,535 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

American Training is a non-profit Human Services agency proudly recognized by The Boston Globe as a Top Place to Work in Massachusetts and nationally by USA Today. We’re known for our innovative, values-driven workplace culture powered by our WOW! Magic Culture. This award is a testimony to the creative talent, knowledge, and experienced Colleagues we have on our team.

We are seeking full-time and part-time Direct Support Professionals to care for our Residents, Adults with Developmental Disabilities, in our Merrimack Valley Residential homes. Whether it’s cooking, traveling, surfing, or relaxing as an American Training Direct Support Professional you will be a vital part in ensuring our Residents, adults with developmental disabilities, are living meaningful and memorable lives!

Shifts available: 3pm-11pm  and various weekend availability.

What does a Residential Direct Support Professional (DSP) do?

  • Support Residents to participate in communities as workers, neighbors, and friends
  • Fosters an environment of empowerment and choice for all Residents
  • Supports, encourages, and ensures that Residents personal preferences, goals, and aspirations are a part of their daily lives
  • Supports Residents in the maintenance of their homes including cooking, shopping, cleaning, and laundry
  • Possesses an upbeat and positive attitude to ensure a culture of FUN and entertaining WOW! Magic experiences for all Residents
  • At least one year experience working with people with developmental disabilities
  • Ability to demonstrate a sense of empathy, patience, and compassion
  • Satisfactory CORI and DDS fingerprinting (required)
  • Valid State driver’s license and the use of a personal vehicle with appropriate insurance coverage (required)
  • Must be able to lift 40 pounds and have the ability to physically implement First Aid/CPR to Residents in emergency situations

We are looking for a talented individual with a deep commitment to working as part of a skilled team and a true passion for advocating for American Training Guests, to ensure that they are receiving quality services while incorporating our WOW! Magic philosophy.

American Training offers a competitive benefits package; medical and dental insurance, short- and long-term disability, vision, life insurance, generous earned time off, paid holidays and vacation, a FUN work environment, and much more!