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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

$19.20/hr

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) - Join Us in Making Every Day Meaningful! Pay: $19.20/hour Position: Part Time Benefits: Outstanding health insurance (NO deductible on most services!), 3 weeks ...

$19.20/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Day Support Options Monday-Friday | 8:00 AM-3:30 PM | Starting Pay: $19.20/hour | Outstanding Benefits | 3 Weeks Vacation in Your First Year Help Someone Have a ...

$10/hr

The ideal candidate would have Caregiving, Direct Support and/ or Direct Care, C.N.A. or Home Health experience. To support our population of individuals one must be fun, clean, mature, dependable ...

$10/hr

This job is perfect for a Direct Support Professional or Caregiver who is looking to make a difference in the lives of others, and still be well compensated for that work! In addition to excellent ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Alberta salary details

$8

$13

$18

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Alberta is $13.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.06 and $15.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. They help with personal care, medication management, meal preparation, and transportation, while also supporting clients in achieving personal goals and participating in community activities. DSPs play a vital role in promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life for those they support.

What are some common challenges direct support professionals face when supporting individuals with disabilities, and how can they effectively handle them?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral outbursts, ensuring effective communication with nonverbal individuals, and balancing the need for independence with safety. Handling these situations requires patience, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills. Many DSPs find it helpful to use individualized behavior support plans, maintain clear communication with team members, and participate in ongoing training. Building trust and understanding the unique needs of each individual also play a key role in overcoming daily challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support professional, 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, incident reporting tools, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and empathy are crucial soft skills for effectively supporting individuals and building trust. These skills are vital for ensuring client safety, promoting independence, and delivering compassionate care tailored to each individual's needs.

What is the difference between Direct Support Professional vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support ProfessionalPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized trainingCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProviding personal care in private homes or facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome care agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, often requiring similar certifications like CPR and First Aid. However, Direct Support Professionals typically work in community or residential settings supporting people with disabilities, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal care services in private homes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the role that best matches their skills and career goals.

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. States or areas with a strong focus on healthcare, social services, or specialized care often offer higher pay rates for this role. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence salary levels.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Alberta?

For Direct Support Professional jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Alberta look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Alberta are:

What cities in Alberta are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities in Alberta with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,707 per year, or $13.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - DSP - Part Time

THE ARC OF LITCHFIELD COUNTY INC

On-site

$19.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) – Join Us in Making Every Day Meaningful!

Pay: $19.20/hour

Position:  Part Time
Benefits: Outstanding health insurance (NO deductible on most services!), 3 weeks’ vacation in your first year, and more!
Organization: The Arc of Litchfield County, Inc. (LARC)
 

Make a Difference That Matters

Are you someone who naturally lifts others up? Do you believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive and live a full, meaningful life?
At LARC, our mission is simple but powerful: to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities reach their potential — and to do it with kindness, creativity, and joy.

Whether you’re just starting out in the human services field or already have experience supporting others, becoming a Direct Support Professional (DSP) can be the first step (or the next step) in a deeply rewarding career.

What You’ll Do

As a DSP, you’ll play an active, hands-on role in helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead engaged, independent, and joyful lives.
Your days will be filled with purpose — and fun!

You will:

  • Support individuals in their homes, community, or day programs.
  • Help with personal care, meal preparation, and daily living activities.
  • Encourage skill development and independence.
  • Create and participate in fun, meaningful activities — from cooking and crafts to community outings.
  • Offer compassion, laughter, and positivity that truly makes a difference.

Get paid to have fun, connect, and empower others — all while gaining professional skills that can launch your career in human services, education, healthcare, or behavioral support.

Why You’ll Love Working at LARC

  • Great Health Insurance: Employees can pay as little as $15.19 per week!
  • Generous Paid Time Off: Enjoy 3 weeks of vacation your first year.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Full-time and part-time shifts available across multiple programs.
  • Growth & Training: Paid training and professional development opportunities to help you advance.
  • Inclusive Culture: Work with a compassionate team that values respect, dignity, and diversity.
  • Ready to Start Your Journey?

At LARC, we believe in creating belonging — for the individuals we support and for every team member who joins us. If you bring your heart, your humor, and your dedication, we’ll provide the training and support to help you succeed.

Apply today and begin a career that changes lives — including your own.

LARC is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and a drug-free workplace. Testing for illegal substances is a pre-employment requirement.

Keywords: CNA, PCA, personal care attendant, group home, direct care, direct support, direct support professional, DSP, nonprofit, human services, social services, disability, developmental, intellectual, DDS, compassion, community living, autism, behavioral health, healthcare, caregiving.

What You’ll Bring

  • A positive attitude, compassion, and a genuine desire to help others.
  • A high school diploma or GED.
  • At least 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
  • Willingness to complete background checks and physical.
  • Basic computer skills and a commitment to teamwork.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

Being a Direct Support Professional (DSP) is an active, hands-on role that requires both physical and emotional energy. Each day can look a little different, but every task contributes to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for the people you support.

To be successful in this position, you’ll need to:

  • Stay active and engaged: DSPs spend much of their day on their feet — walking, standing, and moving throughout residential homes, program sites, or the community. You may assist with household chores, accompany individuals on walks or recreational activities, and provide transportation to appointments or outings.
  • Safely assist individuals: You may need to lift or transfer individuals, push wheelchairs, or assist with mobility equipment. This role requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds (or ¼ of your body weight) and to support another person safely during transfers or emergencies.
  • Move with flexibility: You’ll frequently bend, squat, kneel, climb stairs, and reach to provide care, assist with dressing, prepare meals, or participate in activities.
  • Respond quickly and calmly: Occasionally, you may need to move quickly — whether redirecting a situation, helping someone who’s unsteady, or intervening in an emergency.
  • Communicate and document effectively: Clear speech, hearing, reading, writing, and basic computer skills are essential to communicate with individuals, colleagues, and supervisors, and to accurately complete documentation and reports.
  • Maintain stamina and focus: DSPs must have sufficient endurance to perform their duties for extended periods — staying alert, supportive, and responsive throughout the shift.
  • Drive safely: Many DSPs transport individuals using agency or personal vehicles, requiring a valid driver’s license, safe driving history, and comfort navigating local routes.
  • Work in varied environments: You’ll work indoors and outdoors, in residential and community settings. Conditions may include household environments, exposure to cleaning products, or occasional outdoor activities in variable weather.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified candidates with disabilities.

LARC provides comprehensive training on all safety and lifting procedures to help protect both you and the individuals you serve.

Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.