ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Professional Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Devereux

Direct Support Professional

CT · On-site

$21.50 - $23/hr

As a Direct Support Professional at Devereux, you will work with other dedicated professionals who share your passion for helping individuals in need. What Devereux offers YOU: * A culture that ...

Devereux

Direct Support Professional

CT

$15 - $18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Professional at Devereux, you will work with other dedicated professionals who share your passion for helping individuals in need. What Devereux offers YOU: * A culture that ...

ABILIS INC

Direct Support Professional

Greenwich, CT · On-site

$18.75/hr

Direct Support Professional Program Assignment: Abilis Programs (Residential, Day, LEAP, REACH, and Businesses) Supervisor: Program Manager, Program Coordinator, or Supervising Counselor Job Summary:

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Connecticut

Direct Support Professional information

See Connecticut salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Connecticut is $15.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.68 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.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,221 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

TURNING LEAF AGENCY CORP

Canterbury, CT • On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Turning Leaf Agency Corporation is a DDS private provider, providing continuous residential support and In-home support to individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges in Eastern Connecticut of all ages and abilities. We foster an environment of growth and development. We encourage individuals through personalized plans to strive towards goals that fulfill their everyday lives. We provide support to individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential setting. Our goal is to work with people and help them enjoy a life that is rich and fulfilling.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) ? Group Home Setting
Pay: $18.00 ? $18.50 per hour

Position Overview

Turning Leaf Agency is seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential group home setting.

We are currently hiring for:

  • Full-Time
  • Part-Time
  • Per Diem
  • All Shifts Available (1st, 2nd, 3rd, Weekends)

DSPs provide daily support to individuals in the home, community, and program settings while promoting independence, dignity, choice, and safety.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Provide direct care and support to individuals based on their individualized needs and goals
  • Assist individuals with daily living skills, community activities, recreational opportunities, and social development
  • Promote independence while maintaining a safe and supportive environment
  • Treat all individuals with dignity, respect, and professionalism
  • Maintain appropriate documentation and complete required reports accurately and timely
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, residential staff, guardians, medical professionals, and team members
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals served
  • Assist with transportation to appointments, activities, and community outings
  • Perform light housekeeping and help maintain cleanliness of the home, vehicles, and equipment
  • Respond appropriately to emergencies, including medical or behavioral situations
  • Attend required trainings, staff meetings, and agency events
  • Follow all agency policies, DDS regulations, and safety procedures

Eligible employees may receive:

  • 401(k)
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Paid Orientation
  • Referral Program

Schedule Options

  • Day Shift
  • Evening Shift
  • Overnight Shift
  • Weekends
  • Flexible Scheduling Available

Work Location

Canterbury and surrounding Connecticut locations.

This is an in person position.