ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Professional Jobs in Vermont (NOW HIRING)

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Vermont

Direct Support Professional information

See Vermont salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Vermont is $17.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.65 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 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.

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.

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 cities 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 Vermont? For Direct Support Professional jobs in Vermont, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Vermont look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Vermont are:
What cities in Vermont are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities in Vermont with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Vermont as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,014 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - Residential

United Counseling Service

Bennington, VT • On-site

$21.19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Why join UCS?
Since 1958, United Counseling Service (UCS) has been dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals and families in our community. Through a wide range of programs, services, and educational opportunities, we strive to meet the diverse needs of those we serve. Our team includes professionals from various fields, including administration, clinical services, nursing, education, case management, psychiatry, and direct support, working across 17 facilities throughout Bennington County.
As a proud affiliate of Vermont Care Partners-a statewide network of 16 non-profit community-based agencies-we deliver comprehensive mental health, substance use, and intellectual and developmental services across Vermont. We are currently seeking compassionate, motivated team players to join us in making a positive impact and building a stronger community.
UCS Offers Generous Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Generous paid time off
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement plan with employer match
  • Employer paid life insurance
  • Employer paid short term and long-term disability insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Career development opportunities
  • Free clinical supervision towards licensure
  • Loan repayment and tuition assistance program
  • Award winning worksite wellness program
  • An inclusive workplace supported by an active Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee.
  • Rewarding experience making a difference in the community.

We believe a dynamic and inclusive workforce will strengthen our organization and enhance the services we provide. Therefore, it is our goal to hire a diverse workforce and cultivate a culture where our employees feel accepted and included, hold a valued place within our organization and are equally able to contribute to their fullest extent, assisting in fulfilling our mission of building a stronger community.
Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Residential
Schedule: 40 hours per week, 2nd shift. Some weekend hours required.
Position Summary
Under the direction of the Group Home Manager, the Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Residential provides direct support to individuals, implements Individual Support Agreements (ISAs), and participates in the day-to-day activities within the group home.
Major Responsibilities
1. Direct Service
  • Implement each individual's ISA consistently while promoting independence and personal growth.
  • Participate in all daily routines, including self-care, money management, dining, problem-solving, social skills, leisure activities, independent living tasks, and community outings.
  • Administer medications as assigned and ensure accuracy in all medication-related tasks.
  • Communicate with nursing staff appropriately and in a timely manner.
  • Serve as an advocate for each individual, ensuring respect, safety, and dignity.
  • Follow all regulations, policies, procedures, and service plans.

2. Program Implementation & Development
  • Work collaboratively as a member of the Group Home team.
  • Attend scheduled meetings and participate actively in team discussions.
  • Implement ISAs as written and assist with the development of individual ISAs.
  • Complete required trainings as assigned.

3. Recordkeeping
  • Accurately enter data, progress notes, monthly summaries, and any other documentation related to the operation of the group home.
  • Ensure all required records are completed in a timely and compliant manner.

4. Housekeeping & Home Management
  • Perform general housekeeping and cleaning duties as assigned.
  • Contribute to consistent household management, including housekeeping, grocery shopping, cooking, ordering supplies, basic maintenance, and vehicle upkeep.
  • Report any issues with the group home's operation, equipment, or vehicles to the Group Home Manager or DSP Level II (in the Manager's absence).

Requirements
Education & Experience Required:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent

Preferred:
  • Direct Service experience preferred
  • Experience with individuals with intellectual disabilities preferred

Skills
  • Proficiency in using Microsoft Outlook for internal e-mail communication

Licenses/Certifications & Other
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Reliable transportation to transport clients on occasion

Salary Description
$21.19

Apply