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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Augusta, ME (NOW HIRING)

Happy Haven

DSP Oxford/Monmouth areas

Auburn, ME · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Direct Support Professional Classification: Nonexempt Hourly Salary Grade/Level/Family/Range: $16.00 - $17.00 Reports to: Program Supervisor Summary/Objective The Direct Support Professional is ...

ESM, Inc.

Be Seen First

Direct Line Personnel - Sign-On Bonus - Augusta/Skowhegan areas

Augusta, ME · On-site

$21/hr

As a Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician (MHRT)/Direct Support Professional (DSP) at ESM you will spend most of your time working closely with the people we serve and will be certified through ...

New

Happy Haven

DSP Oxford/Monmouth areas

Auburn, ME · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Direct Support Professional Location: Monmouth, and Oxford MaineSkills Required: Direct Support ProfessionalClassification: Nonexempt HourlySalary Grade/Level/Family/Range: $16.00 - $17.00Reports to:

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Direct Support Professional information

See Augusta, ME salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Augusta, ME is $16.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.36 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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Augusta, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Augusta, ME are:

What cities near Augusta, ME are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Augusta, ME with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Augusta, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,535 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Assistance Plus

Benton, ME • On-site

$17.75 - $18/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) carries out services that focus on the specific needs of adults with developmental disabilities and/or autism by providing Community Support, Community Membership, or Home Support services. The DSP will ensure the quality and safe delivery of approved community and home-based services as outlined in the Support or Comprehensive Waivers.

This position will be required to travel within a 30 mile radius of their home and will transport clients in their communities.

The ability to work weekend hours is required for this position.

Duties include and are not limited to:

  • Ensuring that the clients plan of care drives all service activities
  • Ensuring the safety of the clients while in their home and community
  • Assisting clients in exploring and pursuing areas of interest in employment by accessing community activities and resources for Community Support and Community Membership only
  • Ensuring Community Membership services are provided in the clients community and are centered around the clients individual interests and plan of care
  • Performing other duties as assigned

Position Requirements:

  • Proof of vehicle insurance at $50K/$100K and a valid Maine driver's license
  • Must be 17years of age or older
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • DSP certification
  • Entry level computer experience and must have access to email/internet

Benefits:

  • Mileage reimbursement
  • Flexible schedule
  • Paid travel time
  • Paid time off
  • Working within 30 miles of your home
  • No vaccine requirement
  • Work/life balance
  • We train you initially for the position at no cost to you
  • We continue to offer your job specific trainings at no cost to you
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401K Retirement

Assistance Plus provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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