ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Professional Jobs in Bellingham, WA

Cascade Connections

Site Manager

Lynden, WA · On-site

$27.81 - $33.90/hr

Signed Direct Support Professional - Behavioral Technician (after acquiring RIGHT RESPONSE Advanced Certification) Physical Requirements: * Lifting, transferring, and positioning clients: * Lifting ...

RecruitWell

Gastroenterology Physician

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$415K/yr

Weekly direct deposit * 24/7 dedicated recruiter support * Professional onboarding and credentialing * Prepaid travel and lodging RecruitWell's Core Values: * Open communication * Sense of urgency

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Bellingham, WA

Direct Support Professional information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Bellingham, WA is $16.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.22 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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Bellingham, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Bellingham, WA are:
What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Bellingham, WA 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 $35,206 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Holly Community Services

Bellingham, WA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

We are seeking difference makers to join our team! Full and Part-Time Direct Support Professional Positions Available! Competitive Wages, Sign-on and Referral Bonuses+ Benefits!!!
HCS's workplace is a creative and interactive environment where everyone works together! We believe employees are a company's greatest asset and an integral part of HCS's mission. We take an active and genuine interest in people and invest the time to understand people at the fundamental level to create an environment of respect and mutual growth for all!
As an HCS Direct Support Professional you will be responsible for empowering the individuals we serve to live their best lives by assisting and promoting independence for the individuals we serve and providing support in all aspects of residential life, be it assisting with banking/budgeting, learning new skills, shopping, visiting friends, meal preparation, cleaning, and engaging in community activities.
HCS has been supporting adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities throughout the Bellingham & Ferndale communities since 1980. Discover a rewarding career in Direct Support by helping others every day and enjoying work that makes a difference in someone's life!
Competitive Wages, Sign-on, and Referral Bonuses + Benefits!!!
Benefits:
*Sick pay
*Generous PTO
*Health Insurance with vision included.
*Dental
*Opportunities for advancement!
*Free continuing education opportunities!!
*Employee-assistance program
*Mileage reimbursements
*Direct deposit
*Training provided.
(Nurse Delegation Core Training, Nursing Assistant Registered license, Residential Service Curriculum, CPR/ 1st Aid, and Blood-borne Pathogens HIV/AIDS training).
Holly Community Services is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination on any basis including race, age, gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Apply