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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Bennington, VT

Guidewire Inc

Direct Support Professional

Pittsfield, MA · On-site

$18/hr

Direct Support Professional: Guidewire Inc is seeking Direct Support Professionals to join our dynamic team of caring and compassionate employees. We are a Non-Profit Human Service Agency supporting ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Bennington, VT salary details

$9

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Bennington, VT is $15.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $16.92 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 Bennington, VT look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Bennington, VT are:
What cities near Bennington, VT are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Bennington, VT with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Bennington, VT 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 $32,664 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Guidewire Inc

Pittsfield, MA • On-site

$18/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional:

Guidewire Inc is seeking Direct Support Professionals to join our dynamic team of caring and compassionate employees. We are a Non-Profit Human Service Agency supporting people with disabilities in community settings. We have various part-time positions available, with homes located throughout Berkshire County. As a Direct Support Professional, you will work with our teams to provide the individuals we support with an atmosphere of unconditional, positive regard that promotes day-to-day choices, greater independence, and the opportunity to participate in and contribute to community life.

Core Job Responsibilities: (Not all inclusive)

  • Assist individuals as needed/required with all activities of daily living, such as, self-care and hygiene, food shopping and preparation, budgeting, household maintenance, leisure activities and socialization skill development.
  • Follow and implement behavioral support/treatment plans as required and document tracked behaviors.
  • Create opportunities that provide social and leisure activities of interest to the individuals supported.
  • Communicate effectively with others, maintain a positive attitude of compassion, cooperation, and courtesy.
  • Administration, documentation and ordering of medication in accordance with the Medication Administration Program (MAP) regulations and policy.

Benefits:

  • Health, vision, dental & Life Insurance
  • Short-term & Long-Term disability insurance
  • 401 (K) retirement plan (with company contribution)
  • Competitive sick, personal and vacation time
  • Paid Time and a half on holidays (potential holiday bonus pending certain parameters)
  • Tuition Remission
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Discount Programs

Required Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must possess and maintain reliable transportation.
  • Possess current and valid Driver’s License.
  • Must pass a CORI and Fingerprint Background Check.
  • Ability to work as a team member.

About the Agency:

Guidewire Inc is a Non-Profit Human Services Agency founded in 1982, supporting people with disabilities in community settings, enabling adults and young adults with developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges to enjoy community living. We believe everyone deserves to experience a rich and fulfilling life within their local community. Our team is here to support them with well-trained and dedicated staff guiding them every step of the way.

We appreciate the dedication and talents of our staff as the source of our success. We support our staff by offering professional development opportunities, recognition of accomplishments, rewarding and engaging work. We are committed to promoting from within. We offer entry level opportunities for candidates interested in exploring opportunities in the field of human services. We offer a comprehensive Direct Support Training Program to help jumpstart this new experience.

Guidewire Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.