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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Fremont, CA · On-site

$24.26/hr

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Walnut Creek, CA

$23/hr

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Union City, CA · On-site

$24.26/hr

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Union City, CA

$24.26/hr

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Fremont, CA · On-site

$24.26/hr

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Walnut Creek, CA

$23/hr

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$23/hr

Elwyn seeks Direct Support Professionals to work with our team in residential group homes. Primary Function * Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Walnut Creek, CA

$23/hr

Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in activities of daily living. * Responsible for adhering to and documenting an individual's program as directed by the ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Fremont, CA · On-site

$24.26/hr

Elwyn seeks Direct Support Professionals to work with our team in residential group homes. Primary Function * Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Union City, CA · On-site

$24.26/hr

Elwyn seeks Direct Support Professionals to work with our team in residential group homes. Primary Function * Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in ...

ALLYJIRI HOMES

Direct Support Professional

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary Allyjiri Homes is seeking compassionate, dependable, and energetic Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support youth in a safe, structured, and ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Direct Support Professional information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Berkeley, CA is $19.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $21.49 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

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

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Berkeley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,473 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Fairfield, CA • On-site

RLNR Enterprises Inc.
See more jobs at RLNR Enterprises Inc.external

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Competitive salary
  • Paid time off

Direct Support Professional (DSP)???? Fairfield, California
 ???? Full-Time / Part-Time Available
 ???? Competitive Pay (Based on Experience)
About Us
We are a person-centered residential and community-based service provider supporting individuals with developmental disabilities under California’s regional center system (Title 17 & Title 22). Our mission is to provide safe, respectful, and empowering care that promotes independence, dignity, and quality of life.
We are currently seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team in Fairfield, CA.
Position Summary
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care, supervision, and support to individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential or in-home setting. DSPs assist individuals in achieving their Individual Program Plan (IPP) goals while ensuring health, safety, and community inclusion.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Provide supervision and ensure consumer safety at all times
  • Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including:
    • Personal hygiene
    • Dressing
    • Toileting
    • Grooming
    • Mobility assistance
  • Support meal preparation and feeding (including G-tube support if trained)
  • Administer medications (if certified and trained)
  • Implement behavior support strategies as outlined in behavior plans
  • Accompany consumers to medical appointments and community activities
  • Complete daily documentation and progress notes
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment
  • Follow Title 17 and Title 22 regulations
  • Communicate effectively with families, case managers, and supervisors
Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities preferred
  • CPR / First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain)
  • DSP 1 & DSP 2 certification (preferred or must complete upon hire)
  • DOJ/FBI background clearance required
  • TB clearance required
  • Valid California Driver’s License (preferred)
Preferred Skills
  • Compassionate and patient personality
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to remain calm in challenging situations
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Team-oriented mindset
Work Schedule
  • Day Shift
  • Evening Shift
  • Overnight Shift (Awake or Asleep depending on assignment)
  • Weekends & Holidays may be required
Flexible scheduling available based on program needs.
What We Offer
  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Ongoing paid training
  • Supportive team environment
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Meaningful and rewarding work