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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Brandon, VT (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Support Professional information

See Brandon, VT salary details

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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 Brandon, VT is $16.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $17.93 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.
What cities near Brandon, VT are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Brandon, VT with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Brandon, 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 $34,655 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Residential Specialized Direct Support Professional

Upper Valley Services

Randolph, VT โ€ข On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Upper Valley Services (UVS) is one of Vermont’s designated non-profit agencies serving people with developmental disabilities and adults who are eligible for Adult Family Care.

UVS is seeking a kind, positive and patient Specialized DSP to work with a smart, funny, kind and energetic individual.


  • Employment support
  • Community support 
  • Working within a tight-knit support team that has built-in resources and expertise
  • Extensive training/ shadowing opportunities will be offered for all areas of the role 
  • De-escalation techniques will be provided
  • Therapeutic Options training will be provided
  • Experience with crisis situations is a plus
  • Walking and hiking
  • Volunteer support


The ideal candidate must be able to:

  • Physically able to lift up to 50lbs.
  • High capacity for self-regulation  
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills 
  • Must be 18y/o or older
  • 12 hour shifts


Candidates will undergo a background check, must have a valid driver's license, reliable transportation and auto insurance.



Benefits:


  • Delta Dental 
  • CBA Blue
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
  • Growth and Development
  • Auto Repair Program


Disclaimer:

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee to perform this job. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment or change the employment-at-will status of the employment relationship for the employee or the Agency.

EEO Statement:

It is the policy of UVS to insure, in compliance with and to the limits of federal and state laws, that all employment decisions and actions are made without regard to religion, gender, race, color, national origin, ancestry, place of birth, age, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, veteran status, physical or mental disability, having a positive test result on an HIV related blood test or any other legally protected classification. If an individual with a disability requires a reasonable accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of his or her position or job for which he or she has applied, upon request, UVS will provide such accommodation in compliance with state and federal laws.