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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Brunswick, ME

3Rivers, Inc.

Direct Support Professional

Gardiner, ME · On-site

$17.75 - $18.75/hr

The responsibility of the Direct Support Professional (DSP) is to provide a safe environment, to include support and supervision to individuals with disabilities. The DSP is responsible for ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Chelsea, ME · On-site

$18.75/hr

Our base wage is $18.75 /hour, but if you have direct care experience or have certifications such ... Work closely with our clinical staff to support the therapeutic and behavioral plans in place.

Sevita Health

Direct Support Professional

Chelsea, ME · On-site

$18.75/hr

Our base wage is $18.75 /hour, but if you have direct care experience or have certifications such ... Work closely with our clinical staff to support the therapeutic and behavioral plans in place.

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Brunswick, ME

Direct Support Professional information

See Brunswick, ME salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Brunswick, ME is $16.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $17.88 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.
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What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Brunswick, ME look for?

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

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

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

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Brunswick, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,531 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional DSP

New Communities Inc

Lewiston, ME • On-site

$15.10 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description

New Communities is proud to have been named one of the 2024 and 2025 Best Places to Work in Maine. This recognition reflects our commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and rewarding environment for our team members. Join our award-winning team!


There has never been a better time to start a career in healthcare! New Communities offers paid training opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and hands on experience working in direct care. If you are looking to work as a caregiver in a rewarding environment while making an impact on the lives of adults with intellectual disabilities, then we are looking for you to jumpstart your career at New Communities!


Full-time position available (every weekend included) - Pay rate dependent on position, shift, certifications, and experience, ranging from $15.10-$16.75/hr. Hiring immediately!


The role: As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at our residential program located in Lewiston, ME, you will provide direct care support to adults with intellectual disabilities and/or autism. Support consists of acting as a role model, administering medication, assistance with personal care, and inspiring clients to be as independent as possible, both at home and in the community. This opportunity includes attending and actively promoting recreational, social outings, and activities for our clients with New Communities company vehicles for client transportation.


Direct Support Professional (DSP) Benefits:

  • Paid training opportunities and certifications
  • Same day pay option
  • Health insurance
  • Dental and Vision insurance
  • Paid time off - Up to 15 days off per year for full-time employee
  • Tuition reimbursement up to $2000/year
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with 5% company match
  • Wellness program including fitness reimbursement
  • Birthday bonus
  • Making a difference!

No Per diem positions available at this time - work hours are not guaranteed and are scheduled on an as-needed basis. This role is ideal for someone looking for flexibility rather than a set schedule. 40-hour CRMA is required for per diem position.


Requirements

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Requirements:

  • A high school diploma/GED required
  • Must be 18 years of age or over
  • Active driver's license is required
  • Experience in direct care, preferred, but not required. Willing to train.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively with residents and coworkers whose primary language is English

Apply