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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Davis, CA (NOW HIRING)

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$26/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our programs in Elk Grove, CA. Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) interact and support our individuals in a variety of potential settings and provide a level of care that enhances the health, safety, dignity, and contentment ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Direct Support Professional Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary team? At Merakey, we put heart and soul into everything we do. We are seeking ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Direct Support Professional Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary team? At Merakey, we put heart and soul into everything we do. We are seeking ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$26/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our programs in Elk Grove, CA. Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$26/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our programs in Elk Grove, CA. Position Details: OurDirect Support Professionals(DSPs) interact and support our individuals in a ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$26/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our programs in Sheridan, CA. Position Details: OurDirect Support Professionals(DSPs) interact and support our individuals in a ...

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Direct Support Professional

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Provide companionship and emotional support to clients and their families * Prepare meals and assist with feeding as needed * Monitor and document changes in client health, behavior, or condition ...

Dungarvin

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $24.25/hr

Already working as a Direct Support Professional, RBT, Behavior Technician, Paraprofessional, Job Coach, Respite Provider, Caregiver, or other human services professional? Your experience can ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Carmichael, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Benefits Merakey offers benefits tailored to support your unique work arrangements. * DailyPay -- access your pay when you need it! * Retirement plan -- both pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) options ...

Prefix*

Direct Support Professional

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Provide companionship and emotional support to clients and their families * Prepare meals and assist with feeding as needed * Monitor and document changes in client health, behavior, or condition ...

Prefix*

Direct Support Professional

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Provide companionship and emotional support to clients and their families * Prepare meals and assist with feeding as needed * Monitor and document changes in client health, behavior, or condition ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Carmichael, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Benefits Merakey offers benefits tailored to support your unique work arrangements. * DailyPay -- access your pay when you need it! * Retirement plan -- both pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) options ...

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Showing results 1-20

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

Direct Support Professional information

See Davis, CA salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Davis, CA is $17.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $18.99 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

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

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

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

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

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Davis, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,610 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

PURPOSE SUPPORTED LIVING SERVICES

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$16.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Direct Support Professional to join our team! You will assist in the daily care of elderly or disabled individuals. 

Responsibilities:

  • Assist clients with daily living activities 
  • Communicate ongoing care results and updates to relevant parties
  • Collaborate with clients and families for best care opportunities
  • Maintain a healthy and comfortable living environment

​Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in personal care or other related fields
  • Compassionate and caring demeanor 
  • Ability to build rapport with clients
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Company Description

Seeking People who are social, that provide services to the less fortunate, people that are in a though situations, and not in the most favorable places.