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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Encinitas, CA

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Ramona, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Ramona , CA. If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be one, this is the ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Escondido, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Escondido, CA. If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be one, this is ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Ramona, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Ramona , CA. If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be one, this is the ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Escondido, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Escondido, CA. If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be one, this is ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Bonita, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Escondido, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Escondido, CA. If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be one, this is ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Encinitas, CA salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Encinitas, CA is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $18.85 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 Encinitas, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Encinitas, CA are:
What cities near Encinitas, CA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Encinitas, CA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Encinitas, CA 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 $36,381 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Building Independence

Escondido, CA • On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL 

Job Title: Direct Support Professional
Hourly Rate: $19.00-24.00 (based on certification) 
Shifts Needed: AM/PM and Weekends Preferred
Job Status: Full-Time/Part-Time
Work Location: Escondido, CA 
Building Independence, INC is hiring compassionate providers to support and care for adults with developmental disabilities.
 
Here's What You'll Do:

Direct Support Professionals support individuals with developmental disabilities, promote residents' health, safety,  well-being, and serve as advocates.
Essential Functions

  • Outline and prepare daily routine(s) for clients' (visual and active) as written in the Individual Program Plan.
  • Support the needs and goals of each resident by participating in developing IPP/ISP goals.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and healthy environment for the residents.
  • Assist clients with personal care, such as grooming and toileting needs.
  • Prepare daily meals and assist with clean-up.
  • Pick-up/drop off clients in company vehicles from/to their home/facility (if necessary).
  • Report any incidents or problems and communicate daily with administrators.
  • Perform other duties assigned.

Education and Experience:

  • Must have a High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Must have at least one year of professional or personal experience in care giving (Preferred experience in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities or mental illnesses with challenging behaviors)
  • Direct Support Professional Certificate Year 1 & Year 2 and CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention (Preferred or willing to obtain within the first six months of hire)
  • First Aid / CPR (Preferred or willing to obtain within 30 days of employment)
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Must have a California Driver's License
  • Candidates must successfully pass all pre-employment requirements, including but not limited to a background check.
 
Physical Requirements

  • Able to work both indoors and outdoors.