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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Erie, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

The primary responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of excellence, compassion and integrity in the delivery of services to our individuals. The DSP is ...

Kaleidascope Inc

Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Job Overview: The Direct Support Staff focuses on empowering individuals to access essential ... Collaborate effectively with clients, families, and other professionals to respect and address each ...

L'Arche

Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$19/hr

Assists in the implementation of Individualized Support Plans and adheres to state regulations * Communicates and advocates effectively with doctors and other professionals * Participates in the ...

L'Arche

Direct Support Professional

Lake City, PA · On-site

$19/hr

Assists in the implementation of Individualized Support Plans and adheres to state regulations * Communicates and advocates effectively with doctors and other professionals * Participates in the ...

L'Arche Erie

Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$19/hr

Assists in the implementation of Individualized Support Plans and adheres to state regulations * Communicates and advocates effectively with doctors and other professionals * Participates in the ...

L'Arche Erie

Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$19/hr

Assists in the implementation of Individualized Support Plans and adheres to state regulations * Communicates and advocates effectively with doctors and other professionals * Participates in the ...

L'Arche Erie

Direct Support Professional

Lake City, PA · On-site

$19/hr

Assists in the implementation of Individualized Support Plans and adheres to state regulations * Communicates and advocates effectively with doctors and other professionals * Participates in the ...

L'Arche

Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$19/hr

Assists in the implementation of Individualized Support Plans and adheres to state regulations * Communicates and advocates effectively with doctors and other professionals * Participates in the ...

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Direct Support Professional information

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Erie, PA is $15.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.02 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 Erie, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Erie, PA are:

What cities near Erie, PA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Erie, PA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Erie, PA 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 $32,816 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional/Companion

Kaleidoscope Family Solutions, Inc. (KFS)

Waterford, PA • On-site

$11.25 - $13.75/hr

Contractor

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Location: Waterford, PA 16441
Date Posted: 08/01/2026
Category: Direct Care Services
Education: High School Diploma/GED
b>Come create a colorful difference with Kaleidoscope Family Solutions (KFS)!!!
Kaleidoscope Family Solutions, Inc. provides community and home-based services to persons with autism and intellectual disabilities. Our team partners with family members and existing providers to create individualized goals allowing the team to help improve Individuals' life experiences.
The individuals we support are in need of dedicated, caring, and reliable Direct Support Professionals eager to make a difference in their lives!
DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT OPPORTUNITY
* Assist Individuals as they develop and maintain skills to improve their daily-living and social skills
* Engage in activities with Individuals to live more independently within the community and/or be more productive and participatory in community life
* Maintain annual 24 hour training requirements
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION FOR DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL
* Must be compassionate and willing to care for the well-being of others
* Minimum of a High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED)
* Willing to complete given background checks
* Valid Driver's License and existing insurance
* Willing and able to drive individuals in personal car throughout the community
* Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
* Flexibility is preferred to allow more opportunity for individual assignments
ADVANTAGES
* Compensation processed weekly
* Flexible work hours including evenings and weekends
* Personal and professional fulfillment in an impactful role
Kaleidoscope Family Solutions, Inc. is an EEO employer.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Candidates submitting their resume also usually have experience or interest in other roles including Residential Aides, Direct Support Professional, DSPs, Care Givers, Aides, Home Health Aide, Mental Health Technicians, MHTs, Behavior Health Technicians, BHTs, and Youth Care Workers.
Title: Direct Support Professional/Companion
Class: Direct Care Support
Type: CONTRACT
Ref. No.: 1316805-4
BC: #KFS201
Company: Kaleidoscope Family Solutions, Inc.
Contract Contact: WPA Careers
Office Email: WPA@kfamilysolutions.org
Office Phone: 267-223-6380
Office Address: 600 North Bell Avenue, Bldg. 2, Suite 240, Carnegie, PA 15106
Each Kaleidoscope Family Solutions (KFS) office is separately incorporated. Registering on the Kaleidoscope web portal is not a guarantee that contracting opportunities will be available and/or located. Further steps are required to complete your registration with the appropriate legal Kaleidoscope (KFS) entity. Professionals contracting through KFS are classified and compensated as self-employed independent contractors.

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