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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Exeter, NH (NOW HIRING)

May Institute

Direct Support Professional

Boxford, MA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Adult's Residential Program Day, Evening, and Overnight Shifts Available | Full-Time & Part-Time Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the ...

Northeast Arc

Direct Support Professional

Gloucester, MA · On-site

$23.50 - $24.50/hr

Northeast Arc is looking for a dedicated Direct Support Professional to join the team in Gloucester, MA! Schedule - Sunday 9am-5pm (Awake), Monday 3pm-11pm (Awake), Tuesday 3pm-11pm (Awake) 11pm-12am ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Exeter, NH

Direct Support Professional information

See Exeter, NH salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Exeter, NH is $16.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $17.84 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 Exeter, NH look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Exeter, NH are:
What cities near Exeter, NH are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Exeter, NH with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Exeter, NH as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,464 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Home of Hope LLC

Manchester, NH • On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Description

Position Title

Direct Support Professional (DSP)                                                 

Reports To

Residential Supervisor / Program Manager

Position Summary:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for providing direct care, supervision, and support to individuals with developmental disabilities, behavioral health needs, brain injuries, and/or mental health diagnoses in a residential setting. DSP staff assist residents with daily living activities while promoting independence, dignity, safety, and community integration.

The DSP is expected to maintain professionalism, follow all agency policies and procedures, and ensure compliance with state regulations, individual service plans, and safety standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Provide direct supervision and support to residents in the residential program.
  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, grooming, dressing, meal preparation, and housekeeping.
  • Administer or assist with medications as authorized and trained.
  • Implement Individual Service Agreements (ISA), behavior support plans (BSP), and related care plans.
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including progress notes, incident reports, medication records (MARs), and communication logs.
  • Support residents with community outings, appointments, recreational activities, and transportation as assigned.
  • Monitor resident health, safety, and emotional well-being and report concerns promptly.
  • Utilize approved crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques when necessary.
  • Maintain confidentiality and uphold resident rights at all times.
  • Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and required certifications.
  • Ensure the facility remains clean, organized, and safe.
  • Respond appropriately to emergencies and follow agency emergency procedures.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities, behavioral challenges, brain injuries, or mental health needs preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record preferred.
  • Ability to pass background checks and required state clearances.
  • CPR, First Aid, and required state trainings must be completed upon hire or within designated timeframe.
  • Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and assist residents as needed.
  • Ability to respond quickly during emergencies or behavioral situations.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds when necessary.

Schedule

Positions may include first, second, overnight, weekends, and holiday shifts based on program needs.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Home of Hope LLC is committed to creating an inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Company Description

Home of Hope LLC (HoH) is a private company created to provide excellent home care services to help individual with developmental disabilities and brain disorders to maximize their potentials for an active and satisfying life.