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

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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 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.
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:
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 II

Seven Hills Foundation

Methuen, MA • On-site

$20.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Seven Hills Foundation rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 239 rated social care providers


Job description

Overview
Direct Support Professional II
Seven Hills Community Services, an Affiliate of Seven Hills Foundation
Pay: $20.50/hour (additional $1/hour differential for active MAP certification)
Be the Difference in Someone's Everyday Life
Looking for a role where your work truly matters-every single day? As a Direct Support Professional II, you'll do more than provide care-you'll empower individuals to live meaningful, independent lives in their communities.
At Seven Hills Community Services, we believe the people we support should have choice, voice, and control over their lives-and you'll play a key role in making that happen.
Benefits for Full-time employees:
  • Health Insurance: Offered through Blue Cross Blue Shield, with generous company contribution.
  • Enhanced Retirement Plan: 25% - 33% Employer match based on tenure.
  • Student Loan Assistance: Consolidation, counseling, & limited employer contribution!
  • Discounted Tuition with College & University Partnerships!
  • Tuition Assistance: Reimbursed or prepaid college coursework!
  • Home Mortgage Initiative: Favorable down payment (3-5%), reduced closing costs co-paid by Seven Hills!

Work-Life Balance:
  • Generous Accrued Paid Vacation: 3 weeks in your first year!
  • Vacation Cash-Out Option
  • 3 Paid Personal Days
  • 11 Paid Holidays
  • Accrued Paid Sick Time

Benefits for Part-time Employees:
  • Accrued Paid Sick Time
  • Enhanced Retirement Plan: 25% - 33% Employer match (Minimum of 20 worked hours per week)
  • Student Loan Assistance: Consolidation and free debt counseling!
  • Personal PTO - (Minimum 20 hour regular part-time schedule - does not apply to per diem)
Why You'll Love This Role
This is more than a caregiving job-it's a chance to empower, advocate, and lead. You'll help individuals achieve personal goals, build independence, and experience meaningful community connections.
You'll also be part of a supportive, mission-driven team where your voice matters, your growth is encouraged, and your work has real impact.
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you're compassionate, dependable, and ready to step into a leadership-focused direct support role, we'd love to meet you.
Apply today and help create opportunities, independence, and brighter futures-one person at a time.
You can also see an overview of the amazing work our organization does with this video:
https://vimeo.com/344648526
Responsibilities
  • Provide daily support and care to individuals in a residential setting.
  • Help individuals build independence by teaching life skills at home and in the community.
  • Follow and implement Individual Support Plans (ISP) and Behavior Support Plans.
  • Assist with personal care, medication administration, and health-related needs.
  • Support individuals in community activities, relationships, and social connections.
  • Accompany individuals to appointments and ensure overall health and well-being.
  • Maintain accurate documentation and data collection to track progress and outcomes.
  • Take a leadership role by training and mentoring other staff.
  • Assist with budgeting, shopping, and managing personal funds.
  • Build strong, positive relationships with families, guardians, and team members.
  • Help maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming home environment.
  • Ability to support individuals with daily living activities
  • Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
  • Commitment to treating all individuals with dignity and respect

Qualifications
  • High school diploma, GED, or HiSET required.
  • Active MAP (Medication Administration Program) certification (or obtained within 6 months of hire, training provided)
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

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