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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Georgetown, DE

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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 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Georgetown, DE is $15.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $16.20 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 Georgetown, DE look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Georgetown, DE are:

What cities near Georgetown, DE are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Georgetown, DE with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Georgetown, DE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,281 per year, or $15 per hour.

Residential Direct Support Professional

The Salvation Army Eastern Territory

Millsboro, DE • On-site

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 772 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Overview
Position: Residential Direct Support Professional - Georgetown, Delaware
Availability of Position: Immediately available in Georgetown, Delaware
Schedule: Full Time - Day/Evenings and every other weekend
Salary and Grade: $18.50 per hour
This position is a non-exempt position with the responsibility for support to persons with developmental disabilities residing in residential program in Georgetown, DE.
Assists individuals with developmental disabilities in becoming more independent and engaged in activities in the local community.
Responsibilities
This person acts as an important role model for individuals supported by the program. He/ she is responsible for assisting the supervisor in assessing the needs of the individuals served and for seeing that these needs are met through direct programming. This employee assists in maintaining a healthy emotional and physical environment for the individuals supported by the program and for assuring that the program in all ways reflect the needs and individuality of all people served. This employee also shares in the responsibility for the image that the facility, individuals supported by the program, and staff present to the community. This employee's role is to help the person served achieve his/ her greatest potential through individual programming, while at the same time being sensitive to the personal needs of each resident for privacy, free time, and a normative lifestyle.
Qualifications
  • Minimum requirement of a High School Diploma/GED.
  • A valid driver's license and good driving record.
  • Basic computer skills required.
  • Experience should include supports to people with a range of Developmental Disabilities, including individuals with dual diagnoses and physical injuries.
  • Position requires a positive attitude toward the abilities of individuals with disabilities.
  • Good communication skills and the desire to engage people in activities that meet their interests and broaden their horizons.
  • You must be able to successfully complete clearance required by the Joseph R. Biden II and the Child Protection Act.
  • Must have an understanding of and appreciation for the Mission of The Salvation Army.

What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

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Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US