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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Hamden, CT (NOW HIRING)

marrakech

Direct Support Professional

West Haven, CT · On-site

$19.28/hr

About the Role As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) , you'll play a vital role in supporting individuals with developmental and physical disabilities in a residential group home setting. You'll ...

Dungarvin

Direct Support Professional

New Britain, CT · On-site

Dedicated training department with paid training A Direct Support Professiona l (DSP) caregiver provides direct support, positive direction, instruction, and assistance to individuals with mental ...

Dungarvin

Direct Support Professional

New Britain, CT · On-site

$19/hr

Dedicated training department with paid training A Direct Support Professiona l (DSP) caregiver provides direct support, positive direction, instruction, and assistance to individuals with mental ...

Dungarvin

Direct Support Professional

New Britain, CT · On-site

$19/hr

Dedicated training department with paid training A Direct Support Professiona l (DSP) caregiver provides direct support, positive direction, instruction, and assistance to individuals with mental ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Bristol, CT · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate:$19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations:Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury and Greater Bristol Area Schedule:Guaranteed set ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Waterbury, CT · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate:$19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations:Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury and Greater Bristol Area Schedule:Guaranteed set ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Bethel, CT · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate:$19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations:Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury area Schedule:Guaranteed set schedules available ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Newtown, CT · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate:$19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations:Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury area Schedule:Guaranteed set schedules available ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Newtown, CT

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate: $19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury area Schedule: Guaranteed set schedules available ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Bethel, CT · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate:$19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations:Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury area Schedule:Guaranteed set schedules available ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Waterbury, CT · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate: $19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury and Greater Bristol Area Schedule: Guaranteed set ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Newtown, CT · On-site

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate:$19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations:Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury area Schedule:Guaranteed set schedules available ...

Ability Beyond

Direct Support Professional

Bethel, CT

$19 - $19.50/hr

Direct Support Professional | No Experience Required Pay Rate: $19.00 to $19.50 per hour Locations: Multiple programs across the Greater Danbury area Schedule: Guaranteed set schedules available ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Hamden, CT

Direct Support Professional information

See Hamden, CT salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Hamden, CT is $16.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.45 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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The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Hamden, CT are:

What cities near Hamden, CT are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Hamden, CT with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Hamden, CT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,674 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Resources for Human Development

North Branford, CT • On-site

$17.69 - $18.45/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Resources For Human Development rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Build a Career with PurposeDirect Support Professional

Connecticut
Part Time
$17.69/hour
$18.45/hour with MAP Certification
DailyPay Available

Looking for More Than Just a Job?

At Resources for Human Development (RHD), we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful, fulfilling, and independent life.

We're seeking compassionate, dedicated professionals who want to make a difference, build rewarding careers, and help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live more independent and connected lives.

Whether you're new to human services or bringing previous caregiving experience, we provide the training, support, and flexibility needed to help you succeed.

About Resources for Human Development

Resources for Human Development (RHD) provides residential and community-based services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. Through person-centered supports, we help individuals build independence, strengthen community connections, and achieve their personal goals in a safe and supportive environment.

Why Join Our Team?Competitive Pay & Benefits

• Competitive Compensation
• DailyPay - Access Your Earned Wages Before Payday
• Paid Training Opportunities
• Supportive Team Environment
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Programs

Career Growth & Development

• Paid Training Programs
• MAP Certification Opportunities
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Human Services Career Experience
• Opportunities for Advancement

Meaningful Work That Matters

• Support Individuals in Their Homes and Communities
• Promote Independence and Self-Determination
• Build Meaningful Relationships
• Strengthen Community Connections
• Help People Achieve Their Goals
• Join a Mission-Driven Organization

What You'll Do

As a Direct Support Professional, you will:

• Provide supervision and support in accordance with each individual's person-centered ISP
• Assist individuals in working toward personal goals and outcomes
• Support activities of daily living, including meal preparation, hygiene, and household tasks
• Provide transportation to appointments and community activities as needed
• Assist individuals in accessing community resources and supports
• Administer or assist with medications in accordance with MAP certification requirements
• Complete required documentation and reports accurately and timely
• Work collaboratively with clinical and program staff to support quality services
• Promote healthy, safe, and socially appropriate behaviors
• Perform other duties as assigned

What Resources For Human Development employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom