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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Hamilton, ON

At least 1 year of professional caregiving experience * At least 18 years of age * Active Ontario Personal Support Worker (PSW), Developmental Services (DSW), Home Support Worker (HSW), or ...

They are responsible and hold themselves to the highest professional standards. * Our Care Team members have a strong desire to work with a local employer who views them as family, and are committed ...

They are responsible and hold themselves to the highest professional standards. * Our Care Team members have a strong desire to work with a local employer who views them as family, and are committed ...

CRC professionals work alongside onshore teams to enhance efficiency, support quality delivery, and ... Provide direct support to audit engagement teams so they can effectively leverage the Audit CRC on ...

CRC professionals work alongside onshore teams to enhance efficiency, support quality delivery, and ... Provide direct support to audit engagement teams so they can effectively leverage the Audit CRC on ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support Professional information

See Hamilton, ON salary details

$7

$12

$18

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Hamilton, ON is $12.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.75 and $14.72 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.

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Hamilton, ON look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Hamilton, ON are:

What cities near Hamilton, ON are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Hamilton, ON with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Hamilton, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,937 per year, or $13 per hour.

Caregiver - PSW - Weekends day shifts

TheKey

Dundas, ON • On-site

CA$18 - CA$21/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


TheKey rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

TheKey is currently hiring caregivers to support clients in Dundas (Hamilton) Earn TOP PAY RATES while building a meaningful career in a growing industry! 

  • Top Pay Rates: $18-21 per hour
  • Shift Availability: Days, evenings, weekends, and overnights
  • Schedule Options: Full-time and part-time available
  • Client Needs: Personal care, companionship, mobility support, and transportation

As an Employer of Choice, our local teams provide exceptional support to our caregivers while they transform the lives of aging adults and build meaningful relationships with the clients they serve.

Join today and help us change the way the world ages!

Why join TheKey?

  • Highly Competitive Pay Rates - starting at $18 per hour 
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Caribou Referral and Rewards program
  • Benefits - Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) with Employer Match
  • Referral Bonuses
  • 24/7 Caregiver Support & local management
  • Career development opportunities
Responsibilities

As a Caregiver for TheKey, you'll assist your clients 1:1 with the following activities inside their homes: 

  • Personal care: assisting with dressing, grooming, bathing, and meals
  • Companionship: social engagement, activities, and emotional support
  • Transportation: driving clients to appointments and running errands
  • Light housekeeping: basic cleaning, laundry, and organizing
Qualifications

At TheKey, we pride ourselves on hiring compassionate caregivers who meet the following eligibility requirements: 

  • At least 1 year of professional caregiving experience
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Active Ontario Personal Support Worker (PSW), Developmental Services (DSW), Home Support Worker (HSW), or International Nurse certification 
  • Reliable Transportation 
  • Valid driver's license, with access to a fully insured personal vehicle (Preferred) 

 

At TheKey, we are committed to treating every employee with dignity and respect while providing a white glove experience for our clients to promote a healthy mind, body and spirit. Join us today and make a difference for seniors in your community! 

Applicable bonuses will be paid via Caribou 

Caregivers must comply with provincial background screening requirements and must be eligible to work in Canada. Certain additional eligibility requirements, compensation, benefits and bonuses vary by province and location, so please ask for complete details at your interview.

Job ID: 2026-15601

Employment Type: PART_TIME

What TheKey employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


TheKey logo

About TheKey

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

TheKey is proud to be the largest private-pay provider for senior companionship and home care for aging seniors in North America. We stand for optimal well being in our clients and pride of purpose in our care teams.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Delray Beach, FL, US

Year founded

2002