1

Direct Support Professional Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Mental Health Professional

Merced, CA

$54K - $71K/yr

Overview The Mental Health Professional provides direct clinical services to persons served under ... The position completes clinical documentation, supports pre-release planning for CalAIM-eligible ...

Mental Health Professional

Merced, CA · On-site

$54.22 - $65.80/hr

... support. How you make a difference The Mental Health Professional provides direct clinical services to persons served under the direction of clinical leadership. The role conducts mental health ...

Travel Occupational Therapist

Turlock, CA · On-site

$1.8K - $2.2K/wk

Direct deposit * Free CEUs * 24/7 Clinical Support * Professional and General Liability Coverage * Accident Insurance * Critical Illness Insurance * Disability Insurance * Term Life Insurance

Travel Speech Language Pathologist

Newman, CA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.4K/wk

Direct deposit * Free CEUs * 24/7 Clinical Support * Professional and General Liability Coverage * Accident Insurance * Critical Illness Insurance * Disability Insurance * Term Life Insurance

Travel Occupational Therapist

Merced, CA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.3K/wk

Direct deposit * Free CEUs * 24/7 Clinical Support * Professional and General Liability Coverage * Accident Insurance * Critical Illness Insurance * Disability Insurance * Term Life Insurance

Direct deposit * Free CEUs * 24/7 Clinical Support * Professional and General Liability Coverage * Accident Insurance * Critical Illness Insurance * Disability Insurance * Term Life Insurance

Travel Occupational Therapist

Merced, CA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.3K/wk

Direct deposit * Free CEUs * 24/7 Clinical Support * Professional and General Liability Coverage * Accident Insurance * Critical Illness Insurance * Disability Insurance * Term Life Insurance

Travel Physical Therapist

Turlock, CA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.3K/wk

Direct deposit * Free CEUs * 24/7 Clinical Support * Professional and General Liability Coverage * Accident Insurance * Critical Illness Insurance * Disability Insurance * Term Life Insurance

Travel Occupational Therapist

Merced, CA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.3K/wk

Direct deposit * Free CEUs * 24/7 Clinical Support * Professional and General Liability Coverage * Accident Insurance * Critical Illness Insurance * Disability Insurance * Term Life Insurance

... Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to ensure understanding and implementation of support plans. · Engage in regular and necessary meetings with family members, individuals, and oversight agency ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support Professional information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Merced, CA is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $18.51 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 Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,769 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Director of Rehabilitation

Reliant Rehabilitation

Merced, CA • On-site

$107K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Reliant Rehabilitation rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

670th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
#LI-JH1
Open to PT, OT, COTA or SLP
Why Join Reliant Rehabilitation?
Joining Reliant means becoming part of a team that makes a real difference in the lives of patients and residents across a variety of care communities. As one of the nation's largest contract therapy providers, Reliant offers unmatched clinical support, professional development, and growth opportunities.
Our leadership team began their careers as therapists, and we take pride in promoting from within. You'll be supported by a dedicated clinical team that provides ongoing training, proven protocols, and hands-on guidance - ensuring therapy is delivered effectively for patients and in full compliance to support our partners.
With operations in 44 states and more than 900 communities nationwide, Reliant can match your location, schedule, and career goals, wherever your path leads.
What We Offer:
• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, dental, vision, and company-paid life insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• PTO Share and Buy-Back Programs
• Maternity and Paternity support program
• Continuing education, mentorship programs and clinical leadership development
• Tuition loan repayment assistance Program
• Flexible scheduling options
Responsibilities
Position Summary:
The Director of Rehabilitation (DOR) is responsible for leading and managing the rehabilitation department to ensure resident care needs are met while aligning with the company's financial goals and regulatory requirements. Through effective leadership and strategic oversight of staff, clients, and referral sources, the DOR drives excellence in patient care, employee engagement, customer service, and financial performance. This role upholds professional standards and fosters positive relationships with facility staff and clients, representing Reliant Rehabilitation's commitment to quality and service.
Key Responsibilities:
• Assign patient scheduling and delegate departmental responsibilities to staff as needed
• Supervise, train, evaluate, and support team members to enhance performance and maintain high standards of care, in collaboration with the Regional Director of Operations and Human Resources
• Participate in the recruitment and interview process for departmental staff
• Ensure compliance with Reliant Rehabilitation and facility-specific policies and procedures
• Oversee documentation practices to ensure accuracy, clarity, compliance with payer requirements, and a comprehensive reflection of patient status and outcomes
• Promote collaboration and effective communication across departments to support team cohesion and operational efficiency
• Maintain open communication with facility administration regarding departmental goals, initiatives, risks, and achievements
• Represent Reliant Rehabilitation's therapy services to the public and medical community
• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings including utilization review, quality assurance, resident care conferences, admissions, department head meetings, and community education planning
• Monitor and manage departmental revenue and expenses to meet budgetary targets
• Establish and implement departmental goals and strategies to drive success
• Ensure timely and accurate completion of MDS reporting and billing documentation
• Foster professional growth through collaboration, self-study, and continuing education
• Maintain a valid state license (as applicable) and stay informed on industry trends and regulatory changes
• Provide or oversee therapy services as needed, including resident screenings, evaluations, treatments, and documentation in accordance with state and federal guidelines
• Maintaining confidentiality as appropriate and ensuring compliance with the state practice act in the state(s) where you are licensed.
Qualifications
Qualifications/Licenses:
• Must hold a degree in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited institution; OR For Rehab Technicians: a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent is required
• (2) years of experience as a Physical Therapist, Physical Therapist Assistant, Occupational Therapist, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Speech-Language Pathologist, or Rehab Tech.
• Must possess a current and active license in one of the following disciplines, if serving as a therapist: Physical Therapist, Physical Therapist Assistant, Occupational Therapist, Occupational Therapy Assistant, or Speech-Language Pathologist
Please note rate range is an estimate and may vary based on skill set and location(s).

What Reliant Rehabilitation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom