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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Methuen, MA (NOW HIRING)

Nashua Center

Direct Support Professional

Nashua, NH · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

This Direct Support Professional (DSP) position earns $17.00 - $19. The upper end of this pay scale are for applicants who are highly experienced. Salary review after 90 days of employment. Duties ...

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Direct Support Professional information

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$10

$17

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Methuen, MA is $17.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $18.37 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 Methuen, MA are:

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Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Methuen, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,412 per year, or $17 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Nashua Center in Nashua NH supports individuals with disabilities

Nashua, NH • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Nashua Center of Nashua, NH is looking to hire full-time 1st shift Direct Support Professionals (DSP), 8:30 to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday to support individuals with developmental disabilities and acquired brain disorders to lead self-directed and meaningful lives. Are you considering a career in human services and looking for a rewarding job where you can make a difference in someone's life? If so, please read on!

This Direct Support Professional (DSP) position earns $17.00 - $19. The upper end of this pay scale are for applicants who are highly experienced. Salary review after 90 days of employment.  Duties may include a combination of working inside the home, Day program and the community.

Our employees who work 30+ hours/week enjoy great benefits, including medical insurance, dental insurance, a retirement plan, generous paid time off (PTO), company-paid life, and short- / long-term disability, and .50 mileage reimbursement. 

We respect the individual. We are teachers, advocates, problem-solvers, idea generators, and relationship builders. We have fun, celebrate differences in people, and support each other. In order to hire and retain people who share these values, we offer competitive compensation and a positive work culture.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (DSP)

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you support an individual with developmental disabilities and acquired brain disorders to achieve their goals, explore their interests, and live meaningful lives as independently as possible. You provide this support in a Day program setting. Your support is needed in many areas of daily living including medication administration, bathing, hygiene, errands, meal preparation, eating, transportation (wheelchair van), housekeeping, recreation, and leisure activities. You also help them celebrate achievements and provide comfort during difficult times.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR A DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (DSP)

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's license
  • Insured car
  • Clean criminal record
  • Ability to communicate effectively (verbally and written) with all internal and external staff/guardians.
  • Ability to lift 30 lbs.
  • Desire to relate to people with disabilities.
  • Ability to pass NH medication certification.

We are happy to provide the support and training that you need to be successful in this position!

READY TO JOIN OUR NONPROFIT HUMAN SERVICES TEAM?

If you feel that you would be right for this job in human services, please fill out our mobile-friendly application. We look forward to meeting you!


Will need to undergo a criminal background check, a driving record check and DCYF check.

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