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

mayinstitute

Direct Support Professional

North Reading, MA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Adult's Residential Program Day, Evening, and Overnight Shifts Available | Full-Time & Part-Time Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the ...

May Institute

Direct Support Professional

Norwood, MA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Children's Residential Program Randolph, MA and Norwood, MA Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents ...

mayinstitute

Direct Support Professional

Norwood, MA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Children's Residential Program Randolph, MA and Norwood, MA Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents ...

Northeast Arc

Direct Support Professional

Burlington, MA · On-site

$23.50 - $24.50/hr

Direct Support Professional Location: Burlington MA / residential community settings Schedule: Sunday 10am-6pm, Monday 4pm-9pm, Wednesday 4pm-9pm, Thursday 4pm-9pm, Friday 4pm-9pm, and Saturday 10am ...

New

AMEGO INC

Direct Support Professional

Franklin, MA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Direct Support Professional: Join the Amego team and make a difference in the lives of the people we serve! Amego Inc. is an organization that is dedicated to supporting and empowering the ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Needham, MA salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Needham, MA is $17.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.13 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.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs
What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Needham, MA? For Direct Support Professional jobs in Needham, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Needham, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Needham, MA are:
What cities near Needham, MA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Needham, MA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Needham, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,898 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Resources for Human Development

Medford, MA • On-site

$18.50 - $21.20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 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

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Greater Boston Area

Company: Resources for Human Development

Employment Type: full time

About Us:

At Resources for Human Development, we are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling and independent lives. Our team is passionate about providing compassionate care and support tailored to each person's unique needs. We are currently seeking motivated and caring individuals to join us full time as Direct Support Professionals in the Boston neighborhoods of West Roxbury and Roslindale.

Job Summary:

As a Direct Support Professional, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Your responsibilities will include assisting clients with daily living activities, promoting independence, and providing emotional support and companionship. As a per diem worker you will join our relief pool with flexible hours.

Key Responsibilities:

· Support clients in daily living activities, including personal care, meal preparation, and household management.

· Foster a positive and respectful relationship with clients while promoting their independence and personal choices.

· Assist clients in developing skills for everyday living and participate in social and recreational activities.

· Document client progress and maintain accurate records of care and support provided.

· Communicate effectively with clients, families, and other team members to ensure coordinated care.


Qualifications:

· High school diploma or equivalent; further education in a related field is a plus. Must be able to provide proof of education.

· Previous experience in direct support, caregiving, or a related field preferred.

· Compassionate and patient demeanor with a genuine desire to help others.

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Valid driver's license required.

· CPR, First Aid and MAP certification (or willing to obtain).

· Must participate in background clearance including FBI check.

Why Join Us?

· Competitive salary and benefits package. MAP trained professionals earn $21.20/hourly. DSP's without MAP earn $18.50 hourly.

· Opportunities for professional development and advancement.

· A supportive and caring work environment.

· The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

About Company:

Resources for Human Development and RHD Boston are part of Apis Services, Inc.

Apis Services, Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Inperium, Inc.) provides a progressive platform for delivering Shared Services to Inperium and its Constellation of affiliate companies. Allowing these entities to advance their mission and vision. By exploring geographical program expansion and focusing on quality outcome measures to create cost savings that result in reinvestment into the organizations stakeholders through capacity creation and employee compensation betterment.

Apis Services, Inc. and affiliate’s provide equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment in compliance with all federal and all applicable state and local laws and regulations, including nondiscrimination in hiring and employment. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy/childbirth, veteran status or any other basis protected by law. This policy of non-discrimination and equal employment opportunities extends to every phase and aspect of hiring and employment.

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