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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Oneonta, NY (NOW HIRING)

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Oneonta, NY is $16.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $18.27 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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What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Oneonta, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Oneonta, NY are:

What cities near Oneonta, NY are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Oneonta, NY with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Oneonta, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,297 per year, or $17 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - Sidney

springbrook

Sidney, NY

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

New hires are eligible for a $1,500 sign on bonus

Salary ranges from $20.00 - $22.00 per hour depending on Experience and Qualifications.



“Being a DSP is an amazing and rewarding job based on building relationships with awesome people. The home setting and engaging work environment make it easy to feel comfortable while remaining productive.” – Remington, Direct Support Professional 

Are you looking for a new challenge? From going shopping, playing basketball in the park, helping make dinner, or going to an amusement park, no two days are the same at Springbrook! As a Direct Support Professional, you’ll be part of the best. For over 95 years, Springbrook has provided quality supports and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Working with people who live with a developmental disability is a highly rewarding job based on building relationships with awesome people. Every day is a chance to make a positive difference in someone’s life.  Earn good money, make a difference and gain experience that matters. When you are ready, Springbrook is ready to invest in you.

Full-time and Part-time positions available working days, evenings, and overnights working with adults or children. Weekend shifts available.


Position Summary:

To provide assistance to people receiving services throughout all aspects of their lives across educational, residential and community environments. Provides support for activities of daily living (ADL’s) including personal care. Promote choice and independence while providing protective oversite. Demonstrate compliance with all Springbrook policies and State regulations to ensure safe and smooth operation of the program.


Qualifications, Skills and Knowledge Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Experience working with people with developmental disabilities is preferred
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including mandatory overtime as necessary, and overnights. Will be reassigned to other locations based on business needs
  • Duties require professional verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficiency in or knowledge of using a variety of computer software and e-mail applications, especially Microsoft Excel, Outlook and Word; have the aptitude to learn other computer software as necessary.
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs. independently and assist in lifting weights exceeding 50 lbs.
  • Meet the requirements to drive Springbrook vehicles as required
  • Valid Driver’s License required
  • Be able to perform all physical interventions.

Apply