ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Professional Jobs in Pendleton, OR

RISE INC

Direct Support Professional

Pendleton, OR

$19.50/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals who are passionate about working with individuals with disabilities. This includes but not limited to: assisting people with daily living, hygiene, meal ...

RISE INC FAMILY

Direct Support Professional

Pendleton, OR · On-site

$19.50/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals who are passionate about working with individuals with disabilities. This includes but not limited to: assisting people with daily living, hygiene, meal ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Pendleton, OR

Direct Support Professional information

See Pendleton, OR salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Pendleton, OR is $16.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)?

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.

How much do DSP workers make?

Direct Support Professionals typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. In some cases, wages may be higher with specialized skills or in certain regions, and many DSPs work part-time or full-time schedules with benefits varying by employer.

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 is the work of a Direct Support Professional?

A Direct Support Professional provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, household tasks, and community integration. They often work in clients' homes or care facilities, requiring good communication skills and sometimes certification in CPR or first aid.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Direct Support Professional typically earns less than $10,000 a month; however, high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach that level without a degree. These jobs often require strong interpersonal skills, self-motivation, and sometimes licensing or certifications, but they do not necessarily require a college degree.

What Is a Direct Support Professional?

Direct support professionals (DSPs) provide non-medical care and services to intellectually or physically disabled persons. These services may be in the patient's home, at assisted living facilities, or in government institutions. The primary duties of DSPs are to help the patient with everyday tasks, such as taking medication, providing transportation to doctor's appointments, and running errands. DSPs also aim to teach patients life skills, including light housework and meal preparation, to enable them to be a little more independent.

What is an example of a Direct Support Professional?

A Direct Support Professional is a trained caregiver who provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, medication management, and community integration. They often work in settings like homes, group homes, or community centers and may require certifications like CPR or first aid.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs
What cities near Pendleton, OR are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Pendleton, OR with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Pendleton, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,350 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Connections Northwest Inc

Pendleton, OR • On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Part-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description:

About Us:


At Connections NW, our mission is to exceed expectations while enriching the lives of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. We are committed to making a positive impact in our community by helping our clients achieve greater independence and integration. Join our dedicated team of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and help us empower individuals to live fulfilling lives.


Job Overview:


As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you will play a key role in assisting adults and children with developmental/intellectual disabilities to achieve their personal goals and become active members of their communities. You will provide personalized support services in clients’ homes and community settings, ensuring they are encouraged and supported in a way that promotes independence.


What You'll Do

Your primary responsibilities will include:

  • Assisting clients with daily activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, and household chores, while encouraging independence.
  • Supporting clients with their individualized goals as outlined in their Individualized Support Plan (ISP).
  • Providing transportation to appointments, community outings, and other daily living needs (mileage reimbursement provided for clients 18+).
  • Documenting daily progress notes and communicating effectively with clients, families, and the support team.
  • Promoting community integration and participation in a variety of activities.
  • Maintaining compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.

Why Work With Us?

  • Flexible scheduling – Work around your lifestyle with part-time opportunities, and shifts that include afternoons, evenings, and weekends.
  • Career growth opportunities – We offer paid training (24 hours annually) to help you expand your skills and advance within the organization.
  • Mileage reimbursement for travel to clients’ locations (for clients 18+).
Requirements:

Who We Are Looking For

To join our team, you must meet the following qualifications:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Pass a criminal background check.
  • Hold a valid driver’s license, a reliable vehicle, and auto insurance.
  • Own a smartphone for work-related communication.
  • Complete First Aid & CPR certification.
  • Be available to work scheduled shifts based on client needs.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others, we invite you to apply for the Direct Support Professional position at Connections NW today!