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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Cary, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

CS NJ Addendum - Direct Support Professional _1001 _ MPA 3429 * * Employees must cooperate with the licensee and Department of Human Services staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation.

Easterseals UCP

Direct Support Professional

Clayton, NC · On-site

$18/hr

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP ), you'll play a critical role in carrying out that mission by helping people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) complete everyday living ...

Easterseals UCP

Direct Support Professional

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15/hr

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP ), you'll play a critical role in carrying out that mission by helping people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) complete everyday living ...

Easterseals UCP

Direct Support Professional

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$15/hr

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP ), you'll play a critical role in carrying out that mission by helping people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) complete everyday living ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Direct Support Professional information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Raleigh, NC is $15.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $17.07 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.
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Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Raleigh, NC 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 $32,924 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Easterseals UCP

Zebulon, NC

$15/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

At Easterseals PORT Health (ESPH), our mission is rooted in empowering individuals and strengthening communities. As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you’ll play a critical role in carrying out that mission by helping people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) complete everyday living tasks and achieve their goals. 

Position details:       Part-time afternoon/afterschool shifts
Location:                   Zebulon, NC and surrounding areas with local community travel

  • You will provide care in the home of the individual and the community they live in.
  • Assist with everyday tasks such as housekeeping, meal preparation, cooking, and cleaning; personal care such as bathing and dressing, toiletry and changing diapers; as well as employment support.
  • You may transport the client to appointments and run errands.
  • Help plan and organize their schedule.
  • Daily documentation and reporting in the electronic health system of record. 

Why Join Us? 

  • Impact with Purpose: offering families much-needed support and breaks 
  • Professional Growth: Work alongside seasoned leaders who care about your growth and development
  • Flexibility: We offer flexible schedules, depending client needs and your availability
  • Paid training: CPR / first-aid, Mindset, Medication Administration, Infectious Disease, and Seizure Management

We offer an assortment of benefits for part-time and as-needed positions. 

Compensation & Benefits 

  • Competitive hourly rate: $15/hour
  • Optional 403(b) Retirement Plan 
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible scheduling
  • On-the-job skill enhancement and growth

What We’re Looking For  

  • Experience: entry-level, on-the-job training is provided
  • Education: high school diploma or GED is required 
  • Knowledge: basic housekeeping, basic nutrition, and safety protocols
  • Skills: interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and dependability are a must!
  • Technology: proficiency with EHR systems or technically savvy to learn 
  • Transportation: DSPs must have reliable transportation, driver’s license, and current auto insurance 

Ready to Apply? 

Join a team where work isn’t just something you do — it’s a purpose. Bring your expertise to a mission that matters. Apply now at www.eastersealsPORT.com or send your resume to recruiter@eastersealsPORT.com.  

**Voted Raleigh’s Best Nonprofit Organization and Raleigh’s Best Mental Health Services two years in a row!**

About Easterseals PORT Health  

Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy and compassionate partner, providing exceptional services in disability, mental health, and substance use to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication, and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our 2,600-member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults, and families in 11,000 home, facility, and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia.  

Easterseals PORT Health is an Inclusive Culture, Different Voices, Embracing Potential, Authentic Self, and Learning & Growing (IDEAL) organization.   

Applicants of all abilities are encouraged to apply! 

Apply