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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ

Kindly Direct Care

Direct Support Professional

Boonton, NJ · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Kindly Direct Care is looking for Direct Support Professionals who are Caring, Compassionate and Dependable team members to assist individuals with Developmental Disabilities. DSPs must be willing to ...

Kindly Direct Care

Direct Support Professional

Chatham, NJ · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Kindly Direct Care is looking for Direct Support Professionals who are Caring, Compassionate and Dependable team members to assist individuals with Developmental Disabilities. DSPs must be willing to ...

Workforce 1

Direct Support Professional

Flushing, NY · On-site

$17.25/hr

A Group Home/Day Habilitation Center located in Queens is seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSP). We are seeking compassionate and reliable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support ...

Workforce 1

Direct Support Professional

Flushing, NY · On-site

$17.25/hr

Company Overview A Group Home/Day Habilitation Center located in Queens is seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSP). Position Overview We are seeking compassionate and reliable Direct Support ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ

Direct Support Professional information

See Ridgewood, NJ salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Ridgewood, NJ is $16.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $17.74 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 job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:
What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Ridgewood, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,270 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Kindly Direct Care

Boonton, NJ • On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

) Hiring Immediately. Great Pay.
$17-$24/hour
Looking for compassionate, KIND, responsible DSP's looking to make a difference in the lives of adults with intellectual disabilities.
Flexible hours! Hourly, days, evenings, weekends
Do you want a job with career advancement opportunities?
Kindly Direct Care is looking for Direct Support Professionals who are Caring, Compassionate and Dependable team members to assist individuals with Developmental Disabilities.
DSPs must be willing to support individuals who use nontraditional means of communication, must be able to think and act proactively.
Schedule of Services:
Flexible
Qualifications:
Must be person-centered minded
Staff need to be open-minded and come with a positive attitude
Must be 18 years old or older
Minimum of a High school diploma or equivalent
Must have valid driving record
Must be authorized to legally work in the United States
Starting Pay Rate:
$17-$24 per hour

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