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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Rochester, WA

Aacres LLC

Direct Support Professional

Lacey, WA · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Direct personalized supports include basic living skills, communication, community interaction, and recreation. Additional responsibilities include maintaining a clean, safe, stimulating living ...

Aacres LLC

Direct Support Professional

Lacey, WA · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Direct personalized supports include basic living skills, communication, community interaction, and recreation. Additional responsibilities include maintaining a clean, safe, stimulating living ...

Redwood

House Manager-Now Hiring in Olympia

Olympia, WA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

... direct support professional staff. Here's what you will do: include the following and other duties may be assigned. * Promptly reports suspected child/dependent and adult abuse immediately to ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Rochester, WA

Direct Support Professional information

See Rochester, WA salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Rochester, WA is $17.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $18.32 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 cities near Rochester, WA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Rochester, WA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Rochester, WA 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 $35,373 per year, or $17 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Aacres LLC

Lacey, WA • On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Aacres was founded in 1974 on the philosophy of providing individualized community support for people with developmental disabilities. Our belief is that our clients can live in and contribute to the community when provided appropriate support.
We have a strong commitment to serving people, which is the cornerstone of our strength and success. Accepting people with respect and creativity enhances our ability to stand beside them through the difficult times in their lives.
INCENTIVES: Medical*,Dental*,Vision*, Paid Time Off, 401(k), Flexible Hours
*Benefit offered to employee's classified as PT1 or FT
Job Description
The purpose of this position is to provide direct personalized support to ensure supported individuals' safety and health is maintained and they can experience the nature and quality of life of their choice based on their needs, preferences, aspirations, and decisions consistent with program guidelines, policies & procedures. Direct personalized supports include basic living skills, communication, community interaction, and recreation. Additional responsibilities include maintaining a clean, safe, stimulating living environment, providing transportation, and supporting individuals to become active members of their community. Service provisions focus on maintaining or enhancing the individual's dignity, well-being, autonomy, personal choice, self-esteem and teaching functional skills that are alternatives to maladaptive behavior.
Qualifications
Must be at least 18 years of age
Have a High School Diploma or GED
Have a VALID Drivers License and a clear Motor Vehicle Record
Candidates must be able to successfully pass pre-employment background check**
**Minimum Requirements based on State Regulations
Additional Information
Please view our website, www.aacresllc.com for more information, to download an application or to apply on line.
Aacres is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free workplace.
All your information will be kept confidential according to EOE guidelines.

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