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

RCIL

Direct Support Professional

Utica, NY · On-site

$18.20/hr

Provide support with activities such as: cooking, cleaning, shopping, money management, personal hygiene and social activities. * Assist with physical transfer within the home or to vehicle.

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Direct Support Professional information

See Rome, NY salary details

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$19

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Rome, NY is $15.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.65 and $16.63 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 Rome, NY look for?

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

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

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

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Rome, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,069 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Senior Direct Support Professional

East Syracuse, NY • On-site

Community options
See more jobs at Community optionsexternal

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Community Options rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Community Options, Inc. is a national non-profit agency providing services to individuals with disabilities in 12 states.
We are looking for Senior Direct Support Professionals in Syracuse, NY. The Senior Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for providing person-centered care tailored to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will also support a team with day-to-day operations and challenges as a team leader for an assigned location. The shift for this position is 3PM-11PM.
Starting pay is $18.00/hour
Responsibilities
  • Provide direct care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities tailored to their Individual Support Plan (ISP)/Person Centered Plan (PCP)
  • Assist with training team members to support programmatic initiatives, goals, daily routines, and the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Assist with daily routines including cleaning, cooking established meal plans, feeding, medication administration, and maintaining personal hygiene
  • Monitor the health and medical needs of individuals and immediately report any concerns
  • Drive individuals to medical appointments and activities in the community
  • Assist with the learning and development of independent and community-based skills
  • Ensure program documentation and billable records are completed accurately and timely
  • Participate with individuals in community, social, and recreational activities
  • Build a support network for individuals by developing and maintaining relationships with community members, businesses, and families
  • Ensure work locations and vehicles are clean, well maintained, and stocked with necessary supplies including groceries, medications, and cleaning supplies
  • Employees must cooperate with the licensee and department staff in any inspection, inquiry or investigation
  • Additional tasks and responsibilities may be assigned

Minimum Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Complete all state and agency required training per state guidelines
  • Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
  • Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Ability to work individually and with a team to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Ability to establish a comfortable and supportive relationship with individuals receiving supports
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and remain calm in crisis situations
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent time management skills

Working Conditions
  • Work in residential programs, day programs, and in the community
  • Schedule may change due to business needs and may include evening and weekend hours
  • Overtime may be required due to business needs
  • Frequent lifting, stretching, and other physical exertion may be required
  • May be required to lift or move 25+ pounds
  • May assist with wheelchair transfer of non-ambulatory participants
  • May be exposed to various medical conditions and communicable diseases

Why Community Options?
  • Competitive Insurance Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • Paid Holidays-Including a Birthday Holiday
  • Generous PTO
  • Employee Incentive & Discount Programs
  • 403b Retirement Plan
  • Incredible career growth opportunities

Send resume to: Resumes-SR@comop.org
Community Options is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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