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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Rutherfordton, NC

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Direct Support Professional information

See Rutherfordton, NC salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Rutherfordton, NC is $14.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $15.34 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.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Rutherfordton, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Rutherfordton, NC are:

What cities near Rutherfordton, NC are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Rutherfordton, NC with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Rutherfordton, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,629 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Lead Direct Support Professional - 2nd Shift | Rotating Weekends | Chesnee, SC

Charles Lea Center

Spartanburg, SC • On-site

$19.01/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Do you have a heart for helping others and a passion for making a meaningful impact? At the Charles Lea Center in Spartanburg, SC, we're looking for compassionate, energetic individuals to join our team as a Lead Direct Support Professionals-where every day is an opportunity to support people with disabilities in living full, independent lives.
What We Offer:
  • Competitive Pay: $19.01/hour + weekend shift differential
  • Sign-On Bonus: $1,250 (paid in two installments)
  • Consistent schedule: 2nd shift with rotating weekends
  • Paid training and growth opportunities

Outstanding Benefits:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Sick Leave
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Free onsite wellness clinic
  • Flexible Scheduling

Second Shift Availability Required
  • Monday-Friday: 2:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Every Other Weekend (Saturday & Sunday): 8:00 AM/9:00 AM - 8:00 PM/9:00 PM
  • Flexibility to work second-shift and weekend hours is essential.

About the Role:
The Lead Direct Support Professional provides enhanced communication, training, and operational support to Program Managers, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), and people supported. This role includes day-to-day direct support duties while offering leadership, mentorship, and administrative assistance to ensure high-quality services and efficient program operations.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Administrative Support
    • Assist Program Managers with the Performance Development Process by providing required information.
    • Support completion of On-the-Job Training (OJT) for new hires and provide follow-up as needed.
    • Mentor new employees and assist with ongoing training.
    • Participate in pre-admission meetings and communicate needs for incoming individuals.
    • Monitor training data for people supported and provide corrective training.
    • Complete monthly quality assurance audits.
    • Provide emergency transportation and support as needed.
    • Coordinate with internal departments to ensure supplies and resources are available.
    • Assist with documentation for critical incidents and follow-up recommendations.
    • Attend routine meetings with the Program Manager to review updates and needs.
    Training & Development
    • Support DSPs with daily operations, active treatment, and skill development.
    • Assist with assessments, monthly packets, and job process protocols.
    • Document services in Therap using required modules.
    • Submit maintenance needs through UpKeep.
    • Provide training on new procedures, initiatives, and licensing requirements.
    Program & Services Support
    • Ensure adherence to Behavior Support Plans and guidelines.
    • Serve as Medication Technician and document medication administration in Therap.
    • Ensure meals meet dietary and health requirements.
    • Advocate for the needs and preferences of people supported.
    • Serve as backup for the Program Manager when assigned.
    • Ensure daily activities reflect the needs and desires of people supported.
    • Maintain documentation to meet licensing, compliance, and support standards.
    • Assist with scheduling and coverage when available.
    • Perform routine DSP duties, including transportation, meal preparation, medical support, and daily living skills.
    • Conduct monthly council meetings with people supported and upload documentation to Teams.
    Program Specific - Supportive Living
    • Review and report key information to the Program Manager, including daily census, training objectives, appointment documentation, T-Logs, vehicle logs, and monthly required items.
    • Monitor medication supply, expiration dates, and refills; communicate with pharmacy, physicians, or families as needed.
    • Support health-related needs by coordinating with medical providers and ensuring Therap documentation is complete.
    • Serve as liaison for communication between shifts.
  • What You'll Need:
  • Minimum age: 18
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 2-4 years of relevant experience preferred (DSP, CNA, PCA, RBT, Med Tech, Caregiver)
  • Minimum 1 year of Direct Support Professional experience preferred.
  • Valid driver's license and Social Security number
  • Basic computer and documentation skills
  • Ability to pass required background and reference checks

Work Location Flexibility: While this position is assigned to our Lee St location, All Direct Support Professionals may be required to work at other Charles Lea Center sites as needed based on staffing and operational needs.
Physical Requirements: This role involves regular standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and hands-on support. Reasonable accommodations are available.
Ready to Apply?
If you're ready to make a difference and grow in a meaningful career, we'd love to meet you! Fill out our quick, mobile-friendly application today and take the first step toward joining a team that's changing lives.
Charles Lea Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application process.

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