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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Springfield, MA

Whole Life Inc.

Direct Support Professional

Tolland, CT · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals to support individuals with developmental disabilities in group homes. In this rewarding role, you will assist with daily ...

Guidewire Inc

Direct Support Professional

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$18/hr

Direct Support Professional: Guidewire Inc is seeking Direct Support Professionals to join our dynamic team of caring and compassionate employees. We are a Non-Profit Human Service Agency supporting ...

mayinstitute

Direct Support Professional

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Adult's Residential Program Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults (ages 22+) with Autism and developmental disabilities.

May Institute

Direct Support Professional

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Adult's Residential Program Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults (ages 22+) with Autism and developmental disabilities.

T.A. Home Program

Be Seen First

Residential Direct Support Professional

Northampton, MA · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

A direct support professional is a trained caregiver who works directly with individuals who live with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, helping them to lead fulfilling lives. A DSP ...

Almadan Inc.

Direct Support Professional

Amherst, MA · On-site

$20.50 - $21/hr

... Professional Development Opportunities and More SUMMARY OF POSITION: To provide direct support care to individuals residing in community-based settings. To ensure the health and safety of all ...

T.A. Home Program

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Residential Direct Support Professional

Northampton, MA · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

A direct support professional is a trained caregiver who works directly with individuals who live with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, helping them to lead fulfilling lives. A DSP ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Springfield, MA salary details

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Springfield, MA is $16.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $17.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)?

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.

What Is a Direct Support Professional?

Direct support professionals (DSPs) provide non-medical care and services to intellectually or physically disabled persons. These services may be in the patient's home, at assisted living facilities, or in government institutions. The primary duties of DSPs are to help the patient with everyday tasks, such as taking medication, providing transportation to doctor's appointments, and running errands. DSPs also aim to teach patients life skills, including light housework and meal preparation, to enable them to be a little more independent.

More about Direct Support Professional jobs
What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Springfield, MA? For Direct Support Professional jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Springfield, MA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,753 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Whole Life Inc.

Tolland, CT • On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Description

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professionals to support individuals with

developmental disabilities in group homes. In this rewarding role, you will assist with daily activities,

promote independence, and facilitate community engagement to enhance quality of life.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and meal

preparation

Direct Support Professional

(DSP) Template for ADP

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Template for ADP | October 28, 2025 Page 2 of 2

• Administer medications, monitor vital signs, and support medical appointments

• Ensure a clean, safe living environment through light housekeeping and laundry

• Engage clients in social activities, community outings, and choice-making to promote

independence

• Use mobility equipment (e.g., Hoyer lifts) with proper techniques

• Document daily activities, observations, and incidents accurately.

• Maintain confidentiality per HIPAA regulations.

• Implement individualized care plans

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

• Valid driver's license

• High School diploma (or equivalent)

Preferred:

• 1+ year experience in group homes, assisted living, or direct support

• First Aid/CPR certification

• Experience with developmental disabilities, autism, TBI, Alzheimer's, dementia, or memory care

• Strong observation, communication, and heavy lifting ability

Benefits

Dental insurance | Health insurance | Paid orientation | Paid time off | Paid training


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Posting ID 503-04