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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Springfield, MA

Sunshine

Direct Support Professional - Chicopee

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$21.50 - $21.51/hr

Direct Support Professional - Chicopee Hours: 35 hrs/week - Monday - Friday 8:30am - 3:30pm Salary: $21.50/hr Benefits: We offer generous Paid Time Off, including 11 Paid Holidays and Snow Days. We ...

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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 Aug 13, 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 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
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 66% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,753 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Multicultural Community Services Of The Pioneer Valley

Springfield, MA

$20.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

**$500 sign-on bonus after 6 months**

Multicultural Community Services, an innovative and creative human service agency, is looking for dedicated and committed employees to be responsible for the care and support of individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral needs at local residential sites in the Western Mass area (Springfield, Westfield, East Longmeadow, etc.). Supports will include providing care in their homes (cooking, cleaning, bathing, etc.) and taking them out to community activities.

***Evenings, Overnight & Weekend shifts available

Required Trainings: First Aid, CPR, Medication Administration Cert., Applied Non-Violence or Safety Care, knowledge of Positive Behavior System, Human Rights Training and other trainings as required.

**MCS will provide paid trainings onsite

Must have valid driver's license & vehicle on all shifts. Must be dependable. Must have good communication skills and be able to work in a team environment.

**Please Apply Online or fax resume** www.mcsnet.org

Required education:

  • High school or equivalent
  • previous experience is helpful (personal or professional)

Required license or certification:

  • Drivers License
  • CORI & Background Check

$500 Sign-on bonus after 6 months!