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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Springfield, VA

Community Care Developmental Services

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Direct Support Professional

Prince George's, MD · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Direct Support Professional EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: • High school diploma • 1-year related experience preferred. • Must be able to work independently. • CPR & First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Springfield, VA 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 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, VA? For Direct Support Professional jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Springfield, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:
Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Springfield, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,379 per year, or $17 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

R.A. Quarshie Healthcare LLC-

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Salary: $18- $19

Are you empathic, a good problem solver, someone who takes the initiative and wants to make a considerable impact, work with a great team, and follow your desire for a career that changes lives? At R.A. Quarshie Healthcare, we do this every day!

We are a dynamic human service organization that provides a variety of innovative supports to meet the needs of individuals with a developmental disability. Build a career and make a difference!

R.A. Quarshie Healthcare is looking for Direct Support Professionals with high energy, active, engaging, and creative. Familiar with volunteer activities and community engagement. Also familiar with Behavior management and Data collection.If this all applies to you this, is an opportunity to begin or continue a career in the Human Service field.

We are currently hiring for full time and part time positions! We have mornings, afternoons and evening shifts available. Apply to this opening or contact us at 571-474 -5366.

Locations: Herndon, Leesburg, Springfield, Ashburn, Arlington, Sterling