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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Washington, NC

LIFE, Inc.

Direct Support Professional

New Bern, NC · On-site

$17.50/hr

Direct Support Professional Needed IMMEDIATELY Compensation: $17.50/ hour Benefits * Competitive Pay * Medical Insurance * Paid Time Off * Retirement Plan * Longevity Bonus (paid on hire date each ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Washington, NC salary details

$8

$14

$17

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Washington, NC is $14.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.24 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

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For Direct Support Professional jobs in Washington, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Washington, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,438 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

LIFE, Inc. - New Bern

New Bern, NC

$17.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Direct Support Professional Needed IMMEDIATELY

Compensation: $17.50/ hour

Benefits

  • Competitive Pay
  • Medical Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Retirement Plan
  • Longevity Bonus (paid on hire date each year)
  • Growth Opportunities

Shift Details: Temp 3rd Shift Full Time and Part Time 

Responsibilities

  • Assist and monitor clients while dressing, bathing, toileting, and in all other aspects of self-care.
  • Assist and monitor clients during meals to ensure utilization of family style dining.
  • Assist and monitor clients in all aspects of housekeeping responsibilities (Clothing care, house cleaning, and yard care).
  • Assist and monitor clients in preparing meals and nutritional supplements.
  • Assist and monitor clients in the administration of prescribed medication without error.
  • Assist and monitor clients in the implementation of prescribed diet orders and utilization of adaptive equipment
  • Implement and follow all established behavior programs, data collection, and established safety procedures.
  • Assist and monitor clients in appropriate active treatment including training objective plans, recording data, and implementing service goals.
  • Participate as a member of the interdisciplinary team and to communicate appropriate clients information as directed by supervisory staff.
  • Transport and monitor clients on Company vehicles as directed.
  • Assist and monitor clients during community outings.
  • Other duties as assigned by managers,

Qualifications

  • Minimum of High School Diploma or GED
  • NC Driver's License
  • 21 years of age or older

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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