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Direct Support Professionals Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kindly Direct Care

direct support Professionals

Teaneck, NJ · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Kindly Direct Care is looking for Direct Support Professionals who are Caring, Compassionate and Dependable team members to assist individuals with Developmental Disabilities. DSPs must be willing to ...

Purpose-SC

Direct Support Professionals

Summerville, SC · On-site

$16/hr

We are looking for Direct Support Professionals to help with our vision: Starting Pay: $16/Hour Purpose- SC is hiring Full Time Direct Support Professionals , to provide assistance to our program ...

Purpose-SC

Direct Support Professionals

Easley, SC · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are looking for Direct Support Professionals to help with our vision: Starting Pay: $16.50/Hour Purpose-SC is hiring Full Time Direct Support Professionals , to provide assistance to our adult ...

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How much do direct support professionals jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professionals in the United States is $16.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the work of a direct support professional?

A direct support professional provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, household tasks, and community participation. They often work in clients' homes or care facilities and may require training or certification in first aid or CPR.

Is DSP a good career?

A career as a Direct Support Professional involves assisting individuals with disabilities in daily activities, often requiring patience, communication skills, and certification. It can be a rewarding job with opportunities for growth and flexible schedules, but it also involves physically and emotionally demanding work. Job satisfaction often depends on personal interests in caregiving and support roles.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Direct Support Professionals typically do not earn $10,000 a month without advanced experience or specialized certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, or skilled trades like plumbing or electrical work, which rely on experience, licensing, and skills rather than formal education.

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 solid understanding of client care, basic healthcare practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation software, incident reporting systems, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal communication, and problem-solving skills help build trust and provide effective support to individuals with disabilities. These skills are essential for ensuring client safety, promoting independence, and fostering a positive, supportive environment.

What are Direct Support Professionals?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. They provide support with personal care, medication management, and skill-building activities to promote independence and community involvement. DSPs work in various settings, including private homes, group homes, and day programs. Their role is crucial in helping individuals achieve their personal goals and live fulfilling lives.

What are some common challenges Direct Support Professionals face when supporting individuals with varying needs, and how can they effectively address them?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as communicating with individuals who have diverse abilities, managing behavioral crises, and adapting support strategies to each person's unique needs. Building trust and using person-centered approaches are key to overcoming these challenges. Effective professionals rely on ongoing training, teamwork, and open communication with supervisors and other care team members to ensure the highest quality of care and safety for those they support.

How much do DSP workers make?

Direct Support Professionals typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $20, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. In some areas, wages may be higher for those with specialized skills or additional certifications, and they often work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.

What is the difference between Direct Support Professionals vs Personal Care Assistants?

AspectDirect Support ProfessionalsPersonal Care Assistants
CertificationsOften require certifications like CPR, First Aid, and sometimes specialized trainingMay require similar certifications, but less frequently mandated
Work EnvironmentAssist individuals with disabilities in community, residential, or healthcare settingsProvide personal care in private homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, government agencies, healthcare providersHome healthcare agencies, private clients, assisted living facilities

Both roles involve providing personal care and support, but Direct Support Professionals typically work with individuals with disabilities in various settings and often require specific certifications. Personal Care Assistants mainly focus on assisting with daily living activities in private homes or healthcare environments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Direct Support Professionals jobs
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What states have the most Direct Support Professionals jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Support Professionals jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professionals jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professionals jobs are:
Direct Support Professionals jobs near you

Direct Support Professionals

Royal Community Support

Plainfield, NJ

$24/hr

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Royal Community Support – Hackensack, NJ

Direct Support Professional (DSP) – Community-Based Support

Are you passionate about helping others live meaningful, independent lives?

Are you looking for a role with growth opportunities and supportive leadership?

Royal Community Support may be the right fit for you.

We provide one-on-one support to adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in their private homes and throughout their community. Our focus is person-centered care, skill-building, and meaningful engagement.

Royal Community Support believes that disability is not a limitation, but a part of human diversity. We are committed to promoting dignity, independence, and inclusion for the individuals we serve.

Position Overview

We are seeking a reliable, energetic, and compassionate Direct Support Professional (DSP) to support an individual living in Plainfield, Union County, NJ.

This is a community-based position. The DSP will provide support in the individual’s home and assist with safe, structured participation in community activities.

The ideal candidate is self-motivated, patient, professional, and comfortable working independently in a one-on-one setting.

Terrence is seeking a dedicated and engaging Direct Support Professional (DSP) to assist him both in the home and within his community. He would benefit from someone who is resourceful, creative, and proactive in identifying enjoyable activities, whether at home or out in the community. The ideal DSP will support meaningful engagement, encourage participation in activities, and help foster a positive and active routine. Terrence is looking for one DSP to provide support six days per week, Monday through Friday and one weekend day.

SCHEDULE:

Monday - Friday

1:00pm -5:00pm

4 hours shift

Saturday OR Sunday

12:00pm - 5:00pm

5 hours shift

25 hours a week

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may include:

Assisting with daily living skills (bathing, dressing, grooming as needed)

Supporting housekeeping tasks (laundry, dishes, tidying, light cleaning)

Preparing meals according to dietary needs

Teaching and reinforcing independent living skills

Following individualized service plans and behavior support strategies

Providing transportation to appointments and community activities

Encouraging participation in social and recreational activities

Promoting safety and well-being at all times

Maintaining professional communication with guardians and agency staff

Individual’s Goals (Customize Per Posting)

The individual is seeking a DSP who is comfortable with:

Building routines and structure

Encouraging independence and participation

Qualifications

Must be 18 years of age or older

High School Diploma or equivalent required

Valid driver’s license with good driving record

Reliable personal vehicle (community-based support required)

Ability to pass background checks and drug screening

Authorized to work legally in the United States

Preferred Qualities:

Person-centered mindset

Professional and positive attitude

Strong communication skills

Ability to work independently

Respectful and open-minded approach to disability support

Benefits

Employees who meet eligibility requirements may receive:

401(k) with company match (after 90-day introductory period)

FREE Dental Insurance

FREE Vision Insurance

FREE Life Insurance

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Health Insurance (eligibility based on hours worked)

Additional benefit details are provided during onboarding.

Compensation

Starting Pay: $22–$28 per hour (based on experience and Individualized Service Plan complexity)

Part-time position

In-person support