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Direct Support Professionals Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Chico, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Chico, CA. If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be one, this is the ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Redding, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

We are seeking Caregivers / Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Redding, CA . If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Redding, CA

$17.50/hr

We are seeking Caregivers / Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Redding, CA . If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be ...

Modern Support Services

$20 - $25/hr

Direct Support Professional Company Overview We are a mission-driven human services organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Redding, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

We are seeking Caregivers / Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Redding, CA . If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Redding, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

We are seeking Caregivers / Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our team at our program in Redding, CA . If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health aide or always wanted to be ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Redding, CA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Day , Evenings, PRN, and Mixed Shifts Merakey is Hiring Direct Support Professionals! Merakey, a leading non-profit provider of developmental and behavioral health services, is seeking mission-driven ...

Elwyn

Direct Support Professional

Granada Hills, CA · On-site

$23/hr

Elwyn seeks Direct Support Professionals to work with our team in residential group homes. Primary Function * Direct Support Professional staff provide assistance and supervise residents in ...

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Direct Support Professionals information

See California salary details

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How much do direct support professionals jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professionals in California is $16.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professionals jobs in California? For Direct Support Professionals jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professionals jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professionals jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Direct Support Professionals jobs? Cities in California with the most Direct Support Professionals job openings:
Direct Support Professionals jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professionals job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,428 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

ALEGRIA COMMUNITY LIVING

Union City, CA

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

URGENTLY Hiring Direct Support Professionals/Caregivers!

Following schedule available: Monday - Friday 6 am - 2 pm, Day Program shift.

In October and November 2023 you will be eligible for a $300.00 sign-on bonus after completing 90 days in the position! Offering 100% paid Medical benefits for FT employees (eligible plans) after the waiting period and dependent benefits with a small contribution, dental, HSA with employer contribution, 3 paid flex days, paid vacation for all employees, and more.

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver
Exciting Opportunity!

  • UNIQUE non-profit in a supportive work environment!
  • Small 3 or 4 person homes in beautiful communities.

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver Reports to: Home Administrator and Lead Staff

Hourly Wage: Starting at $19.00

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver Benefits: Eligible employees are offered:

  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Paid time off
  • HSA employer contribution
  • Life Insurance paid by employer
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Continuous training opportunities and more!

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver Responsibilities:

  • Assist residents in all personal grooming such as bathing, toileting, dressing, medical/ dental needs including transporting clients to medical, dental, social activities, and other appointments.
  • Monitor physical and emotional wellness of residents, immediately report changes in status and maintain files regarding residents’ health.
  • Prepare meals and store food in compliance with all regulations and program outline and maintain proper sanitation of home and surroundings.
  • Prepare daily documentation of status and changes as related to residents’ goals.
  • Assist in maintenance of administrative records, resident files, home inventories, and weekly schedules as needed.

Direct Support Professional/Caregiver Job Requirements:

  • Prior experience providing direct care and supervision to persons with special needs preferred.
  • Minimum age 18 and a High school diploma or GED certificate
  • Health screen, TB clearance and fingerprinting
  • Valid and current California driver’s license and clear driving record
  • Ability to lift 75 lbs. (to transfer individuals)

Alegria is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply Now: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs?clientkey=AC04178F1C34704B0A3B6CF40A19A73B

COVID-19 considerations:
We are an essential business and part of the healthcare industry.

Apply