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Direct Support Professionals Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Platts Family Residential Services

Be Seen First

Direct Support Professional

Hampton, VA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Title Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Summary A Direct ... Communicate effectively with supervisors, families, and healthcare professionals * Complete ...

Platts Family Residential Services

Be Seen First

Direct Support Professional

Hampton, VA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Title Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Summary A Direct ... Communicate effectively with supervisors, families, and healthcare professionals * Complete ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Aylett, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals/Team Associates to join our team in our Aylett, Virginia location. If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health Aide this is the opportunity for ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Aylett, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

We are seeking Direct Support Professionals/Team Associates to join our team in our Aylett, Virginia location. If you are a Caregiver, Direct Care Worker, Home Health Aide this is the opportunity for ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professionals JobsDirect Support Professionals Jobs in Virginia

Direct Support Professionals information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support professionals jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professionals in Virginia is $16.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 these roles. Additionally, certifications and experience can influence salary levels across different locations.

What do you do as a direct support professional?

A direct support professional provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs to help them live independently and participate in daily activities. Their duties include personal care, medication management, skill development, and ensuring safety, often working in clients' homes or community settings. They may also document progress and communicate with families or healthcare teams, typically requiring training and certifications such as CPR and first aid.

What qualifications do I need for a direct support professional job?

To become a direct support professional, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to complete training or certification in areas such as first aid, CPR, or behavioral support. Some positions also require background checks and good communication skills to work effectively with individuals with disabilities or special needs.

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 Virginia?

For Direct Support Professionals jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professionals jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professionals jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Direct Support Professionals jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Direct Support Professionals job openings:

Direct Support Professionals jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professionals job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,581 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Platts Family Residential Services

Hampton, VA • On-site

$17.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

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Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Job Description

Job Title

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Job Summary

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, or physical disabilities. DSPs assist clients with daily living activities, promote independence, ensure safety, and support community involvement while maintaining dignity and respect for each individual served.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:

    • Bathing

    • Dressing

    • Grooming

    • Toileting

    • Meal preparation

  • Administer or assist with medication as directed

  • Support individuals with community outings, appointments, and recreational activities

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment

  • Monitor and document client behaviors, progress, and incidents

  • Follow individualized service plans and care plans

  • Assist with mobility and transfers when needed

  • Encourage independence and social interaction

  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, families, and healthcare professionals

  • Complete required documentation accurately and on time

  • Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries

  • Respond appropriately during emergencies or behavioral situations

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required

  • Previous caregiving or direct support experience preferred

  • CPR/First Aid certification preferred

  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation preferred

  • Ability to pass background check and drug screening

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

  • Compassionate, patient, and dependable

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds

  • Ability to assist clients with transfers and mobility

  • Ability to work flexible schedules including weekends and holidays if needed

Skills

  • Compassion and empathy

  • Patience and professionalism

  • Time management

  • Crisis intervention

  • Team collaboration

  • Documentation and observation skills

Work Environment

DSPs may work in:

  • Residential group homes

  • Private homes

  • Day programs

  • Community settings

  • Assisted living environments

Short Version for Job Posting

We are seeking compassionate and dependable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to assist individuals with daily living activities and promote independence in a safe and supportive environment. Responsibilities include personal care assistance, medication reminders, documentation, community support, and maintaining client safety. Previous caregiving experience is required.