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Direct Support Staff Member Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advocates

Direct Support Staff

Gardner, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates

Direct Support Staff

North Grafton, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Support Staff

Gardner, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates

Direct Support Staff

West Boylston, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Support Staff

West Boylston, MA

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates

Direct Support Staff

Holliston, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Support Staff

Swansea, MA

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Support Staff

West Boylston, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates

Direct Support Staff

Somerset, MA

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Support Staff

Holliston, MA

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Danville Services

Direct Support Staff

Riverton, UT · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Direct Support Staff (DSP) - Make a Difference Daily! Join our team and support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living independent, meaningful lives in their own homes and ...

Danville Services

Direct Support Staff

Heber, UT · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Direct Support Staff (DSP) - Make a Difference Daily! Join our team and support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living independent, meaningful lives in their own homes and ...

Danville Services

Direct Support Staff

Heber, UT · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Direct Support Staff (DSP) - Make a Difference Daily! Join our team and support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living independent, meaningful lives in their own homes and ...

Advocates

Direct Support Staff

Littleton, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Advocates

Direct Support Staff

Blackstone, MA

$18.50/hr

As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the ...

Danville Services

Direct Support Staff

Midvale, UT · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Direct Support Staff (DSP) - Make a Difference Daily! Join our team and support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living independent, meaningful lives in their own homes and ...

Danville Services

Direct Support Staff

Midvale, UT · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Direct Support Staff (DSP) - Make a Difference Daily! Join our team and support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living independent, meaningful lives in their own homes and ...

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How much do direct support staff member jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support staff member in the United States is $16.17, 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 role of a direct support staff?

A direct support staff member provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them with daily activities, personal care, and community integration. They often work in settings such as homes, group homes, or community programs and may require training in first aid, CPR, and behavior management. Their role focuses on promoting independence and ensuring safety for those they support.

What are some common challenges faced by Direct Support Staff Members, and how can they effectively manage them?

Direct Support Staff Members often encounter challenges such as supporting individuals with diverse needs, managing behavioral issues, and balancing multiple responsibilities in fast-paced environments. Effective communication, patience, and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges. Collaborating closely with team members and utilizing available training resources can help staff provide high-quality care while maintaining a positive work environment.

What are Direct Support Staff Members?

Direct Support Staff Members are professionals who assist individuals with developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities in daily living activities and community participation. They help clients with personal care, medication management, transportation, and skill development to promote independence and well-being. These staff members play a crucial role in supporting individuals to achieve their personal goals and lead fulfilling lives. They often work in group homes, residential facilities, or clients’ own homes, providing both emotional and practical support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Support Staff Member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Staff Member, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving skills, and knowledge of safety protocols when assisting individuals with disabilities or special needs. Familiarity with care documentation systems and, in some cases, CPR/First Aid certification are typically important. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help you build trust and provide effective support. These skills ensure the physical and emotional well-being of clients while fostering independence and maintaining a safe, positive environment.
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Direct Support Staff Member jobs near you
Direct Support Staff

Direct Support Staff

Advocates

Gardner, MA • On-site

$18.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Overview
Starting Rate: $18.50/hour
Schedule: Friday 3-11pm and Saturday 9am-11pm
We're looking for enthusiastic, compassionate, and motivated team players to provide meaningful support to individuals in a residential setting. If you're ready to start-or grow! - your career in human services, this is a great opportunity to make a real impact every day.
As a Direct Support Staff, you'll provide hands-on support, guidance, and encouragement to adults with developmental disabilities. This is an entry-level role with meaningful responsibilities and the chance to build lasting relationships. In this role, you'll assist individuals with daily living activities, such as personal care, meals, routines and community outings - while helping them build skills and independence.
Direct support professionals at Advocates enjoy a supportive environment, opportunities for advancement, and a strong commitment to work-life balance.
Who We Are
At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges.
We're a nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.
At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive.
Are you ready to make a difference?
Minimum Education Required
High School Diploma/GED
Responsibilities
  • Provide daily support at home and in the community
  • Help plan and implement daily routines and activities
  • Support individuals in setting and achieving person-centered goals
  • Encourage participation in community and social opportunities
  • Support household cleaning and maintenance tasks
  • Document observations, progress, and any concerns
  • Implement established treatment and support plans
  • Provide physical intervention in crisis situations when necessary
  • Maintain required certifications (CPR/First Aid, MAP, SOLVE, HR/DPPC)
  • Ensure individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and in alignment with Human Rights policies

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Experience in human services or with similar populations preferred
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and coaching skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented, person-centered environment
  • Basic computer skills required
  • Valid driver's license, reliable vehicle, and willingness to transport individuals
  • Commitment to supporting culturally diverse populations

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience

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