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Direct Support Staff Member Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Direct Support Staff

Amston, CT · On-site

$21.66 - $21.92/hr

The Lead Direct Support Staff is responsible for all aspects of resident care as well as for routine maintenance of the residence. This includes responsibility for staff when the Manager is absent ...

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 ...

Direct Support Staff

Swansea, 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 ...

We are currently seeking compassionate and dependable Per Diem Direct Support Staff to join our team. Responsibilities * Support individuals in working toward personal goals and daily independence ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Direct Support Staff

Swansea, 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 ...

Direct Support Staff

Brookline, 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 ...

Direct Support Staff

Franklin, 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 ...

We are currently seeking compassionate and dependable Per Diem Direct Support Staff to join our team. Responsibilities * Support individuals in working toward personal goals and daily independence ...

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 ...

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 ...

We are currently seeking compassionate and dependable Per Diem Direct Support Staff to join our team. Responsibilities * Support individuals in working toward personal goals and daily independence ...

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 ...

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 ...

Direct Support Staff

Norfolk, 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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Direct Support Staff Member information

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

As of Aug 17, 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 a direct support staff member?

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.

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.

How do you become a certified direct support staff member?

To become a certified direct support staff member, individuals typically need to complete required training hours, which may include topics like person-centered planning and safety procedures, and obtain certification through state or employer-sponsored programs. Some states or organizations also require background checks and CPR/First Aid certification before employment.

Is being a direct support staff member a stressful job?

Being a direct support staff member can be stressful due to the physical and emotional demands of assisting individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. The job often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging behaviors, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find the work rewarding and manageable with proper training and support.

What states have the most Direct Support Staff Member jobs?

States with the most job openings for Direct Support Staff Member jobs include:

Lead Direct Support Staff

Network Human Services

Amston, CT • On-site

$21.66 - $21.92/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Do you have a passion for enriching the lives of persons with disabilities?
Join our team today and make a difference!

Pay: Starting at $21.66/hour ranging to $21.92/hour for qualified experience

Shifts Available:

  • 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts
  • Weekdays and weekends

Weekend on-call hours required.


SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY:

The Lead Direct Support Staff is responsible for all aspects of resident care as well as for routine maintenance of the residence. This includes responsibility for staff when the Manager is absent, and to provide supervision to weekend and overnight staff.


WORKING RELATIONSHIP:

The Lead Direct Support Staff reports directly to the Manager for all aspects of the job responsibilities. Develops and maintains relationships with the following:

  • Manager
  • Program Director
  • Direct Support Professional/Co-workers Main Office Administrative Staff Healthcare Consultants
  • Regulatory Agencies Community (neighbors, etc.)
  • Resident's and Resident's family members/guardians

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Associates or Bachelor’s Degree is preferred. High School diploma or GED is required.

2. Obtain and maintain medication certification.

3. Good interpersonal relationships and communication skills.

4. Maturity, good judgment, and ability to handle confidential information.

5. Must be proficient, or become proficient, and maintain proficiency in First­ Aid, CPR, PMT, Abuse/Neglect, DDS Medication Administration and other Resident specific medical and habilitative needs. Attend all required in-services, as well as staff meetings. Must review and follow all Agency policy and procedures.

6. Valid Connecticut Driver License and eligibility for Network, lnc.'s Insurance.

7. Must be physically able to assist residents when necessary (i.e. lifting, using approved adaptive equipment, using approved physical restraint techniques).

8. Must be proficient, or become proficient, and maintain proficiency in the electronic health record system THERAP.


JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

In addition to responsibilities of Direct Support Staff, the Lead Direct Support Staff shall have the following responsibilities:

  • With Manager, arrange and monitor schedule and staffing patterns including emergency coverage/shift coverage.
  • Oversee monthly recreation and leisure schedules.
  • Replace and refill all forms: data collection and medical.
  • Assist with the orientation and training of all new staff.
  • Oversee client programming during Manager's off-hours.
  • Provide on-call coverage when the Manager is off duty and not on call. Generally starting at 4pm on Fridays until 8am on Mondays.
  • Attend medical and dental appointments as needed.
  • Consult with the Manager weekly on operation of the house.
  • In the absence of the Manager, complete Manager's tasks as needed (i.e. fiscal, personnel and resident paperwork, staff supervision, consultation with Program Director).
  • To be a role model for co-workers.
  • Participate in ongoing managerial training.
  • Supervise and train direct support staff as designated by Manager. Assist the Manager with appropriate disciplinary action for staff when necessary. Supervise overnight and weekend staff; including periodic visits and phone calls.
  • Oversee Safety Committee Responsibilities with assistance of Manager.
  • Assist Manager with medication administrator compliance.
  • Become familiar with Agency Policy and Procedure and ensure staff compliance.
  • Reviews and documents appropriate resident and residence electronic health records. Runs and reviews necessary weekly reports on THERAP.
  • Reviews all participant data for accuracy and completion on a regular basis. Provide staff training and feedback on data as needed. Implement and follow-up on electronic documentation as available.
  • Responsible for planning and overseeing participant recreational in-house activities, community outings, attendance, daily routines and programming.
  • Along with staff, identify participant interest, likes/dislikes, social skills and abilities in assisting Manager in the development of person centered goals.
  • Attend participant interdisciplinary team meetings as deemed necessary per the Manager.
  • Other responsibilities as deemed necessary.