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Direct Support Staff Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

FREE AIR LIFE

Support Staff

Visalia, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Perform all direct service tasks as required * Minimize risks of endangerment to the health, safety ... Implementing and documenting all support services * Attend required agency staff meetings and in ...

ETTA

Farsi Speaking Support Staff

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Seeking Farsi Speaking Applicants with the Following Experience:→ Special Needs Staff→ Direct Support Professionals→ Caregivers→ Support Staff for Adults with Special Needs→ Experience with ...

FREE AIR LIFE

Support Staff

Visalia, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Perform all direct service tasks as required * Minimize risks of endangerment to the health, safety ... Implementing and documenting all support services * Attend required agency staff meetings and in ...

ETTA

Direct Support Professional

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Support Aide for Nonverbal Autistic UCLA StudentETTA is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP ... Our staff works one-on-one with individuals in the I/DD community, engaging, guiding, and inspiring ...

Modern Support Services

$20 - $25/hr

Direct Support Professional - Granada Hills Company Overview We are a diverse, mission-driven human ... Working in an energetic, team-oriented environment, our staff collaborate closely to provide person ...

Modern Support Services

$20 - $25/hr

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

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Direct Support Staff information

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How much do direct support staff jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support staff 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 is a direct support staff?

Direct Support Staff are professionals who assist individuals with disabilities or special needs in their daily lives. Their responsibilities often include helping clients with personal care, daily activities, medication management, and community participation. They also provide emotional support and help promote independence, safety, and well-being. Direct Support Staff work in a variety of settings such as group homes, day programs, or private residences, and play a key role in enhancing the quality of life for those they support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support staff?

To thrive as a Direct Support Staff, you need a solid understanding of person-centered care, basic healthcare practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation software, care planning tools, and CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication skills help build trusting relationships with clients and support their independence. These skills are crucial for ensuring the well-being, dignity, and quality of life of individuals with disabilities or special needs.

What are some common challenges faced by direct support staff and how can new hires prepare for them?

Direct Support Staff often encounter challenges such as managing clients' unpredictable behaviors, balancing multiple responsibilities, and maintaining clear communication with team members and families. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with person-centered care approaches, participating actively in training sessions, and seeking guidance from experienced colleagues. Building patience, adaptability, and strong communication skills can help ensure success and provide the best support to individuals with disabilities.

Is a direct support staff a good career?

A career as a direct support staff involves assisting individuals with disabilities or special needs, often requiring strong communication and patience. It can be a rewarding job with opportunities for growth, and many positions offer flexible schedules and training requirements. Job stability depends on the setting and demand for support services in the community or healthcare sector.

What cities in California are hiring for Direct Support Staff jobs?

Cities in California with the most Direct Support Staff job openings:

Direct Support Staff jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Staff job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,428 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Support Staff

FREE AIR LIFE

Visalia, CA • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Our Mission and Philosophy:
Personal choice, community involvement, and dignity while thriving in a caring and respectful atmosphere. These four principles make up the hallmark of Free Air Life’s philosophy. Based on the above four principles; our Supplemental Support Program is designed to assist adults with intellectual disabilities live and thrive in the community, achieve their goal and sustain good health. The Supplemental Support Program will provide assistance to adults with moderate to severe deficits in self-help skills; and/or with moderate to severe behavioral challenges. Our program is also geared to serve adults who may have a mental illness and in need of proper support to live successfully in the community. The program will enable individuals to overcome barriers at home or out in the community and be integrated into everyday living situations, such as attending school, educational programs, public services, after-school programs, and recreational activities.
Lines of Supervision and Specifics:
Job Title: Supportive Living Services Staff
Reports to: Case Manager
Supervises: N/A
Location: Tulare and Kings County (Visalia, Porterville, Kingsburg, Hanford, etc.)
Terms: Full or Part time. Schedule will be according to the needs of the Individual.
Job Description:
Supportive Living Services Staff will:
  • Assist individuals and their families coordinate and schedule the services they receive
  • Provide information regarding the individuals diagnosis and assist with future planning
  • Coordinate training in areas needed for the people who support that individual
  • Help identify transportation, back up providers, and help individuals and their family/caregiver learn about self-advocacy groups in their area.
  • CFS will be provided in the individual’s primary language and in a way to respect their culture.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for providing personal support service, which may include assistance in maintaining physical space, equipment to ensure a high quality and safe living environment, and 24-hour emergency assistance.
  • Assist in all routinely required tasks for operation of the home and assistance of individuals (i.e. cooking, shopping, transportation, cleaning, personal relationships, financial, self-advocacy needs, etc.).
  • Assist new alternates in proper methods of providing services.
  • Perform all direct service tasks as required
  • Minimize risks of endangerment to the health, safety and wellbeing of individuals.
  • Have responsibility for carrying out and delivering required assistance and services in accordance with individual service plan
  • Implementing and documenting all support services
  • Attend required agency staff meetings and in-service training
  • Maintain appropriate and professional relationships with peers, consultants, individuals and the community
  • Provide timely and appropriate written and/or verbal reports to CFS Supervisor regarding significant issues, concerns, needs, or problems regarding individual care, household maintenance, and new services
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must possess a valid California Driver’s License and automobile insurance
  • Must have a minimum of one year experience as a Support Staff
  • Must possess a valid CPR/FA certificate or obtain one within one month of beginning employment
  • Required to pass a background check
  • Must possess the capability of preparing written and verbal reports
  • Required to have open availability