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Direct Support Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Catalight

Direct Support Worker

Waimea, HI · On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

Our Direct Support Workers promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and positive learning environment (either in a program, community, or home-based setting) with a focus on ...

Catalight

Direct Support Worker

Waimea, HI · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Our Direct Support Workers promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and positive learning environment (either in a program, community, or home-based setting) with a focus on ...

Easterseals Hawaii

Direct Support Worker

Ewa Beach, HI · On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

Our Direct Support Workers promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and positive learning environment (either in a program, community, or home-based setting) with a focus on ...

Catalight

Direct Support Worker

Kahului, HI · On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

Our Direct Support Workers promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and positive learning environment (either in a program, community, or home-based setting) with a focus on ...

GT Independence

Direct Support Worker (Caregiver)

Bend, OR · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

We are looking for compassionate and reliable Direct Support Workers/Caregivers to support individuals who self-direct their services. In this role, you will work directly with the person receiving ...

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How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker 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 worker?

As a direct support worker, you provide care and training for people with developmental disabilities. You offer community support by using your skills and experience to help individuals become more active and social. Some direct support workers provide live-in, 24-hour support for clients, while others provide care on a regular, but less constant, basis. A career as a direct support worker requires you have some formal qualifications and education, typically a bachelor’s degree in health, counseling, or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Worker, you need a foundational understanding of person-centered care, basic health and safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation systems, assistive technology, and first aid/CPR certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to communicate compassionately make someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial to effectively support individuals with disabilities, ensure their well-being, and foster independence in daily living.

What are some common challenges faced by direct support workers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Direct Support Workers often encounter challenges such as managing clients with complex behavioral or medical needs and adapting to varying routines. Effective communication, patience, and ongoing training are essential in navigating these situations. Building strong, trusting relationships with clients and collaborating closely with families and healthcare professionals can also help manage difficulties. Many organizations provide regular supervision and access to support networks, which can be valuable resources for addressing workplace challenges.

What is the difference between Direct Support Worker vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support WorkerPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires certifications like CPR, First Aid, and sometimes specialized trainingMay require similar certifications, especially First Aid and CPR, but less specialized training
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities, mental health, or developmental needs in community or residential settingsProvides personal care services in clients' homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome healthcare agencies, private households, healthcare facilities

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Workers typically work with people with disabilities or mental health needs in community settings, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal care in home or healthcare environments. The certifications and work environments overlap, but the focus and client needs differ slightly.

Where do direct support workers get paid the most?

Direct support workers tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with higher minimum wages. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence pay rates, with some private agencies offering higher compensation than public programs.
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Direct Support Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,642 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Direct Support Worker

Goodwill Industries of Hawaii, Inc

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$16.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

 
 

Goodwill Industries of Hawaii, Inc.

 Job Title:            Direct Support Worker

At Goodwill, we do more than provide jobs — we create pathways to opportunity and dignity through the power of work. Our mission-driven culture sets us apart, and every role directly supports individuals in achieving self-sufficiency and success. When you join Goodwill, you're not just building a career — you're changing lives.

 So, join the Goodwill Hawaii family and help strengthen our community, one job at a time!

 

SUMMARY 

As a Direct Support Worker, you will be responsible for providing compassionate care and assistance to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Direct Support Worker supports participants in achieving greater independence, personal growth, and community integration through person-centered services. Working collaboratively with the Service Coordinator, Program Coordinator, and Director of IDS, the Direct Support Worker ensures the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served while upholding the mission and values of Goodwill Hawaii.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. 

  • Provide direct support to individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities in various settings.
  • Empower participants to make informed decisions and build everyday living and community skills.
  • Communicate effectively using respectful verbal and non-verbal strategies and active listening.
  • Assist with assessments and person-centered planning to develop, implement, and review individual service plans.
  • Support participants in achieving personal goals, independence, and desired outcomes.
  • Help build formal and informal support networks by connecting participants with community resources and services.
  • Provide assistance with physical and personal care needs while promoting relationship-building and self-sufficiency.
  • Advocate for participants’ individual, legal, and administrative rights.
  • Implement positive prevention strategies and crisis interventions as needed.
  • Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential documentation and reports.
  • Encourage exploration of employment opportunities, identify barriers, and support career planning.
  • Provide transportation and maintain accurate mileage and ride records.
  • Participate in ongoing professional development and job performance improvement.
  • Follow safety standards and procedures, using protective equipment when required. 

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE 

  • High school diploma or GED required, or employer-provided written attestation confirming qualifications.
  • No prior experience required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS 

  • Travel is required, must have a valid driver’s license and access to an insured vehicle.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be able to meet the physical demands of the role, with reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.
  • Regularly required to talk and hear.
  • Frequently required to stand, walk, and sit.
  • Occasionally required to reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Frequently lift/move up to 25 pounds and up to 50 pounds with assistance.
  • Requires close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT  

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work environment includes frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions and moderate noise levels.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
  • Regular attendance and punctuality are required.
  • Core hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Must be flexible to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
  • Some positions (e.g., PAB/CLS-I) require flexible schedules Monday–Sunday with varied hours.
  • Travel is required.

Goodwill Hawaii is committed to fully complying with all Equal Opportunity Employment and Affirmative Action laws and regulations.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, including gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, genetic information, domestic or sexual violence victim status, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. We also foster a drug-free work environment.