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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

One Hope United

Support Worker

Homestead, FL

$18/hr

The Support Worker is responsible for the daily management of a therapeutic residential living ... Direct experience working in a structured, trauma‑informed environment We Invest in You!

onehopeunited

Support Worker

Homestead, FL · On-site

$18/hr

The Support Worker is responsible for the daily management of a therapeutic residential living ... • Direct experience working in a structured, trauma-informed environment We Invest in You!

onehopeunited

Support Worker

Wesley Chapel, FL · On-site

$18/hr

The Support Worker is responsible for the daily management of a therapeutic residential living ... • Direct experience working in a structured, trauma-informed environment We Invest in You!

One Hope United

Support Worker

Deland, FL

$15 - $18/hr

The Support Worker is responsible for the daily management of a therapeutic residential living ... Direct experience working in a structured, trauma‑informed environment We Invest in You!

onehopeunited

Support Worker

Deland, FL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The Support Worker is responsible for the daily management of a therapeutic residential living ... • Direct experience working in a structured, trauma-informed environment We Invest in You!

One More Child

Family Support Worker

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER JOB IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION Department: Family Support JOB SUMMARY The ... Meets with Director of Family Support on a weekly basis for supervision to review cases, training ...

MyFlorida

FOOD SUPPORT WORKER - 50000151

Land O Lakes, FL · On-site

$34K/yr

FOOD SUPPORT WORKER - 50000151 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 50000151 Salary: 34,760.18 ... Incumbent will work under the supervision of the Food Service Director with direct supervision from ...

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Direct Support Worker information

See Florida salary details

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$12

$15

How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker in Florida is $12.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.77 and $13.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Direct Support Workers?

Direct Support Workers are professionals who assist individuals with disabilities, mental health issues, or developmental challenges in their daily lives. They help clients with tasks such as personal care, household chores, medication management, and community activities to promote independence and quality of life. Direct Support Workers often work in homes, group settings, or community organizations and play a vital role in supporting clients' physical, emotional, and social well-being.

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.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Direct Support Worker typically earns less than $4,000 per week; high-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree include specialized sales, real estate brokers, certain skilled trades like commercial pilots or construction managers, and entrepreneurship. These positions often require experience, certifications, or licenses rather than formal degrees.

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 is the main role of a direct support worker?

A direct support worker provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, household tasks, and community engagement. They often work in clients' homes or care facilities and may require training in first aid, communication, and behavior management.

How much does a DSP make?

A Direct Support Worker (DSP) in Connecticut typically earns between $14 and $18 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific employer. The average annual salary ranges from approximately $29,000 to $37,000. Many DSPs work part-time or full-time, often requiring CPR and first aid certifications.

Is a degree needed to be a DSP?

A degree is not typically required to become a Direct Support Worker (DSP), but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills such as communication, patience, and experience with caregiving or support work are often more important, and some positions may require certification or training programs.

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.

More about Direct Support Worker jobs
What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Worker jobs in FL? For Direct Support Worker jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Direct Support Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $25,140 per year, or $12.1 per hour.
Support Worker

Support Worker

One Hope United

Homestead, FL

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

One Hope United rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Support Worker is responsible for the daily management of a therapeutic residential living environment at our Hope house Homestead, FL. The support worker promotes the learning of skills for emotional, mental, and physical health; provides a therapeutic, safe, and structured environment, as specified, in each youth’s Individual Treatment Plan.

Job Duties Include:
  • Provides supervision of youth in accordance with OHU and DCF policies
  • Maintains a therapeutic home Interactions with all clients reflect a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach
  • Teaches, models, and participates in individual and group instruction in daily living, recreational activities, social skills, emotional regulation skills, and independent living skills as prescribed by each youth’s Individual Treatment Plan and the OHU Residential Program Plan.
  • Continually trains and maintains certification in the implementation of Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) or other approved behavior modification program
  • Follows OHU Residential Program Plan, including daily schedule, administration of expectations and associated consequences, and mental health treatment of youth in residential care
  • Demonstrates the highest investment in and commitment to quality improvement practices in order to continuously improve the delivery of services to our clients
  • Maintains a spirit of teamwork with other residential home staff; this includes attending weekly team meetings and staffing's, as required
  • Attends meetings, training, seminars, and conferences as assigned by supervisory or administrative staff
  • Transports clients (youth) and their families to mandated court hearings, school appointments, doctor appointments or other case related appointments
  • Completes all documentation required for the position in a timely and accurate manner
  • Abides by client and program confidentiality to the highest standard
Qualifications
Education
  • High School Diploma or GED
Other
  • Minimum 21 years of age
  • Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record with OHU required levels of coverage for auto insurance
  • DCF background check amp; approval to transport youth
Required Skills
1–2 years of experience working with children, adolescents, or young adults, preferably in:
  • Residential treatment centers
  • Group homes
  • Foster care or child welfare programs
  • Juvenile justice or diversion programs
  • Mental health or behavioral health settings
· Experience supporting youth with behavioral, emotional, or developmental challenges
· Hands‑on experience with behavior management, crisis intervention, or de‑escalation techniques
· Experience maintaining documentation, incident reports, and daily activity logs
· Direct experience working in a structured, trauma‑informed environment
We Invest in You!
  • Tuition assistance up to $2500 per year
  • Up to 4 weeks paid Vacation Days, up to 6 paid Personal Days, and up to 5 paid Sick days annually
  • Medical, dental, vision, 403b Retirement, flexible spending accounts, health savings account, and short-term disability options
  • Agency paid life up to $50K based on salary
  • Voluntary Supplemental Life for Employee, Spouse, and Child(ren)
  • Voluntary Legal Plans
  • Agency paid long term after 1 year of employment
  • Career ladders, professional development, and promotion opportunities
  • Free LCSW and LCPC Supervision hours available in some locations
A Different Kind of Employer One Hope United is strong and ready to grow. Are you ready to grow with us?
  • 800+ talented professionals strong, serving 10,000 children and families in Illinois, and Florida
  • Fiscally stable, $70 Million agency-- strong since 1895
  • Energetic leadership and a rich community of support
One Hope United does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. One Hope United is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. OHU participates in E-Verify.
In the spirit of caring for one another and our community, please note that upon accepting an offer of employment from One Hope United, you will be required to share proof of a COVID-19 vaccination. The requirement is subject to accommodation in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

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