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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Kahului, HI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Kahului, HI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Kahului, HI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Kahului, HI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Kahului, HI · On-site

$15 - $18.25/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Kahului, HI

$15 - $18.25/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Our Direct Support Professional promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and ... Exercise patience and understanding working with participants of many skill levels and individual ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Our Direct Support Professional promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and ... Exercise patience and understanding working with participants of many skill levels and individual ...

Direct Support Professional

Keaau, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Our Direct Support Professional promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and ... Exercise patience and understanding working with participants of many skill levels and individual ...

Direct Support Professional

Keaau, HI

$14.75 - $18/hr

Our Direct Support Professional promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and ... Exercise patience and understanding working with participants of many skill levels and individual ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI

$14.75 - $18/hr

Our Direct Support Professional promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and ... Exercise patience and understanding working with participants of many skill levels and individual ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI

$14.75 - $18/hr

Our Direct Support Professional promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and ... Exercise patience and understanding working with participants of many skill levels and individual ...

Direct Support Professional

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Our Direct Support Professional promote the individual growth of program participants in a safe and ... Exercise patience and understanding working with participants of many skill levels and individual ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support Worker information

See Hawaii salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker in Hawaii is $16.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.22 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.

What are the duties of a direct support worker?

A direct support worker provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, helping with daily activities such as personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation. They also support clients in developing independence and social skills, often working in community or residential settings and following care plans under supervision.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Worker jobs in HI?

For Direct Support Worker jobs in HI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,952 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Catalight

Honolulu, HI

$14.75 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Are you a self-motivated and reliable person who can work with adults with disabilities while helping them develop their skills and grow? Then we need you! At Easterseals Hawaii, we are dedicated to serving people with disabilities and building communities of Aloha where everyone has the ability to live independent, fulfilling lives. 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 increasing the participant's options, opportunities, and community integration with daily life in support of our mission to make a positive difference. Depending on the needs of the program and the candidate's availability, Direct Support Workers are assigned to a facility or in-home based clientele. Our skilled staff will provide you with the training you need to feel comfortable and confident in all aspects of the role.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Support participants to achieve the highest level of independence possible in pursuit of their definition of a "good life."
  • Provide input on and implement the participant's Individual Plan.
  • Follow organizational guidelines to promote the participant's health and safety.
  • Monitor, respond to and report issues of concern to the Case Coordinator or other supervisor.
  • Provide personal care and assist with daily living activities (toileting, dressing, feeding, etc.) as needed, while respecting the participant's privacy and confidentiality.
  • Accurately complete all participant-related data and documentation by the assigned deadline via a web-based platform.
  • Accurately submit timesheets, leave requests, required credentialing documents, work related training and other required paperwork by the assigned deadline via the Family of Company's (FoC) web-based platforms.
  • Attend and participate in department meetings and trainings as required.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Assist in maintaining a clean, hygienic, and safe environment.
  • Respond appropriately and immediately to emergencies as defined in the Family of Companies (FoC) Operational procedures.
  • Report any safety concerns to the Program Manager or other supervisor
  • Handle multiple tasks, adhere to deadlines, and process urgent projects while paying attention to detail.
  • Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Education, Experience & Training Equivalent to:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High School diploma, General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or equivalent
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Exercise patience and understanding working with participants of many skill levels and individual needs.
  • Be culturally respectful while working with an ethnically, linguistically, and economically diverse population.
  • Communicate effectively (verbally and written), and read, using the primary language within the workplace.
  • Exercise confidentiality and discretion pertaining to the work environment as required by HIPPA.
  • Be committed to the values of the organization while demonstrating good judgment, flexibility, and discretion when dealing with confidential and sensitive matters.
  • Operating knowledge of a computer, iPad or tablet, applications and software, standard office equipment and Microsoft (Outlook, Word, and Excel). Must be able to use an iPhone or work cell phone if applicable.
  • Ability to work comfortably with individuals at all levels within the organization.
Physical Requirements:
  • Frequent bending, reaching, squatting, kneeling, twisting when working with participants.
  • Responsive to audio and visual cues from participants and their families, other staff members, and the environment
  • Work calmly during behavioral and health-related incidents.
  • Use logic and reasoning for anticipating future needs, goals, and events.
  • Stand or sit for extended periods of time, stand for up to 6-8 hours a day.
  • Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and loading of materials up to and including 50lbs.
  • Provide assistance during transfers when applicable. Some participants may require the use of a Hoyer lift for transfers.
  • Frequent driving (to and from office, the community, and participants' homes) when applicable.
  • Work at participants' homes, community settings, and ESH facility, depending on assignment.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
  • Ability to obtain and maintain criminal record clearance through the Department of Justice (DOJ). The People & Performance Department must analyze DOJ/FBI live scan reports in accordance with applicable Federal, State, and Local laws, as well as fitness for the position.
  • Reliable transportation needed.
  • (For locations where driving is required) Must have a valid Driver's License with Insurance, proof of current vehicle registration and safety check; maintain a clean driving record.
  • Must pass health screenings, obtain vaccinations and clear TB testing based on company policies. Freedom from any communicable disease or medical conditions that would interfere with the physical requirements of this position.
  • Obtain and maintain clearance through the Office of Inspector General.
  • Obtain and maintain current First Aid and CPR certification.
  • Must attend all required training.

Time Type:

Part time
Compensation:
$17.50-18.50 Hourly

The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job. It should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas as deemed fit for the organization.


Easterseals Hawaii is an equal opportunity employer.