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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

ARCO

Direct Support Worker (Full-Time)

Monroe, LA

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Worker (DSW) employee to join our team. DSWs are responsible for providing support and assistance to individuals with I/DD. The DSW ...

ARCO

Direct Support Worker (Weekends)

Monroe, LA

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Worker (DSW) employee to join our team. DSWs are responsible for providing support and assistance to individuals with I/DD. The DSW ...

ARCO

Direct Support Worker (Part-Time)

Monroe, LA

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Worker (DSW) employee to join our team. DSWs are responsible for providing support and assistance to individuals with I/DD. The DSW ...

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Direct Support Worker information

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How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker in Louisiana is $13.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $15.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 cities in Louisiana are hiring for Direct Support Worker jobs?

Cities in Louisiana with the most Direct Support Worker job openings:

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

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

Direct Support Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,768 per year, or $13.8 per hour.

DSW (Direct Support Worker)

AFNB Home Care Inc

Lafayette, LA • On-site

$10.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description:

Who we are:

A First Name Basis (AFNB) is one of the fastest-growing in-home care providers in the region, with 40+ offices across four states. We’re reimagining what it means to serve seniors and individuals with disabilities—by building strong caregiver careers, implementing smart clinical and scheduling systems, and ensuring compliance and care quality are never compromised.


Why join us?

We believe in providing care that feels like family. We are looking for dedicated caregivers who want to make a difference in the lives of seniors and individuals with disabilities across Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, and South Carolina. Join a team that values compassion, respect, and teamwork.


Title: DSW (Direct Support Worker)

Location: Marksville, LA; Bunkie, LA; Simmesport, LA

Schedule: Full Time, Part Time, PRN,

Compensation: $10.50/hr


Responsibilities:

  • Provide personal care support including bathing, grooming, dressing, oral hygiene, toileting, etc.
  • Provide companionship and emotional support
  • Light housekeeping and meal preparation and assist with feeding as needed
  • Medication reminders and accompany clients to appointments
  • Monitor and report changes in client health and well-being
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly client environment
  • Ensure proper use of safety equipment
  • Document care provided according to company and regulatory standards
  • Travel reliably to patient homes and assigned visits across the service area
  • Complete required in-service training upon hire and annually
  • Ability to follow written care instructions and document services provided

Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly pay with overtime opportunities
  • Daily pay available
  • Flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle
  • Supportive and respectful team environment
  • 401(k) + employer match


Requirements:

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid ID and reliable transportation, and ability to travel to client homes
  • Ability to pass pre-employment screenings: background check and drug screen
  • Willingness to complete competency and skills assessments
  • Ability to work independently in home settings
  • Willingness to complete background screening and all onboarding requirements
  • A kind heart and a positive attitude, with compassion, patience, and professionalism with vulnerable populations

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift, transfer, and reposition clients weighing up to 50 lbs., with or without assistive equipment (gait belt, Hoyer lift).
  • Prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and stooping throughout shifts ranging from 4–12 hours.
  • Sufficient strength and stamina to assist with client mobility, including navigating stairs, uneven surfaces, and vehicle transfers.
  • Ability to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach.
  • Fine motor dexterity to assist with grooming, dressing, feeding, medication management, and operation of medical equipment.
  • Adequate vision and hearing to monitor client safety and detect changes in condition.
  • Ability to perform light household tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and carrying groceries.
  • Ability to work in a private home environment, including navigating varying layouts, tight spaces, and differing temperatures.

Preferred:

  • Active Home Health Aide or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.
  • Previous DSW (Direct Service Worker) Experience.
  • Previous Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Experience.

If you're ready to be the difference maker in someone's life — Apply today or drop in and see us on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays - we'll be waiting!