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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

BETHANNA

FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

The Family Support Workers is responsible for assessing the social service needs of participants, providing direct and indirect services and referrals, and engaging participants in various activities ...

BETHANNA

FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

The Family Support Workers is responsible for assessing the social service needs of participants, providing direct and indirect services and referrals, and engaging participants in various activities ...

Elwyn

Recovery Support Worker

Bywood, PA

Responsibilities Elwyn Adult Behavioral Health Services seeks a Recovery Support Worker (RSW) to ... One year full-time experience in providing direct care service to mentally ill consumers preferred.

Elwyn

Recovery Support Worker

Bywood, PA · On-site

$18/hr

Responsibilities Elwyn Adult Behavioral Health Services seeks a Recovery Support Worker (RSW) to ... One year full-time experience in providing direct care service to mentally ill consumers preferred.

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Coraopolis, PA

$18/hr

Working closely with families, healthcare providers, and other team members, the DSP helps create ... Provide direct personal care and support to individuals, including assistance with hygiene, meal ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Coraopolis, PA · On-site

$18/hr

Working closely with families, healthcare providers, and other team members, the DSP helps create ... Provide direct personal care and support to individuals, including assistance with hygiene, meal ...

Bethanna

Be Seen First

CUA Family Support Worker

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

The Family Support Workers is responsible for assessing the social service needs of participants, providing direct and indirect services and referrals, and engaging participants in various activities ...

Elwyn

Recovery Support Worker

Bywood, PA · On-site

$18/hr

Elwyn Adult Behavioral Health Services seeks a Recovery Support Worker (RSW) to build relationships ... One year full-time experience in providing direct care service to mentally ill consumers preferred.

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All JobsDirect Support Worker JobsDirect Support Worker Jobs in Pennsylvania

Direct Support Worker information

See Pennsylvania salary details

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$16

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How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker in Pennsylvania is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.60 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 Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,722 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Direct Support Worker, Part Time

Morgantown, PA • On-site

Abraxas Youth & Family Services
Non-Profits • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Abraxas Youth & Family Servicesexternal

$30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

❤️ Change Lives While Growing Your Own Career

"Help People Heal"

Direct Support Worker, Detention

???? Abraxas Academy

1000 Academy Drive., Morgantown, PA 19543

???? Part-Time

????Salary: $30.00/hourly

???? DailyPay Available


Looking for More Than Just a Job?

At Abraxas Youth and Family Services we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful, fulfilling, and independent life.

We’re seeking compassionate, dedicated professionals who are looking for more than a paycheck. We’re looking for individuals who want to make a difference, build rewarding careers, and become part of a team committed to helping others succeed.

Whether you’re beginning your career, changing professions, or bringing years of experience, we provide the training, support, and opportunities needed to help you thrive.

No experience required for many positions. Paid training is provided.

About Abraxas Youth and Family Services

For more than 53 years, Abraxas Youth and Family Services has been dedicated to improving lives through high-quality services and support.

Our employees play a vital role in helping individuals achieve greater independence, confidence, and success while promoting dignity, respect, inclusion, and personal choice.

Every day, our team members make a meaningful impact by supporting people in reaching their goals and living their best lives.

Why Join Our Team?

???? Competitive Pay & Benefits

• Competitive Compensation

• Daily Pay – Access Your Earned Wages Before Payday

• Employee Assistance Program

• Wellness Programs

• Company-Paid Training

???? Career Growth & Development

• Paid Training Programs

• Professional Development Opportunities

• Certification Opportunities

• Leadership Development Programs

• Career Advancement Opportunities

• Opportunities Across Multiple Service Lines

Meaningful Work That Matters

• Make a Difference Every Day

• Support Individuals and Families

• Build Meaningful Relationships

• Strengthen Communities

• Join a Mission-Driven Organization

What You’ll Do

As a Part-Time Direct Support Worker in our Detention Unit, you will provide supervision, guidance, mentoring and direction to at-risk youth.

Your responsibilities may include:

  • Interacts with and supervises clients during daily activities in a manner that ensures their safety and security.
  • Maintains regular communication with supervisors and co-workers.
  • Provides effective facility security including conducting headcounts, room checks and observing client movement.
  • Observes client behavior and intervene appropriately.
  • Processes intakes and screens clients according to program policy.
  • Observes activities and responds accordingly including emergency situations including evacuation, CPR, or first aid. 
  • Provides effective facility security including conducting headcounts, room checks and observing client movement.
  • Observes client behavior and intervene appropriately.
  • Facilitates and documents various groups or meetings; monitors the documentation process to ensure all services are documented as necessary each shift.

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