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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Macon, GA (NOW HIRING)

DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF Job Duties: Direct Support Staff work under the direct supervision of the ... At least six months' experience working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities. * Capable ...

DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF Job Duties: Direct Support Staff work under the direct supervision of the ... At least six months' experience working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities. * Capable ...

Direct Support Professional

Jackson, GA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

DSP) DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL are people who work directly with ... Ability to maintain professional and respectful interaction with individuals and co-workers.

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Direct Support Worker information

See Macon, GA salary details

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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 Macon, GA is $15.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $16.83 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.

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Worker jobs in Macon, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Worker jobs in Macon, GA are:

What cities near Macon, GA are hiring for Direct Support Worker jobs?

Cities near Macon, GA with the most Direct Support Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in Macon, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,264 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Direct Support Staff

The Arc Macon, Inc.

Macon, GA • Remote

$16.95/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF

JOB DESCRIPTION

 

Job Duties: Direct Support Staff work under the direct supervision of the Residential Home Supervisor and are responsible for the direct care of the individuals with disabilities residing in their assigned homes. Provides person-centered support to individuals with disabilities in their homes and community.

 

Essential Functions as Direct Support Staff:

 

  1. Supports individuals in attaining personal goals and desires.
  2. Supports individuals to interact with other people outside of the service network in a variety of ways.
  3. Assumes full responsibility when at work for food preparation, community activities, and assisting individuals with other needs.
  4. Supports individuals in planning nutritious meals and supporting those with special diets. 
  5. Cooperates with family members regarding reasonable requests related to individual needs.
  6. Supervises the self-administration of prescribed medication and maintains a record of medication according to established policies. Maintains charts for every individual, consistent with physician’s orders, and reports any medical emergencies according to the Medical Emergency Plan.
  7. Assumes responsibility for cash disbursements given by the Residential Home Supervisor and keeps receipts showing the actual amount spent.
  8. Supports individuals with learning and maintaining personal and household skills.
  9. Provides physical support to individuals; including, but not limited to, lifting and moving adaptive equipment.
  10. Receives visitors to the facility; maintains family-oriented nature of the facility by being hospitable to family members and other natural supports by making arrangements as needed for family and home visits.
  11. Supports and encourages individuals through the use of positive reinforcement and non-intrusive consequences.
  12. Abstains from mental, physical, or verbal abuse, humiliation, withholding personal funds, and the use of physical restraint or isolation. 
  13. Reports and records significant behavior incidents to the Residential Home Supervisor and Case Manager.
  14. Observe confidentiality guidelines. Refrains from discussing individuals with any person other than those indicated in the individuals’ personal files.
  15. Acts as a role model supporting and counseling in routine and spontaneous activities.
  16. Works at all times to enhance the lives of the individuals by treating individuals with consideration and respect, and full recognition of dignity, individuality, and need for privacy. 
  17. Maintains a Positive Teamwork Environment.
  1. Accepts and gives constructive criticism, as appropriate.
  2. Avoids gossiping and spreading rumors or unfound statements.
  3. Assist others as appropriate.
  4. Accepts responsibility in a positive, constructive manner.
  5. Willingly takes on additional tasks.
  6. Volunteers for special assignments.
  7. Readily “fills in” when other staff are absent.
  8. Completes routine duties without reminders.
  9. Promotes the agency’s mission and purpose in professional and private life.
  10. Maintains a clean, safe work environment.
  11. Attend staff meetings and training sessions requested by supervisor or management.
  12. Completes any duties as assigned by supervisor.


18. Assumes responsibility for care of the home, grounds, equipment, and furnishings.

  1. Reports to the Residential Supervisor about any home maintenance problems when they occur.
  2. Complies with policies of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Human Resources, and The Arc Macon as they relate to oversight and management of the facilities and this position. 
  3. Compliance with requirements to maintain accreditation.

 

Other Requirements:

 

  1. Work without direct supervision.
  2. Participate in personal work evaluations.
  3. Maintains a good to high attendance record unless on approved leave.
  4. Reports on work on time and observation policies regarding hours worked and punctuality.
  5. Works overtime, as needed, according to personnel policies.
  6. Maintains a helpful relationship with other staff and the Board of Directors.
  7. Represents The Arc Macon in a positive way to the public.
  8. Maintains the flexibility to change routines, if needed.
  9. Possesses the mental and physical ability and stamina to perform the job well. 
  10. Follows all the other requirements of current personnel policies. 
  11. Performs other reasonable related duties as assigned by the supervisor. 
  12. All Training required by DBHDD will be met by the standards. (See attached personnel file checklist.)

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Direct Support Professional Certificate is preferred, but not required.
  • At least six months’ experience working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities. 
  • Capable of lifting 50 pounds without assistance.
  • Maintains a current Driver’s License.
  • Must have a positive attitude, flexibility, and ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.