ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CARC

Direct Care Support Worker

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

$16.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Direct Care Support Worker, you will provide a key role in providing support and guidance to individuals who have developmental disabilities living in a residential setting. Your primary ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsDirect Support Worker Jobs

Direct Support Worker information

See salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker in the United States is $16.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.55 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 are hiring for Direct Support Worker jobs?

Cities with the most Direct Support Worker job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Direct Support Worker jobs?

The top employers for Direct Support Worker jobs are:

What states have the most Direct Support Worker jobs?

States with the most job openings for Direct Support Worker jobs include:

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

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

Direct Support Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in the United States 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 $33,642 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional / Caregiver / Community Support Worker

Friendly Connections Inc

Chester, NJ • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Medical

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Bonus opportunities
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Employee discounts

Location: Chester, NJ and surrounding areas
Pay: $20 per hour
Schedule: Approximately 4 hours per week (with opportunities for additional hours)
Work Setting: In Person
Must have a reliable vehicle and be willing to transport clients. Mileage reimbursement available for approved client transportation.
Make a Meaningful Difference Every Day
Friendly Connections is seeking compassionate, dependable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), Caregivers, Community Support Workers, Direct Care Workers, and Disability Support Professionals to help individuals with disabilities and seniors live more independently and participate fully in their communities throughout New Jersey.
This position is approximately 4 hours per week Wednesdays 1:00pm - 5:00pm. This client needs a DSP to take him to cooking class.  They need help setting up a cleaning schedule, help organize their apartment and take them out into the community. 
Why You'll Love Working With Friendly Connections
  • Make a meaningful impact in someone's life every day
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Supportive and responsive management team
  • Ongoing professional development opportunities
  • Referral bonus opportunities
  • Opportunity for additional hours and client assignments
  • Work one-on-one with individuals in your community
  • Rewarding work that promotes independence and community inclusion
What You'll Do
As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), Caregiver, Companion Caregiver, Personal Care Assistant, or Community Support Worker, you will:
  • Support individuals in achieving greater independence and community involvement
  • Accompany clients to appointments, recreational activities, shopping trips, fitness classes, and community events
  • Assist with life skills development, communication, technology use, and social engagement
  • Provide job coaching and employment support when needed
  • Transport individuals safely using your personal vehicle
  • Maintain accurate documentation and confidentiality standards
  • Help individuals build confidence, independence, and meaningful community connections
Job Requirements
  • Must love working with and helping people
  • Experience supporting individuals with disabilities, seniors, dementia patients, or people with special needs preferred
  • Experience as a Caregiver, Home Health Aide (HHA), Personal Care Assistant (PCA), Direct Care Worker, Behavioral Health Support Worker, Companion Caregiver, or Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a plus
  • Must be 21 years of age or older
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Valid driver's license
  • Current vehicle insurance
  • Reliable personal vehicle
  • Driving record with 4 points or fewer
  • First Aid and CPR certification
  • Ability to comply with all state regulations and agency requirements
  • Ability to cooperate with state inspectors and New Jersey Department staff during inspections or investigations
  • Other Job duties as assigned
Job Specifications
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and use common sense
  • Ability to remain calm during crisis situations
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Ability to interact with a wide variety of individuals and situations
  • Ability to work with people who have varying levels of support needs
  • Ability to complete required initial and ongoing training
  • Commitment to providing quality Human Services and community-based support
Industry
  • Human Services, Disability Services, Home Care, Community Support Services, Senior Care, Behavioral Health, Nonprofit Services
This form is COPYRIGHT 2026 by Friendly Connections, Inc. Not to be copied, reproduced or otherwise modified. 
Long Valley, Washington Township, Mendham Township, Peapack, Gladstone, Randolph, Morristown, Hackettstown
Developmental Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities, Independent Living Support, DSP jobs in New Jersey, Direct Support Professional jobs NJ, Disability support jobs NJ, Community support staff NJ, Supported employment specialist NJ, Autism support jobs NJ