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Direct Support Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

West Bay RI

Direct Support Professional

Warwick, RI · On-site

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)NEW PAY RATE: $21.50-$22.50/hour+ $1.00/hour Weekend DifferentialFlexible Full-Time & Part-Time Schedules Available 1st Shift * 2nd Shift * Combination ShiftsMake a ...

West Bay RI

Direct Support Professional

Warwick, RI · On-site

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) NEW PAY RATE: $21.50-$22.50/hour + $1.00/hour Weekend Differential Flexible Full-Time & Part-Time Schedules Available 1st Shift • 2nd Shift • Combination ...

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Direct Support information

See Rhode Island salary details

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How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support in Rhode Island is $15.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional?

Direct Support professionals, also known as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), are individuals who assist people with disabilities or special needs in their daily lives. They help clients with tasks such as personal care, medication management, transportation, and participation in community activities. DSPs play a vital role in promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life for the individuals they support. Their work may take place in group homes, private residences, or community settings.

What are some common challenges direct support professionals face when supporting clients, and how can they be addressed?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, managing behavioral issues, and adapting to each client's unique needs. Addressing these challenges involves ongoing training, strong teamwork, and utilizing person-centered approaches to build trust and rapport with clients. Regular communication with supervisors and colleagues also helps in finding effective strategies and sharing best practices for delivering high-quality support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional, you need knowledge of personal care, client safety, and basic health support, often backed by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with care documentation systems and first aid/CPR certification is commonly required. Patience, empathy, and strong communication are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting clients with diverse needs. These abilities are essential for ensuring client well-being, promoting independence, and maintaining a safe, supportive environment.

What is the difference between Direct Support vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect SupportPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires specialized training or certifications in disability supportMay require basic caregiving or health-related certifications
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities in homes, community settings, or facilitiesProvides personal care in private homes, healthcare facilities, or assisted living
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by disability agencies, non-profits, or government programsHired by families, healthcare agencies, or assisted living facilities
Job FocusAssisting with daily living, community integration, and advocacyAssisting with personal hygiene, mobility, and daily routines

While both roles involve providing personal assistance, Direct Support typically encompasses a broader scope of supporting individuals with disabilities in various aspects of life, including advocacy and community engagement. Personal Care Assistants mainly focus on personal hygiene and daily living tasks. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and settings.

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Direct Support jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Direct Support job openings:

Direct Support jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,170 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

The Arc of Bristol County dba proAbility

Cumberland, RI

$20.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job ID # - 773
Position: Direct Support Professional
Department: RI Community Supports
Schedule: Tuesday amp; Thursday 9-2
Pay Rate: $20.50

General Job Description
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional to provide one-on-one support and care to individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities (IDD) in community settings. As a Direct Support Professional, you will assist individuals in achieving personal goals, building independent living skills, enhancing social connections, and participating in community activities. Effective time management and communication skills are essential.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; Associates or Bachelor's Degree in Human Services or related field/one year experience working with people with disabilities and their families preferred
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Possession of a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of valid insurance and car registration
  • Ability to successfully pass criminal background checks
Job Responsibilities
  • Provide one-on-one direct support and care to individuals with IDD in community settings
  • Utilize a person-centered approach to support individuals in developing and achieving their unique personal goals, which may include facilitating participation in community activities, building independent living skills, enhancing social connections, and achieving other goals important to the individual
  • Support individuals in building and maintaining social connections by facilitating opportunities for socialization with peers, family, and community members
  • Maintain regular communication with individuals, their families, and other support staff to ensure the continuity and quality of care provided
  • Accurately and thoroughly document all services provided in accordance with organizational policies and procedures
  • Create and maintain a community network through community mapping to identify and access resources that promote the individual's growth and development
  • Ability to provide compassionate care and support to individuals with IDD, while respecting their individuality and promoting their independence
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively manage time and prioritize tasks to ensure timely completion of responsibilities
  • Complete all program required training
  • Provide personal care, including all ADLs, to ensure individuals' well-being and comfort.
  • Perform any other job-related duties as assigned by Supervisor or Director

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities, we invite you to apply today and join our dedicated team at The Arc of Bristol County!
Employment compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act
The physical demands of this position are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee is regularly required to use hands in order to handle or feel objects, tools and controls; reach with hands or arms, stoop, kneel, talk, and hear. The employee is required to stand, walk, sit, and occasionally be required to lift/transfer up to 50/70 lbs. alone or occasionally up to 200lbs with the assistance of other staff. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

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