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Direct Support Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What You'll Do as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) As a DSP, you will support individuals in daily life while helping them achieve personal goals and maintain independence in a safe, supportive ...

Direct Support Professional

Vienna, VA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

None Our Client is seeking a motivated professional to work as a Direct Support Professional in Vienna and Fairfax, VA. SUMMARY OF CLIENT'S DESCRIPTION OF THIS OPPORTUNITY * Provide support and care ...

Direct Support Professional

Vienna, VA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

None Our Client is seeking a motivated professional to work as a Direct Support Professional in Vienna and Fairfax, VA. SUMMARY OF CLIENT'S DESCRIPTION OF THIS OPPORTUNITY * Provide support and care ...

Join Acas Inc as a Direct Support Professional in Centreville, VA, where you will make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities. This role offers a rewarding opportunity to ...

Direct Support Professional

Vienna, VA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

None Our Client is seeking a motivated professional to work as a Direct Support Professional in Vienna and Fairfax, VA. SUMMARY OF CLIENT'S DESCRIPTION OF THIS OPPORTUNITY * Provide support and care ...

Direct Support Professional

Vienna, VA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

None Our Client is seeking a motivated professional to work as a Direct Support Professional in Vienna and Fairfax, VA. SUMMARY OF CLIENT'S DESCRIPTION OF THIS OPPORTUNITY * Provide support and care ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support in Virginia is $16.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.40 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 are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Direct Support jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Direct Support jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Direct Support job openings:

Infographic showing various Direct Support job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,581 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Beacon Specialized Living

Chesterfield, VA • On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Beacon Specialized Living rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

169th of 242 rated social care providers


Job description

Join Beacon Specialized Living - Where Every Shift Makes a Difference
Are you looking for a meaningful career where your work truly matters? At Beacon Specialized Living, we support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, and autism, helping them live independent and fulfilling lives in their communities.
Bring your compassion and reliability & we'll provide the training and support to help you succeed.
Flexible schedules available including full-time, part-time, and on-call opportunities.
Why Choose Beacon?
Beacon Specialized Living is nationally recognized through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) for our commitment to professional direct support services and workforce development.
Through our LEAP Program (Leadership, Excellence, Advancement, and Promotion), employees have the opportunity to earn nationally recognized NADSP certification while advancing their careers and developing leadership skills.
At Beacon, this isn't just a job - it's a career with purpose and opportunity.
What You'll Do as a Direct Support Professional (DSP)
As a DSP, you will support individuals in daily life while helping them achieve personal goals and maintain independence in a safe, supportive environment.
Daily Responsibilities
  • Assist with daily living skills and personal care
  • Support community engagement and recreational activities
  • Prepare meals and maintain a clean, organized home environment
  • Transport individuals to appointments and community activities
  • Administer medications as directed (training provided)
  • Maintain accurate documentation and advocate for individuals served
  • Promote dignity, respect, and person-centered support.

What We Offer
  • Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (eligible first of the month after 60 days)
  • Paid Time Off: 88 Hours per year, eligible after 90 days of employment.
  • Free 24/7 telehealth for employees and families through First Stop Health.
  • 401(k) with employer match and company-paid life insurance
  • Paid training including CPR, de-escalation, and medication administration
  • Employee discounts through Perkspot and cell phone savings programs
  • Calm mental wellness app access
  • Ongoing professional development and advancement through the LEAP Program

Qualifications
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • GED or High School Diploma
  • Compassionate, dependable, and team- oriented
  • Strong communication skills and willingness to learn

Why Work at Beacon
At Beacon, we don't just offer jobs - we build careers that make a difference. You'll join a supportive, mission-driven organization that values your growth, recognizes your impact, and invests in your success.
Beacon Specialized Living Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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