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Direct Support Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Our Client is seeking a motivated professional to work as a Direct Support Professional in Chantilly, VA. SUMMARY OF CLIENT'S DESCRIPTION OF THIS OPPORTUNITY * Provide support and care to persons ...

Direct Support Professional

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Our Client is seeking a motivated professional to work as a Direct Support Professional in Chantilly, VA. SUMMARY OF CLIENT'S DESCRIPTION OF THIS OPPORTUNITY * Provide support and care to persons ...

Direct Support Professional

Vienna, VA ยท 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 ยท 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

Henrico, VA ยท On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Direct Support: Provides direct support or assistance in accordance with individual service or program plans; assists with socialization and behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping ...

Be Seen First

Female Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Community Engagement (With a car big enough to fit 3 individuals) Service Areas: Alexandria City, Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Falls Church, Prince William ...

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - $21.53/hour Make a Difference. Build a Career. Change Lives. Join Chimes , a mission-driven nonprofit where compassion meets purpose. As a Direct Support ...

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Direct Support information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 direct support in a job?

Direct support in a job refers to providing hands-on assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs, helping them with daily activities, personal care, and community integration. This role often requires strong communication skills, patience, and sometimes certification in first aid or caregiving. The support worker collaborates closely with clients, families, and other professionals to promote independence and well-being.

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 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 are Direct Support professionals?

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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,581 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Danville

Support Services Of Virginia

Danville, VA โ€ข On-site

$13.50 - $14/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Support Services of Virginia is hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in Danville to provide support services to individuals with developmental disabilities in both residential and community settings. We are seeking individuals who are dependable, positive, adaptable, community-focused, and passionate about helping others live fulfilling lives.

As a Direct Support Professional, you will work directly with individuals to promote independence, community participation, and personal growth. You will help ensure that each person receives support that reflects what is important to them while also addressing their health, safety, and overall well-being.

Support Services of Virginia is committed to investing in our employees through mentorship, training, and professional development opportunities. Our supportive workplace culture, comprehensive benefits package, and meaningful mission make SSVA a rewarding place to build a career in Virginia's human services field.

Schedule & Work Environment

SSVA provides services 24 hours a day and currently has openings for day, evening, overnight, and weekend shifts. Direct Support Professionals are expected to work a minimum of two weekend shifts per month as part of their regular schedule. Every shift provides an opportunity to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of the individuals we support.

Virtual interviews and training are available through Zoom.

Compensation

โ€ข Starting pay: $13.50 per hour
โ€ข Opportunity for an increase to $14.00 per hour upon completion of training and medication certification requirements
โ€ข All certifications must be verified

Team Member Benefits

โ€ข Competitive compensation with opportunities for wage growth after training
โ€ข Medical, dental, and life insurance coverage
โ€ข Paid vacation, holidays, and training time
โ€ข 401(k) retirement plan
โ€ข Professional development and advancement opportunities
โ€ข Employee appreciation and referral programs

Requirements

โ€ข Proof of highest level of education completed
โ€ข Ability to pass criminal background, registry, and tuberculosis screenings
โ€ข Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR/AED Certification, Medicaid Waiver Certification, and Direct Support Professional Core Competencies
โ€ข Strong communication, organizational, and time management skills
โ€ข Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Support Services of Virginia values diversity and inclusion and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.