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Direct Support Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Acas Inc

Direct Support Professional

Centreville, VA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

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 ...

Acas Inc

Direct Support Professional

Manassas, VA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

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 ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Aylett, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Direct Support Professional Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary team? At Merakey, we put heart and soul into everything we do. We are seeking ...

Merakey

Direct Support Professional

Aylett, VA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Direct Support Professional Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary team? At Merakey, we put heart and soul into everything we do. We are seeking ...

Chimes

Direct Support Professional

Fairfax, VA

$21.53/hr

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 ...

HCAOA

Direct Support Professional

Sterling, VA · On-site

$19/hr

We are looking for Direct Support Professionals or caregivers that are interested in learning and growing their skills within the senior and disability care industry. Our Direct Support Professional ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/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 ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.25/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 ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Christiansburg, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/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 ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/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 ...

Sevita

Direct Support Professional

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.25/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 ...

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All JobsDirect Support JobsDirect Support Jobs in Virginia

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:

Direct Support jobs near you
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

HEART OF JOY LLC

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$15 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About the Role:
Heart of Joy LLC is looking for a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional to join our team in Virginia Beach, VA. In this rewarding role, you'll make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing personalized care and support. If you have a heart for helping others and a passion for empowering people to live their best lives, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities:
  • Provide direct care and daily living support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)
  • Assist clients with personal hygiene, grooming, meal preparation, and household tasks
  • Implement individualized support plans (ISPs) and document progress accurately
  • Transport and accompany clients to appointments, community outings, and activities
  • Administer medications and monitor health conditions per care guidelines
  • Foster independence, dignity, and inclusion for all individuals served
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, families, and care team members
Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Previous experience in direct support, caregiving, or human services preferred
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screening
  • CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
  • Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills
  • Genuine compassion and commitment to person-centered care
About Us:
Heart of Joy LLC is a Virginia Beach-based care organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities through compassionate, person-centered support. Our clients and their families trust us to deliver consistent, high-quality care that promotes independence and joy every day. Our team members love working here because we foster a culture of respect, purpose, and genuine heart — where every shift truly matters.