ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Direct Support Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Easterseals UCP

Direct Support Professional

Cary, NC

$15/hr

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP ), you'll play a critical role in carrying out that mission by helping people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) complete everyday living ...

Easterseals UCP

Direct Support Professional

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15/hr

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP ), you'll play a critical role in carrying out that mission by helping people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) complete everyday living ...

Easterseals UCP

Direct Support Professional

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15/hr

As a Direct Support Professional (DSP ), you'll play a critical role in carrying out that mission by helping people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) complete everyday living ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDirect Support JobsDirect Support Jobs in Durham, NC

Direct Support information

See Durham, NC salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support in Durham, NC is $15.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $16.97 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 Durham, NC?

The most popular types of Direct Support jobs in Durham, NC are:

What cities near Durham, NC are hiring for Direct Support jobs?

Cities near Durham, NC with the most Direct Support job openings:

Direct Support jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support job openings in Durham, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,730 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Easterseals UCP

Wake Forest, NC • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

 At Easterseals PORT Health (ESPH), our mission is rooted in empowering individuals and strengthening communities. As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you’ll play a critical role in carrying out that mission by helping people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) complete everyday living tasks and achieve their goals. 

Position details: Part-time; after school hours and weekends 
Location: Wake Forest, NC, with regular local community travel
Compensation: $15.00/hour

Your Role in Our Mission 

  • You will provide care in the home of the individual and the community they live in
  • Assist with everyday tasks such as housekeeping, meal preparation, cooking, and cleaning; personal care such as bathing and dressing; and employment support
  • You may transport the client to appointments and run errands
  • Help plan and organize their schedule
  • Daily documentation and reporting in the electronic health system of record

Why Join Us? 

  • Impact with Purpose: offering families much-needed support and breaks 
  • Professional Growth: Work alongside seasoned leaders who care about your growth and development
  • Flexibility: We offer full and part-time positions as well as fill-in hours, depending on what you need
  • Paid training: CPR / first-aid, Mindset, Medication Administration, Infectious Disease, and Seizure Management

We offer an assortment of benefits for part-time and as-needed positions. 

Compensation & Benefits 

  • Competitive salary: $15.00 hourly 
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan 
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible scheduling to include full-time, part-time, and as-needed
  • On-the-job skill enhancement and growth

What We’re Looking For  

  • Experience: entry-level, on-the-job training is provided
  • Education: A High school diploma or GED is required 
  • Knowledge: basic housekeeping, basic nutrition, and safety protocols
  • Skills: Interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and dependability are a must!
  • Technology: Proficiency with EHR systems or technically savvy to learn 
  • Transportation: DSPs must have reliable transportation and current auto insurance 

Ready to Apply? 

Join a team where work isn’t just something you do — it’s a purpose. Bring your expertise to a mission that matters. Apply now at www.eastersealsPORT.com or send your resume to recruiter@eastersealsPORT.com.  

** Voted Raleigh's Best Nonprofit Organization and Raleigh's Best Mental Health Services two years in a row**

About Easterseals PORT Health  

Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy and compassionate partner, providing exceptional services in disability, mental health, and substance use to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication, and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,600-member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults, and families in 11,000 home, facility, and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia.  

Easterseals PORT Health is an Inclusive Language, Different Voices, Embracing Potential, Authentic Self, and Learning & Growing (IDEAL) organization.   

Applicants of all abilities are encouraged to apply! 

Apply