1

Direct Support Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional

Halethorpe, MD

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Direct Support Professional is a member of our Community Living Support Team and the selected team member will specifically be responsible for the following: * Assisting Individuals with life ...

Direct Support Professional

Baltimore, MD

$15 - $18.25/hr

At The Arc Baltimore, our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) play a vital role in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live enriched, vibrant, and self ...

Direct Support Professional

Pikesville, MD · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Our Client is seeking a Direct Support Professional to provide support to adults with intellectual developmental disabilities Throughout the Baltimore County Area . CLIENT'S AVAILABLE HOURS * ALL ...

Direct Support Professional

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

None Our Client is seeking a motivated professional to work as a Direct Support Professional in the city of Alexandria. SUMMARY OF CLIENT'S DESCRIPTION OF THIS OPPORTUNITY * Help with daily living ...

Direct Support Professional

Springfield, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Some College Our client has immediate starts for motivated professionals to work as a direct support professional in the Springfield, VA. SUMMARY OF CLIENT'S DESCRIPTION OF THIS OPPORTUNITY * Provide ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Direct Support information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support in Silver Spring, MD is $16.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Direct Support jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Direct Support jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Direct Support jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Direct Support job openings:
Infographic showing various Direct Support job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,015 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Sunrise Cedars

Halethorpe, MD

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Sunrise Cedars. Inc., is seeking DEDICATED, high-energy, highly professional candidates who are passionate about helping individuals with intellectual and physically disabilities integrate into the community. The ideal candidate will help these individuals develop key life skills and become one with the community. This position is for part time with varying hours.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Direct Support Professional is a member of our Community Living Support Team and the selected team member will specifically be responsible for the following:

  • Assisting Individuals with life skills in their homes.
  • Provide day to day living support and guidance.
  • Providing support with activities in the community and in the home environment.
  • Our Direct Supports Associate must have a valid driver’s license and be willing to take individuals to appointments and outings.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent from an accredited school
  • 21 years or older
  • 1-year (preferred) experience working with intellectual and or physically disabled individuals in a residential setting, and/or strong evidence of aptitudes and abilities that would allow one to meet the responsibilities and duties as described above.
  • A valid Maryland Driver's License and a working car is preferred.
  • Successfully pass background checks, drug test and reference checks will be performed prior to hire.
  • CPR/ First Aid
  • Medication Technician Certified or able to obtain within first 90 days of employment.
  • DDA Trainings
  • Must be computer literate

Physical Demands:

  • Must possess the visual acuity to develop written correspondence and determine accuracy and thoroughness of the work assigned.
  • Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of talking, hearing, and performing repetitive motions, such as using a computer.
  • Must be able to speak audibly and write legibly.
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs or more
  • Must be able to use moderate physical effort with some standing, walking, occasional stooping, and bending as trained.

We are an EEO/AA Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic.