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Direct Support Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Professional

Garfield, NJ ยท On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Kindly Direct Care is looking for Direct Support Professionals who are Caring, Compassionate and Dependable team members to assist individuals with Developmental Disabilities. DSPs must be willing to ...

The Direct Support Professional safely performs varied, but highly important duties related to the overall well-being of individuals who deal with intellectual and developmental challenges. Our ...

The Direct Support Professional safely performs varied, but highly important duties related to the overall well-being of individuals who deal with intellectual and developmental challenges. Our ...

Caregiver

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$15.30/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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Direct Support information

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$9

$16

$20

How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support in the United States is $16.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.55 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.

More about Direct Support jobs

What cities are hiring for Direct Support jobs?

Cities with the most Direct Support job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support jobs?

The most popular types of Direct Support jobs are:

What states have the most Direct Support jobs?

States with the most job openings for Direct Support jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support jobs?

For Direct Support jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Direct Support job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,871 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Kindly Direct Care

Little Silver, NJ โ€ข On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide one-on-one support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and communities.

  • Assist individuals in developing life skills, participating in community activities, and pursuing personal goals.

  • Complete accurate documentation of services, progress, and adherence to safety and agency policies.


Job description

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Full-Time, Part-Time & Per Diem Opportunities Available
Flexible Scheduling | Competitive Pay | Paid Training | Career Growth Opportunities

About Kindly

At Kindly, we believe every individual deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful, independent, and fulfilling life.

We provide personalized support services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Our mission is to help individuals build independence, strengthen community connections, achieve personal goals, and live life on their own terms.

We are seeking compassionate, dependable, and motivated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our growing team.

Whether you are an experienced caregiver or someone looking to begin a rewarding career helping others, we provide the training, support, and guidance needed to succeed.

Position Summary

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides one-on-one support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and communities.

DSPs play a vital role in helping individuals develop life skills, participate in meaningful activities, build relationships, increase independence, and achieve goals identified in their support plans.

This is far more than a caregiving role. DSPs serve as mentors, coaches, advocates, and trusted supports who help individuals live fuller, more connected lives.

Key Responsibilities

Community Integration & Independence

  • Support individuals in participating in community activities, recreation, volunteer opportunities, and social events

  • Assist individuals in developing friendships and building natural supports

  • Encourage independence and self-advocacy

  • Help individuals pursue personal interests, hobbies, employment, educational, and life goals

  • Support participation in religious, cultural, and community activities when desired by the individual

Daily Living Skills

  • Assist with meal preparation and healthy living habits

  • Support household organization and cleanliness

  • Assist with budgeting, shopping, and money management as appropriate

  • Teach and reinforce skills that promote independence

  • Provide transportation to approved activities and appointments when required

Personal Care & Health Support

  • Assist with personal care tasks when authorized and needed

  • Observe and report changes in health, behavior, or wellbeing

  • Follow all individualized support plans and safety protocols

  • Administer or assist with medications when appropriately trained and authorized

  • Maintain a safe and supportive environment

Documentation & Compliance

  • Complete accurate and timely service documentation

  • Document progress toward individual goals

  • Utilize electronic systems for scheduling, documentation, and communication

  • Comply with all agency policies, HIPAA requirements, and state regulations

  • Attend required trainings and maintain certifications

Team Collaboration

  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, families, and care team members

  • Participate in meetings and ongoing training opportunities

  • Demonstrate professionalism and reliability in all interactions

  • Represent Kindly with compassion, respect, and integrity

Qualifications

Required

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

  • Ability to pass all required background checks and screenings

  • Ability to complete required training and certification requirements

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

  • Compassionate, patient, and dependable

  • Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment

Preferred

  • Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

  • Experience in healthcare, caregiving, education, behavioral health, or human services

  • CPR, First Aid, or Medication Administration certifications

  • Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to travel throughout assigned service areas

  • Ability to lift, transfer, or assist individuals when required by the support plan

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform physical activities associated with community-based support services

  • Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations

What Makes Kindly Different?

At Kindly, we recognize that exceptional care starts with exceptional caregivers.

Our DSPs receive ongoing support, accessible leadership, quality training, and opportunities for professional growth. We strive to create an environment where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals they serve.

When you join Kindly, you become part of a team that believes support should be personal, compassionate, and centered on helping people thrive.

Join Our Team

If you are passionate about helping others, enjoy building meaningful relationships, and want a career where your work truly matters, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build independence, create opportunity, and empower individuals to thrive.