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Entry Level Direct Support Professional Jobs in Washington, DC

Chimes

Direct Support Professional

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Chimes

Direct Support Professional

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Delta-T Group Inc.

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 ...

Delta-T Group Inc

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 ...

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 ...

Delta-T Group Inc.

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 ...

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 ...

Delta-T Group Inc.

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 ...

Primus Health

Direct Support Professional

Columbia, MD · On-site

Salary: $21 Direct Support Professional (DSP) Pay:$19.00 per hour Schedule:MondayFriday, 9:00 AM5:00 PM Location:In person We are seeking a dependable and experiencedDirect Support Professional (DSP ...

Delta-T Group Inc.

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 ...

Delta-T Group Inc.

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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsEntry Level Direct Support Professional JobsEntry Level Direct Support Professional Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Direct Support Professional information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do entry level direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level direct support professional in Washington, DC is $18.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Direct Support Professional vs Direct Support Professional?

AspectEntry Level Direct Support ProfessionalDirect Support Professional
CertificationsCPR/First Aid often required; training providedSame certifications typically required or preferred
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsSimilar settings, including homes, group homes, and community programs
Experience LevelEntry-level, minimal prior experience neededVaries; can include experienced roles, but often similar entry points
Job ResponsibilitiesSupporting daily activities, personal care, and community integrationSimilar responsibilities, with potential for increased complexity with experience

Both roles involve supporting individuals with disabilities in various settings, requiring similar certifications and responsibilities. The main difference is that the Entry Level Direct Support Professional is designed for those new to the field, focusing on foundational skills, while the Direct Support Professional can include more experienced workers or those with additional responsibilities.

What types of support and training can new entry level direct support professionals expect when starting this role?

New Entry Level Direct Support Professionals typically receive comprehensive onboarding that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. This support covers essential topics such as safety protocols, communication strategies, and understanding the needs of individuals with disabilities. Many organizations also offer mentorship programs, ongoing supervision, and regular team meetings to provide guidance and ensure continuous professional development. This collaborative environment helps new hires feel confident and supported as they adapt to the role’s responsibilities.

What is an entry level direct support professional?

Entry Level Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are individuals who assist people with intellectual or developmental disabilities in their daily lives. They help clients with tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and participating in community activities. The role focuses on promoting independence, safety, and quality of life for clients, often in residential or day program settings. Entry level DSPs typically receive on-the-job training and work under the supervision of more experienced staff or program coordinators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level direct support professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and a genuine interest in supporting individuals with disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, basic first aid/CPR certification, and training in crisis intervention are often required. Patience, strong communication, and compassion are crucial soft skills for building trust and providing effective support. These abilities ensure the safety, well-being, and empowerment of clients, while promoting a positive and supportive environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Washington, DC are:
Entry Level Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Direct Support Professional job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,362 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Chimes

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$21.53/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

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 Professional, you’ll empower individuals with intellectual and behavioral challenges to live with dignity, independence, and confidence—while growing in a supportive, team-focused environment.

Why Chimes

  • Meaningful, purpose-driven work
  • Paid training and ongoing professional development
  • Culture rooted in dignity, respect, and compassion

What You’ll Do

  • Provide hands-on support with kindness and respect
  • Assist with personal care including: dressing, toileting, hygiene, feeding, bathing and other daily living skills
  • Follow individualized care plans and document progress
  • Administer medications in accordance with policy
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment
  • Use approved behavior support techniques
  • Encourage community engagement and participation
  • Some DSP roles will require travel and support from Residential to Day programs

What You Bring

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Experience in disability services preferred (not required—we train!)
  • Ability to lift, push, or pull 50+ lbs.
  • Valid U.S. driver’s license - Meet one of the following driving record requirements? At least 3 years of unsuspended driving history with no more than 3 points, or At least 2 years of unsuspended driving history with a clean driving record

 

Why You’ll Love Working Here

  • Medical plans starting at $6.90/month (Day 1 coverage)
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off
  • 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
  • Paid training and tuition assistance
  • Tickets at Work
  • Employee referral bonuses and recognition programs
  • Clear pathways for growth and advancement

 Join a team where your work truly matters—every single day.
Apply today: https://chimes.org/Careers

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