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Full Time Direct Support Professional Jobs in Massachusetts

GAAMHA

Direct Support Professional

Leominster, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Join GAAMHA as a CBES Direct Support Professional Location: Leominster, MA - New Community-Based Enrichment Services (CBES) Program Are you ready to be part of something new and impactful? GAAMHA is ...

mayinstitute

Direct Support Professional

Norwood, MA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Children's Residential Program Randolph, MA and Norwood, MA Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents (ages ...

May Institute

Direct Support Professional

Norwood, MA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Children's Residential Program Randolph, MA and Norwood, MA Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents ...

mayinstitute

Direct Support Professional

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Adult's Residential Program Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults (ages 22+) with Autism and developmental disabilities.

May Institute

Direct Support Professional

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) - Adult's Residential Program Support. Empower. Transform. Make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults (ages 22+) with Autism and developmental disabilities.

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Full Time Direct Support Professional information

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How much do full time direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time direct support professional in Massachusetts is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time direct support professional?

Full Time Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are individuals who work directly with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, assisting them with daily living activities, personal care, and community involvement. DSPs help clients achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life by supporting them in areas such as communication, social skills, and personal growth. They often work in group homes, residential facilities, or clients' private residences, providing compassionate care and advocacy on a full-time basis.

What does a full time direct support professional do?

A typical day for a Full Time Direct Support Professional (DSP) involves providing hands-on support to individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, assisting with daily living activities such as meal preparation, medication reminders, and personal care. DSPs often collaborate closely with other team members, including case managers, nurses, and therapists, to ensure coordinated care and support tailored to each client’s needs. Open communication and flexibility are essential since daily routines can change based on client schedules and needs. Building trusting relationships with clients and fostering a supportive environment are central to the role, making teamwork and empathy key to success.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a full time direct support professional?

To thrive as a Full Time Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong interpersonal skills, and experience in caregiving or working with individuals with disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, basic healthcare protocols, and optional certifications such as CPR/First Aid are valuable. Patience, empathy, reliability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that enable positive relationships and support for clients. These skills ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of individuals receiving care, while also facilitating collaboration with families and colleagues.

What is the difference between Full Time Direct Support Professional vs Part Time Direct Support Professional?

AspectFull Time Direct Support ProfessionalPart Time Direct Support Professional
Work HoursTypically 30-40 hours per weekLess than 30 hours per week
CertificationsOften requires similar certifications (e.g., CPR, First Aid)Same certifications usually required
Work EnvironmentConsistent schedule, full-day shiftsFlexible, shorter shifts
Employer UsageCommon in full-service agencies and facilitiesUsed in part-time roles or supplemental positions

Full Time Direct Support Professionals work more hours per week, often with a consistent schedule, providing ongoing support. Part Time Direct Support Professionals work fewer hours, offering flexibility but less overall weekly support. Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in similar environments, but the commitment level differs.

Is being a full time direct support professional a stressful job?

Full-time direct support professionals often work in demanding environments that require patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle challenging situations. The job can be physically and emotionally taxing, especially when supporting individuals with complex needs, but proper training and support can help manage stress levels.

Is being a full time direct support professional worth it?

Full-time direct support professionals provide assistance to individuals with disabilities, often working in community or residential settings. The role offers stable employment, opportunities for skill development, and the chance to make a positive impact, though it may involve physically demanding tasks and variable schedules. Compensation and benefits vary by employer and location, but the job can be rewarding for those committed to supporting others.

Where do full time direct support professionals get paid the most?

Full time direct support professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services. States or areas with a strong presence of healthcare facilities, specialized care centers, or higher minimum wage laws often offer higher pay rates for this role. Certification and experience can also influence salary levels across different locations.

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

The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Massachusetts are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Massachusetts?

For Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Full Time Direct Support Professional job openings:

Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Direct Support Professional job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,554 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - Full Time

Northeast Arc

Danvers, MA • On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

About this Home: The Newbury St, residents love decorating for and celebrating just about every holiday, with Halloween being a favorite! Residents also enjoy trips to the mall, eating out, exploring the library, and participating in Special Olympics. Direct Support Professionals in this home will need to provide some personal care in assistance. Meal preparation is required but the residents love to assist, making mealtime a fun activity!

Schedule: Wednesday 3 pm-11 pm, Thursday 3 pm-11 pm, Friday 3 pm- 11 pm, Saturday 9 am -11 pm (36 hrs)

Pay Rate: Estimated $23.00/hr. - $24.00/hr., depending on experience and certification (FA/CPR and MAP)

Job Summary: To provide quality living supports and be responsive to individuals living in residential programs or independently. Teach, support, and facilitate choices for people in their homes and within their communities.

Major Responsibilities:

  • Provide Direct Care and support the clinical and social needs of the individuals receiving services.
  • Document accurately and thoroughly, including in Inter-Team Communication Logs, Health Records, Daily Data Books, and Fire Drill Logs as outlined in Northeast Arc Policy and Procedures
  • Facilitate meaningful community experiences for each individual that foster skill acquisition, relationship building, and independence.
  • Provide hands-on support at the home, including individualized supports in transferring, bathing and grooming, and following specific dining protocols and treatments.
  • Administer medications according to Northeast Arc Policies and Procedures and MAPs Regulations. Support Drs appointments, ER and hospital visits, and contact on-call nursing appropriately.
  • Maintain a safe work environment by following Universal Precautions, ensuring that emergency exits are clear and accessible at all times and maintaining staffing ratios as outlined in contracts with funding agencies and House Safety Plans.

Qualifications:

  • Valid driver’s license a must and reliable vehicle for transportation
  • Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, stand for periods of time, bend, push wheelchairs, and provide physical intervention.
  • CPR/FA/MAP certification is a must.

Northeast Arc changes lives for people with disabilities, and we want you to join us! We are currently hiring Direct Support Professionals to work within our group homes located throughout the North Shore. Direct support professionals help the individuals we serve live inclusive and independent lives in their homes and community.

Apply