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Full Time Direct Support Professional Jobs in Virginia

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 ...

Direct Support Professional Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary team? At Merakey, we put heart and soul into everything we do. We are seeking ...

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Full Time Direct Support Professional information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$15

$18

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time direct support professional in Virginia is $15.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $16.39 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Full Time Direct Support Professional job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,365 per year, or $15.1 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
Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.