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Full Time Direct Support Professional Jobs in Frederick, MD

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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 Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time direct support professional in Frederick, MD is $16.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.45 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 Frederick, MD?

The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Frederick, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs in Frederick, MD?

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

What cities near Frederick, MD are hiring for Full Time Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Frederick, MD with the most Full Time Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Time Direct Support Professional job openings in Frederick, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,677 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)/ Residential Counselor

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Community Support Services, Inc. (CSS) is a non-profit organization based in Gaithersburg, MD. CSS is committed to providing inclusive and innovative community-based services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in their pursuit of individually chosen life goals to live, work, learn, interact with others, and recreate in their community.

Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Openings- Residential

Community Support Services, Inc. (CSS) ishiring full time Direct Support Professional, (DSP) positions supporting individuals with autism in their daily lives. We are looking forcaring and compassionate people to support adults and children with autism, in upper Montgomery County. Positions provide support in a residential settings. If you areinterestedand enjoy learning how to support, teach and advocate for individuals with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities, we have opportunities for you!CSS will provide specific on the job training for each support staff on how to include a person with autism in community and recreational activities.CSS offers unique schedules that work well for college students and individuals or parents who need to be home during the day to attend to other family obligations while working a full time job.

Come work with an organization that will provide you with:

  • Paid on the job training
  • Competitive wages
  • Fringe benefits including tuition reimbursement, paid leave, medical, dental and vision benefits and a 403B retirement plan

We provide ongoing training opportunities to build your skills and increase your knowledge to prepare you for advancement on your career path. CSS believes in and supports advancement, we promote from within the organization when needs arise as we grow and expand.

If you meet this description then the individuals we support need you to join their teams!

Additionally, you can pick up hours to provide Overnight Onsite Supervision, (OOS) paid at an addition hourly rate.

Highlighted benefits include:

  • Guaranteed 40 hours (plus overnights)
  • Paid training