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Live In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Buffalo, NY

olvhs

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Lackawanna, NY · On-site

$19.50/hr

Support the individuals to live in a home of their choice that is safe, clean and comfortable and ... Direct Support Professionals (DSP). The 8 IRAs are made of 2 different departments: Northtowns ...

People, Inc.

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (Eden)

Eden, NY · On-site

$20/hr

Are you looking for a rewarding career where every day you can help someone live their best life ... As a DSP, you'll support people in reaching their personal goals, making choices, and living ...

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All JobsLive In Direct Support Professional JobsLive In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Buffalo, NY

Live In Direct Support Professional information

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How much do live in direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in direct support professional in Buffalo, NY is $15.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $17.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do live in direct support professionals get paid the most?

Live-in direct support professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services, such as certain metropolitan areas or states with robust funding for disability services. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific employer or agency.

What are some common challenges faced by live in direct support professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Live In Direct Support Professionals often face challenges such as maintaining a healthy work-life balance, managing emotional stress, and adapting to the unique needs of each individual they support. Since the role involves residing in the client's home, clear boundaries and communication with both the individual and their family are essential. Utilizing self-care strategies, seeking support from supervisors or peer networks, and participating in ongoing training can help address these challenges and ensure long-term success in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a live in direct support professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Live In Direct Support Professional, you need a solid understanding of personal care, daily living assistance, and behavior management, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant experience or certifications like CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with electronic documentation systems and assistive care technologies is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal communication, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for building trust and supporting clients’ independence. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, well-being, and quality of life of individuals with developmental or physical disabilities in a residential setting.

Is being a live in direct support professional worth it?

A live-in direct support professional provides around-the-clock assistance to individuals with disabilities, offering stability and a close working relationship. The role often involves irregular hours and requires patience, but it can be rewarding for those interested in caregiving and support work, with opportunities for skill development and certifications such as CPR and first aid.

What is the difference between Live In Direct Support Professional vs Residential Support Worker?

AspectLive In Direct Support ProfessionalResidential Support Worker
CredentialsCPR/First Aid, background check, sometimes certification in disability supportCPR/First Aid, background check, relevant certifications often required
Work EnvironmentProvides 24/7 support in a live-in setting, often in clients' homes or group homesWorks in residential facilities or community homes, may involve shift work
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by disability agencies, nonprofits, or government programsEmployed by residential care facilities, community agencies, or nonprofits

Both roles involve supporting individuals with disabilities, but Live In Direct Support Professionals provide continuous, live-in assistance, while Residential Support Workers typically work scheduled shifts in residential settings. The choice depends on the level of involvement and work schedule preferred.

What is a live in direct support professional?

Live In Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who reside in the homes of individuals with disabilities or special needs to provide daily support and assistance. They help with activities of daily living, such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation. In addition to ensuring safety and comfort, live-in DSPs may also assist with social, educational, or vocational activities, helping clients achieve greater independence and quality of life. Their ongoing presence allows for continuous care and support tailored to each individual's needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Buffalo, NY?

The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Buffalo, NY?

For Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Buffalo, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Buffalo, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Live In Direct Support Professional job openings:

Live In Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Live In Direct Support Professional job openings in Buffalo, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 59% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,810 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional (DSP)

OLV Human Services

Buffalo, NY • On-site

$19.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team as a Direct Support Professional (DSP)!
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? OLV Human Services is seeking compassionate, dedicated Direct Support Professionals to join our team and help empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live more independent, fulfilling lives.
What You'll Do
Our Direct Support Professionals (DSP) assist our adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be independent in their daily lives. Our DSPs are responsible for providing support, positive direction and assistance in accordance with program policies and procedures and personal outcome measures. Our DSPs support our individuals with all areas of hygiene/support including bathing, dressing, incontinent care, feeding tubes, etc., along with supporting the individual's participation and inclusion in the community including ongoing engagement with their family. A DSP is responsible for providing support, positive direction and assistance in accordance with the NADSP Code of Ethics and the OPWDD DSP Core Competencies, as well as with program policies and procedures and personal outcome measures.
  • Support each individual's health and wellness as outlined in their Person Centered Plan (PCP), demonstrating knowledge and understanding of their medical/dental, physical, nutritional, psychological, behavioral, social, emotional and spiritual needs.
  • Support individuals with all areas of personal hygiene/care, as needed (ie. bathing, dressing, incontinent care, feeding tubes, etc....) and with their activities of daily living.
  • Maintain accurate and meaningful documentation records for each individual (including but not limited to - meal intake, medical monitoring, medication administration, program data, t-logs, behavior notes, etc.) utilizing the electronic medical record (Therap).
  • Demonstrate effective methods to promote positive a behavior, which recognize the individual's strengths and teaches new skills, while supporting their unique capacities and enhancing their self-confidence and self-advocacy.
  • Obtain and maintain all required certifications for the DSP role, including site specific nurse delegated duties, in order to perform job effectively.
  • Support the individuals to live in a home of their choice that is safe, clean and comfortable and in meeting their educational and/or employment goals.
  • Support the individual's participation and inclusion in the community, including ongoing engagement with their family.

Pay Rate
  • Full Time Employees: $19.50/hour
    • Additional $1/hour for Medical Intensive Sites (Southtowns locations)
  • Part Time, Scheduled Relief & Per Diem Employees: $19.10/hour
    • Additional $1/hour for Medical Intensive Sites (Southtowns locations)

Why You'll Love Working at OLV Human Services
  • Longevity bonuses - Earn up to $1,200 in longevity bonuses within your first two years of employment!
  • Paid Training Program - Get paid while you learn
  • Casual dress code - Be comfortable while making a difference
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Plans - Free and low cost Dental Insurance options!
  • Paid Holidays with Additional Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Tuition Reimbursement up to $7,200
  • Supplemental insurance programs for additional life insurance, short-term disability, accident & cancer insurance
  • Wellness Incentives - Save up to $1,200 yearly with health screenings and earn up to $180 in gym reimbursements.
  • Employee referral bonuses - Refer your friends and family for money!
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
  • Qualifying Non-For-Profit for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program (click here to learn more: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation)
  • && so much more!

Where You'll Work
OLV Human Services operates a total of 8 IRAs (Individualized Residential Alternative) across Western New York that are staffed with Direct Support Professionals (DSP). The 8 IRAs are made of 2 different departments: Northtowns & Southtowns.
  • Northtowns Department: Amherst (x2 homes), Buffalo, Tonawanda, Cheektowaga
  • Southtowns Department: Lackawanna (x3 homes- includes Medical Intensive Sites)

Availiable Schedules
We offer Full-Time, Part-Time, and Per Diem opportunities on day, evening, and overnight shifts - find a schedule that fits your life!
Additional Qualifications & Requirements:
  • Valid NYS Drivers License required
  • Frequent and/or repetitive sitting, standing, walking, stair climbing, lifting at least 50 pounds, pulling and pushing (ie. wheelchairs and adaptive equipment), carrying, grasping, reaching forward and/or above shoulder level, stretching, squatting, keeling, visual acuity, color determination, head turning, speaking clearly, listening to spoken communication, keyboard typing, and driving.

Apply today and start building a career that makes an impact every single day!

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