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Live In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Columbia, SC

Community options

Direct Support Professional

Chapin, SC · On-site

$15.48/hr

Community Options, Inc. is a national non-profit agency providing services to individuals with disabilities in 12 states. We are Now Hiring Full-Time, Part-Time, PRN Direct Support Professionals (DSP ...

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Live In Direct Support Professional information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$9

$15

$19

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in direct support professional in Columbia, SC is $15.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A Live In Direct Support Professional typically earns hourly wages that may not reach $2000 weekly solely from this role. To achieve higher income, some professionals supplement their earnings through additional shifts, specialized certifications, or by working in multiple roles such as remote caregiving, consulting, or training others in caregiving skills. Building experience and acquiring relevant certifications can also increase earning potential in this field.

What is the 3 month rule for jobs?

The 3 month rule in the context of a Live In Direct Support Professional position often refers to a probationary period of three months during which an employee's performance and fit for the role are evaluated. During this time, employees may receive additional training and supervision, and employment status can be reassessed based on performance and adherence to job requirements.

Where do direct support professionals get paid the most?

Direct support professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services, such as urban areas or states with higher minimum wages. Salaries can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific employer or facility type.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Live In Direct Support Professionals typically do not earn $4,000 weekly; however, high-paying roles without a degree include specialized trades like commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or certain sales positions, which may offer such income with experience and certifications. These jobs often require skills, licensing, or extensive experience rather than formal degrees.

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.

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 are Live In Direct Support Professionals?

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 Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Columbia, SC are:
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What job categories do people searching Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC 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 Columbia, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,335 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Part-time Direct Support Professional (Day Shift)

The Burton Center For Disabilities & Special Needs

West Columbia, SC

$14 - $17/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Burton Center is looking for a part-time (16 - 24 hours per week) Direct Support Professional (DSP) to add to our dynamic team! DSP fulfill the Burton Center mission to develop and discover unlimited potential in adults with disabilities and special needs. Through coaching, training, community advocacy, verbal prompts, and hands-on support as needed, Direct Support Professionals promote individuals to have the best quality of life. If you are a creative, energetic, and caring person, this position is for you!

About Burton Center

Burton Center is a non-profit disability and special needs board. Our organization was created in 1971 to provide essential services to individuals with disabilities and special needs and to offer much needed assistance to their families. Over the last five decades, we have been able to expand our range ofservices. With locations in Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Lexington, McCormick, Ware Shoals, and Saluda counties, Burton Center's staff of 325, assists over 500 people. Our services are provided free of charge to those who meet specific eligibility criteria by the South Carolina Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. We offer Day Programs, Residential Services, and Employment Placement Programs.

About the Position

This is a day shift, part-time position. The hours are between 7:45am - 7:45pm every other Saturday and Sunday, totaling 16 - 24 hours per week. This position is a part of Burton Center's Community Training Home Program (CTH).

As a Direct Support Professional in a Community Training Home (CTH), your role will be pivotal in creating the best quality of life for up to 4 adults with disabilities and special needs who live in this home. Using person-centered support, you will implement effective training programs, encourage independence and community engagement, and provide direct care with self-help skills and personal hygiene. Our team will provide in-depth training on how to provide quality, direct support that may include toileting and changing incontinence briefs, bathing, administering medication, feeding assistance, or any individualized care needed. You will be able to encourage and teach a positive and healthy lifestyle by preparing and demonstrating how to prepare light meals from a designated meal plan, following behavioral support plans, and participating in planned outings, hobbies, or activities. You will also be provided with a Chromebook to track individuals' objectives and complete progress reports using the online system, Therap. Thorough in-person training and on-the-job training will also prepare you to drive Burton Center vehicles, operate wheelchair lifts safely, use therapeutic options, and provide Basic Life Support and MedTech certifications.

Required Qualifications

SC Driver's License

Ability to lift or maneuver up to 50lbs,

Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time,

Ability to be adaptive, a team player, and advocate for others

Excellent oral and written communication skills

How To Apply

Please apply online through Burton Center's website at www.burtoncenter.org under Employment Opportunities. Once you have submitted your completed application, an HR representative will reach out to set up an interview if you are a qualified candidate.

All newly hired Burton Center staff must complete a mandatory in-person orientation, MedTech, and complete all assigned online training prior to on-the-job training. Orientation is held once a month, over the course of three days, from 9am-5pm.

2026 Orientation dates*

*Please note these dates are subject to change. We provide the tentative dates in advance to inform applicants of job requirements

March 24th-26th and 31st
April 21st-23rd and 30th
May 19th-21st and 28th
June 2nd-4th and 18th
July 14th-16th and 23rd
Aug 11th-13th and 20th
Sep 8th-10th and 17th
Oct 6th-8th and 15th
Nov 17th-19th and 25th
Dec 1-3 and 22nd

Apply