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Live In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Erie, PA

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Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

The primary responsibility of the Direct Support Professional is to create and preserve a culture of excellence, compassion and integrity in the delivery of services to our individuals. The DSP is ...

Kaleidascope Inc

Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Job Overview: The Direct Support Staff focuses on empowering individuals to access essential ... Identify and participate in activities that provide purpose and responsibility. * Join and ...

Kaleidascope Inc

Direct Support Professional

Erie, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

The Direct Support Staff focuses on empowering individuals to access essential services, overcome ... Identify and participate in activities that provide purpose and responsibility. * Join and ...

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in direct support professional in Erie, PA is $15.78, 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 Erie, PA? The most popular types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Erie, PA are:
What job categories do people searching Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Erie, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs in Erie, PA are:
What cities near Erie, PA are hiring for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities near Erie, PA 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 Erie, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 54% Full Time, and 41% Part Time. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,816 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Direct Support Professional/Companion

Kaleidoscope Family Solutions, Inc.

Waterford, PA • On-site

$11.25 - $13.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Location: Waterford, PA 16441
Date Posted: 07/01/2026
Category: Direct Care Services
Education: High School Diploma/GED

b>Come create a colorful difference with Kaleidoscope Family Solutions (KFS)!!!Kaleidoscope Family Solutions, Inc. provides community and home-based services to persons with autism and intellectual disabilities. Our team partners with family members and existing providers to create individualized goals allowing the team to help improve Individuals' life experiences.The individuals we support are in need of dedicated, caring, and reliable Direct Support Professionals eager to make a difference in their lives!DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT OPPORTUNITY* Assist Individuals as they develop and maintain skills to improve their daily-living and social skills* Engage in activities with Individuals to live more independently within the community and/or be more productive and participatory in community life* Maintain annual 24 hour training requirementsREQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION FOR DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL* Must be compassionate and willing to care for the well-being of others* Minimum of a High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED)* Willing to complete given background checks* Valid Driver's License and existing insurance* Willing and able to drive individuals in personal car throughout the community* Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills* Flexibility is preferred to allow more opportunity for individual assignmentsADVANTAGES* Compensation processed weekly* Flexible work hours including evenings and weekends* Personal and professional fulfillment in an impactful roleKaleidoscope Family Solutions, Inc. is an EEO employer.ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCandidates submitting their resume also usually have experience or interest in other roles including Residential Aides, Direct Support Professional, DSPs, Care Givers, Aides, Home Health Aide, Mental Health Technicians, MHTs, Behavior Health Technicians, BHTs, and Youth Care Workers.

Title: Direct Support Professional/Companion
Class: Direct Care Support
Type: CONTRACT
Ref. No.: 1316805-3
BC: #KFS201
Company: Kaleidoscope Family Solutions, Inc.
Contract Contact: WPA Careers
Office Email: WPA@kfamilysolutions.org
Office Phone: 267-223-6380
Office Address: 600 North Bell Avenue, Bldg. 2, Suite 240, Carnegie, PA 15106
Each Kaleidoscope Family Solutions (KFS) office is separately incorporated. Registering on the Kaleidoscope web portal is not a guarantee that contracting opportunities will be available and/or located. Further steps are required to complete your registration with the appropriate legal Kaleidoscope (KFS) entity. Professionals contracting through KFS are classified and compensated as self-employed independent contractors.