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Live In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

Chimes

Direct Support Professional

Fairfax, VA

$21.53/hr

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 ...

Chimes

Direct Support Professional

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$21.53/hr

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 ...

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All JobsLive In Direct Support Professional JobsLive In Direct Support Professional Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

Live In Direct Support Professional information

See Gaithersburg, MD salary details

$10

$17

$22

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in direct support professional in Gaithersburg, MD is $17.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 shift work, requires patience and communication skills, and can include benefits such as housing and flexible schedules, making it a rewarding but demanding position.

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 complexity of care required, with some states offering additional stipends or benefits for live-in roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support Professional jobs in Gaithersburg, MD?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities near Gaithersburg, MD are hiring for Live In Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Gaithersburg, MD 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 Gaithersburg, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,596 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Live-In Direct Support Professional

MARYLAND NEIGHBORLY NETWORKS INC

College Park, MD

$14.75 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

This position opening is for a live-in Direct Support Professional. The live-In Direct Support Professional (DSP) will live in a shared home with other staff and 2-3 individuals with intellectual disabilities, and be responsible for supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities in a community-based home. The DSP resonsibilities will include, but not limited to, providing assistance to individuals in establishing relationships in the community through the planning and participation in community based events, personal care as needed, household maintenance, financial management, shopping and meal preparation.

Schedule: Sunday Night - Friday Morning beginning Sunday night 10pm to 8am daily. Days free, and weekends off.

Compensation: Free Rent / Room & Board with own private bedrrom, along with other amenities including, but not limited to, some meals/food to eat; NO HOURLY PAY.

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