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Residential Direct Support Professional Jobs in Dothan, AL

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Residential Direct Support Professional information

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$8

$15

$18

How much do residential direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for residential direct support professional in Dothan, AL is $15.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a residential direct support professional?

Residential Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are individuals who provide care, support, and supervision to people with disabilities in residential settings. They assist clients with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management. DSPs also help foster independence, encourage social participation, and ensure the safety and well-being of those they support. Their role is crucial in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities.

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

To thrive as a Residential Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and a genuine commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, medication administration, and CPR/First Aid certification are commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and reliability help build trusting relationships and respond effectively to clients' needs. These skills ensure safety, promote independence, and enhance the quality of life for the individuals being supported.

What are some common challenges faced by residential direct support professionals, and how can they be managed?

Residential Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral issues, balancing the needs of multiple clients, and maintaining clear communication with team members and families. To effectively manage these challenges, it's important to utilize de-escalation techniques, stay organized with thorough documentation, and participate in regular team meetings to ensure everyone is aligned on care plans. Continuous training and support from supervisors also play a key role in helping staff feel confident and prepared in their responsibilities.

What is the difference between Residential Direct Support Professional vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectResidential Direct Support ProfessionalPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized certificationsCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentResidential facilities, group homes, community settingsPrivate homes, healthcare facilities, community settings
Job DutiesAssist individuals with daily living, medication management, skill developmentAssist with personal hygiene, mobility, daily tasks
Employer & IndustryHealthcare providers, social service agenciesHome healthcare agencies, private families

Both roles involve supporting individuals with daily needs, but Residential Direct Support Professionals typically work in group homes or community settings with a focus on skill development and medication management, while Personal Care Assistants often work in private homes assisting with personal hygiene and daily tasks. Certifications like CPR and First Aid are common for both roles.

Is being a residential direct support professional a stressful job?

Being a residential direct support professional can be stressful due to the need to manage challenging behaviors, ensure safety, and provide emotional support to residents with disabilities. The job often requires strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to handle unpredictable situations, which can contribute to stress levels. However, some find the role rewarding and manageable with proper training and support.

Is being a residential direct support professional worth it?

A residential direct support professional provides assistance to individuals with disabilities in a residential setting, often requiring patience, communication skills, and certification. The role offers job stability, opportunities for personal fulfillment, and the chance to develop valuable skills, though it may involve physically and emotionally demanding work shifts. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others and working in human services.

Where do residential direct support professionals get paid the most?

Residential 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.

What are popular job titles related to Residential Direct Support Professional jobs in Dothan, AL?

For Residential Direct Support Professional jobs in Dothan, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Residential Direct Support Professional jobs in Dothan, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs in Dothan, AL are:

What cities near Dothan, AL are hiring for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Dothan, AL with the most Residential Direct Support Professional job openings:

Residential Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Residential Direct Support Professional job openings in Dothan, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,143 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Direct Support Professional - Ozark, AL

Volunteers of America Southeast, Inc

Ozark, AL

$13.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL- OZARK, AL
Job Title: Direct Support Professional - OZARK, AL
Status: Part-Time
Pay: Starting at $13.50/hr
Shift: All Shifts Available (every other weekend required)
Type: Entry-Level
VOA Southeast is seeking to hire passionate care givers to provide direct care/support for the individuals in our program!
Function:
The Direct Support Professional is responsible for guiding, coaching and encouraging individuals to achieve their maximum level of independence. They will assure individuals have opportunities to learn and grow in accordance with personal outcome measures through education and life experiences.
Know How:
The position requires a person eighteen (18) years of age or older with a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
The position requires the ability to collaborate effectively with the person receiving services, co-workers, family members, related agencies and others. The person in this position must have the ability to assist individuals in achieving personal goals while promoting dignity and respect. The DSP must be able to communicate with individuals by listening and learning in the way that is most effective for the person. They will be able to establish rapport with individuals, family members, friends, and other natural supports to ensure comprehensive coordination. The employee must possess a high level of written communication skills, a valid Alabama driver’s license and the ability to meet the requirements of Volunteers of America Southeast’s vehicle insurance carrier, if applicable. The DSP must also be able to pass all required training courses including but not limited to First Aid, CPR, and CPI, and VOASE Policies amp; Procedures.
Included Daily Tasks:
  • Bathing
  • Feeding
  • Grooming/Hygiene Upkeep
  • Toileting
  • Medication Administration
  • Transportation Needs
  • Daily Documentation in Therap
  • Cooking
  • Cleaning
  • Laundry
BENEFITS PACKAGE OFFERED!
#OzarkAL

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