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Residential Direct Support Professional Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ

Position Overview We are seeking compassionate and reliable Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support individuals with developmental disabilities in both residential and community-based settings ...

Position Overview As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with ASG Home Care, you will provide hands-on support that promotes independence, community engagement, and daily living success. As a Direct ...

Position Overview As a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with ASG Home Care, you will provide hands-on support that promotes independence, community engagement, and daily living success. As a Direct ...

Abilis Programs (Residential, Day, LEAP, REACH, and Businesses) Supervisor: Program Manager, Program Coordinator, or Supervising Counselor Job Summary: As a Direct Support Professional (DSP), you ...

Direct Support Professional

Yonkers, NY · On-site

$17.74 - $19.94/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for supporting persons receiving services while promoting their personal, physical and emotional wellbeing. The primary role of the ...

Direct Support Professional - Residential

New City, NY

$18.11 - $20.11/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Come work in an environment where you can really make a difference and become a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Jawonio! Jawonio is dedicated to advancing the independence, well-being and ...

Direct Support Professional - Residential

New City, NY · On-site

$18.11 - $20.11/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Come work in an environment where you can really make a difference and become a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at Jawonio! Jawonio is dedicated to advancing the independence, well-being and ...

Showing results 21-40

Residential Direct Support Professional information

See Ridgewood, NJ salary details

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for residential direct support professional in Ridgewood, NJ is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $18.46 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 job categories do people searching Residential Direct Support Professional jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:

What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Residential Direct Support Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Residential Direct Support Professional job openings in Ridgewood, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,774 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Advancing Opportunities, Inc.

Little Falls, NJ • On-site

$17.15 - $18.15/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Job Description: ❤️ Make a Difference Every DayDirect Support Professional (DSP) ???? Woodland Park, New Jersey???? Department: Residential???? Service Line: Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities???? Full-Time | Sunday through Wednesday, 11:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.???? $17.15 per hour | $18.15 per hour for weekend hours???? DailyPay AvailableLooking for More Than Just a Job? At Advancing Opportunities, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful, fulfilling, and independent life. We are seeking a compassionate and dependable Direct Support Professional who wants to do more than earn a paycheck. In this overnight role, you will provide direct support to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health needs, helping to protect their health, wellness, dignity, independence, and safety. Whether you are beginning your career, changing professions, or bringing previous human services experience, this position offers an opportunity to perform meaningful work as part of a supportive, mission-driven team.About Advancing Opportunities Advancing Opportunities provides residential and community-based support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our employees help individuals strengthen daily living skills, pursue personal goals, build meaningful relationships, and participate more fully in their communities. Every day, our team members promote dignity, respect, inclusion, personal choice, safety, and independence while helping individuals live their best lives.Why Join Our Team????? Competitive Pay and BenefitsCompetitive weekday and weekend compensationDailyPay access to earned wages before paydayMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) retirement planPaid time offEmployee Assistance ProgramWellness programsEmployee referral bonusesCompany-paid training Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and the terms of the applicable benefit plans. ???? Career Growth and DevelopmentPaid training programsProfessional development opportunitiesCertification opportunitiesCareer advancement opportunitiesExperience in residential and community-based servicesOpportunities across multiple service lines ❤️ Meaningful Work That MattersMake a difference every dayHelp individuals achieve greater independenceSupport individuals and their familiesBuild meaningful relationshipsStrengthen communitiesJoin a mission-driven organizationPosition Summary The Direct Support Professional, or DSP, is a member of the clinical team who provides compassionate care and hands-on assistance to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health needs. Working collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team, the DSP helps meet each individual’s environmental, physical, psychosocial, and personal needs. The DSP provides the support necessary to help individuals live as independently as possible while protecting their health, wellness, dignity, privacy, and safety. During the overnight shift, the DSP maintains a safe and supportive residential environment, follows required supervision protocols, responds to individual needs, completes assigned household responsibilities, and documents services and activities accurately. This position supports the organization’s mission by promoting a culture of compassion, hope, service, respect, and collaboration. Reports to: Residential ManagerFLSA Status: Non-ExemptWhat You’ll Do As a Direct Support Professional, you will:Provide compassionate, respectful, and person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.Maintain the health, wellness, safety, and well-being of individuals residing in the home.Follow all supervision requirements identified in each individual’s Individualized Service Plan and Behavior Support Plan.Provide overnight supervision and respond promptly to individual needs, emergencies, behavioral concerns, or changes in health.Complete required overnight safety, sleep, awake, wellness, and household checks.Assist individuals with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, grooming, dressing, meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, shopping, and household maintenance.Support individuals in developing daily living, social, communication, safety, and community-participation skills.Encourage independence, personal choice, dignity, privacy, confidence, and quality of life.Help individuals pursue personal goals, build meaningful relationships, and participate in their communities.Create and maintain a safe, respectful, trauma-informed, and supportive residential environment.Provide supervision, guidance, and assistance based on each individual’s needs, abilities, service plan, and support requirements.Administer or assist with medications after completing required training and in accordance with established policies and procedures.Carry out prescribed healthcare programs and monitor individuals for changes in health or behavior.Implement behavioral programs according to individualized behavior plans.Teach skills using the methods and materials identified in Individualized Service Plans or Individual Habilitation Plans.Recognize and respond appropriately to emergencies, behavioral concerns, crises, or potential crisis situations.Remain calm and use approved techniques when responding to stressful, challenging, or emergency situations.Report suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment in accordance with organizational policies and applicable requirements.Maintain the confidentiality of individual information and records.Perform assigned household activities, including meal preparation, cleaning, maintenance, and other tasks necessary to ensure the home is ready for the following day.Transport and accompany individuals to appointments, programs, community activities, recreational outings, religious services, family visits, and other approved destinations when required.Follow all motor vehicle laws and organizational transportation procedures.Complete required documentation accurately, thoroughly, and on time.Maintain medication logs, daily logs, goal logs, incident reports, sleep and awake charts, weight charts, bowel movement charts, fire drill logs, seizure logs, behavior-plan documentation, vehicle logs, gas receipts, and consumer-fund records as applicable.Assist with maintaining individual and program files, tracking service-plan goals, monitoring progress, and preparing assigned reports.Document hours worked accurately through the designated timekeeping system.Work with the Lead DSP and Residential Manager to ensure individuals’ needs are addressed according to their service plans.Assist with community-home licensing activities, inspections, inquiries, and investigations.Assist the Residential Manager with special projects, emergency situations, and on-call activities when requested.Cooperate with authorized organizational and Department of Human Services representatives during inspections, inquiries, or investigations.Attend scheduled home and office staff meetings.Complete required pre-service, in-service, competency-based, and annual training.Follow organizational policies, Division of Developmental Disabilities requirements, licensing standards, OSHA requirements, fire and safety procedures, and HIPAA requirements.Perform other duties assigned by the Residential Manager, Lead DSP, or supervisor.Who We’re Looking For You may be a great fit if you are: ✔ Compassionate and respectful✔ Dependable and punctual✔ Patient and service-focused✔ Comfortable working an overnight schedule✔ Attentive and responsive during overnight hours✔ Comfortable providing hands-on assistance✔ Committed to dignity, privacy, safety, and personal choice✔ Able to remain calm during challenging situations✔ Organized and attentive to detail✔ A clear and professional communicator✔ Able to work independently with minimal supervision✔ A collaborative and supportive team member✔ Committed to helping others achieve their goals QualificationsRequiredHigh school diploma, GED, or equivalent certificate.Must be at least 21 years of age.Valid driver’s license and a driving record that meets organizational requirements.Current vehicle registration and insurance when use of a personal vehicle is required.Ability to read, write, communicate, and complete required documentation in English.Strong verbal and written communication skills.Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office, email, electronic timekeeping, and related applications.Strong documentation, organizational, mathematical, and time-management skills.Sound judgment and problem-solving abilities.Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, particularly during overnight hours.Ability to supervise or assist individuals receiving residential services.Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to health, behavioral, safety, and security concerns.Ability to react calmly and professionally during emergencies, crises, and other high-stress situations.Ability to complete and maintain all required training, including CPR and First Aid.Ability to satisfy all applicable pre-employment and ongoing screenings, including criminal background, CARI, Central Registry, drug-screening, and motor vehicle requirements.Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position.PreferredAssociate or bachelor’s degree.Six months to one year of direct experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.Previous experience in a human services, residential, behavioral health, or community-based setting.Previous overnight or awake-night residential experience.Knowledge of trauma-informed care and trauma-informed environments.Experience implementing individual service plans, habilitation plans, or behavioral support plans.Experience completing medication, service, behavioral, safety, or incident documentation.Schedule and CompensationFull-TimeSunday through Wednesday11:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.Four scheduled 10-hour overnight shiftsStandard weekday rate: $17.15 per hourWeekend rate: $18.15 per hour for eligible weekend hoursWork schedules are subject to change based on program and business needs.Flexibility may be required for alternate hours, locations, training, meetings, emergencies, holidays, or additional coverage. Physical Requirements and Working ConditionsAbility to remain awake, alert, and responsive throughout the overnight shift.Ability to stand or work for six to eight hours during a shift.Ability to sit for approximately two to three hours during a shift.Ability to drive a company vehicle for approximately one to four hours during a shift when required.Ability to bend, reach, stand, stoop, twist, sit, and climb stairs.Ability to lift more than 50 pounds when required to perform essential job duties.Ability to provide hands-on assistance to individuals as needed.Ability to safely operate vehicles, wheelchair lifts, adaptive equipment, telephones, computers, household appliances, and other assigned equipment after appropriate training.Ability to work in residential and community settings throughout New Jersey.Possible exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other workplace hazards associated with residential direct care.Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.Employment Requirements Employment is contingent upon successfully satisfying all requirements applicable to the position, which may include:Criminal background screeningChild Abuse Record Information screeningCentral Registry screeningDrug screeningDriver’s license and motor vehicle record verificationCompletion of required orientation and trainingCPR and First Aid certificationMedication-administration trainingAnnual competency requirementsCompliance with confidentiality and HIPAA requirementsCompliance with safety, licensing, and regulatory requirementsAttendance at required training sessions and staff meetings???? Apply Today Some jobs pay the bills.Some jobs build careers.This job changes lives. If you are looking for meaningful overnight work where your compassion, dependability, and dedication can make a real difference, we encourage you to apply today. Join our team and become the reason someone has a better day.About Our Organization Advancing Opportunities is part of the Inperium family of companies. Employment for this position is administered through Apis Services, Inc.Equal Opportunity Employer Apis Services, Inc., Inperium Inc., and their affiliates provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. This commitment extends to every phase and aspect of hiring and employment. Sunday-Wednesday 11:00 PM-9:00 AM