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As a Residential Direct Support Professional, you'll provide personalized care to individuals living in one of our group homes in Southeast Salem. Your goal is to engage with and be present for ...

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for residential direct support professional in the United States is $17.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.27 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.
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What cities are hiring for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities with the most Residential Direct Support Professional job openings:

What states have the most Residential Direct Support Professional jobs?

States with the most job openings for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Residential Direct Support Professional jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs are:

Infographic showing various Residential Direct Support Professional job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,357 per year, or $17 per hour.

Residential-Direct Support Professional (Waiver)

Innovative Life Solutions

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$19.25 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Part-time
Description
Location: Washington, D.C.
Job Type: Full-Time Part-Time
Sign-On Bonus: $750 for New Hires
About the Role
We are hiring dedicated Residential Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in a residential home setting. As a DSP, you will help individuals with their daily routines, promote independence, and ensure a safe and supportive living environment. This is a meaningful opportunity for compassionate individuals seeking to grow in healthcare.
Available Shifts
  • Day Shift: 6:00 AM-2:00 PM, 7:00 AM-3:00 PM, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
  • Evening Shift: 2:00 PM-10:00 PM, 3:00 PM-11:00 PM, 4:00 PM -12:00 AM

Requirements
Key Responsibilities
โ€ข Assist with personal care tasks (bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, feeding)
โ€ข Monitor and document individuals' physical and emotional well-being
โ€ข Must be able to assist Individuals through all types of behavioral challenges appropriately
โ€ข Administer medications (according to training and policy)
โ€ข Support individuals with mobility and the use of adaptive equipment
โ€ข Maintain a clean, safe, and organized home environment
โ€ข Prepare meals and follow individual dietary plans
โ€ข Assist with community outings and recreational activities
โ€ข Implement individualized support and behavioral plans
โ€ข Complete accurate daily electronic documentation and comply with HIPAA and IDD regulations within the Therap platform
โ€ข Promote independence and meaningful participation in daily life
โ€ข Respond to emergencies and follow safety protocols
โ€ข Higher-functioning individuals should be encouraged to complete their ADLs and household duties with assistance rather than having the staff complete them. Staff should make provisions for each person supported to account for person-centered programming.
Who Should Apply
This position is perfect for:
โ€ข Human services or psychology students seeking hands-on experience.
โ€ข Candidates with experience supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
โ€ข LPN or RN students looking for patient care experience
โ€ข Medical Assistant students or Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs)
โ€ข Individuals with experience in nursing homes, assisted living, or home healthcare
โ€ข Dedicated individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.
Requirements
โ€ข High school diploma or GED (required)
โ€ข Must be 18 years or older
โ€ข Speak English
โ€ข Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team
โ€ข Ability to lift, transfer, and physically support individuals as needed
โ€ข Valid Driver's License and reliable transportation (required for some sites)
Certifications & Screenings
โ€ข CPR & First Aid Certification (required)
โ€ข Medication Administration Training (preferred or provided)
โ€ข Crisis Prevention/Intervention Training (preferred)
โ€ข Proof of COVID-19 vaccination (required)
โ€ข Must pass national and state criminal background checks
โ€ข Must complete TB/PPD test and physical exam
โ€ข Subject to DMV screening and random drug testing
Why Join Our Team
โ€ข $750 Sign-On Bonus for New Hires
โ€ข Flexible Scheduling - Choose from day, evening, or overnight shifts
โ€ข Career Growth - Gain experience in the healthcare and human services field
โ€ข Meaningful Work - Directly impact lives in your community
โ€ข Supportive Team - Work in a positive and inclusive environment
โ€ข Comprehensive Training Provided
How to Apply
Expected Methods of Communication
Team members are expected to check and respond to communications regularly:
โ€ข Email
โ€ข Text Message
โ€ข Paylocity (company HR and communication platform)
Apply today and join a team that's making a difference every day. Submit your resume and application on Indeed or at
Join - Innovative Life Healthcare.