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

As of Jun 9, 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 are Residential Direct Support Professionals?

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 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 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Residential Direct Support Professionals typically do not earn $10,000 a month without additional certifications or experience. High-paying roles that can reach this level often include specialized trades, sales positions, or entrepreneurship, but these usually require skills, training, or licensing rather than a formal degree. Most jobs paying this much without a degree are rare and often involve commission, bonuses, or business ownership.

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.

More about Residential Direct Support Professional jobs
What cities are hiring for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs? Cities with the most Residential Direct Support Professional job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs? The top employers for Residential Direct Support Professional jobs are:
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:
Residential Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Residential Direct Support Professional job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,357 per year, or $17 per hour.
Residential Direct Support Professional (FT) | Bellefonte, PA

Residential Direct Support Professional (FT) | Bellefonte, PA

The Arc of Centre County

Bellefonte, PA

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Residential Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Pay: $18/hour + Shift Differentials + $1,200 Sign-on Bonus
Location:  Bellefonte, PA
Schedule: Full-Time (Typical shifts 7a-2p or 2p-10p)

No Experience Needed (all training is paid!). Part time positions are also available.

Schedule & Pay

  • Starting pay: $18/hour
  • $1,200 sign-on/stay-on bonus
  • Additional $1/hour shift differentials for late nights, weekends, and holidays (differentials can stack!)
  • Opportunities to pick up extra shifts and overtime (time-and-a-half)

Benefits

  • 26 hours of paid training per year
  • 12 sick days and 9 vacation days accumulated in your first year (plus 12 "Flex" days!)
  • 6 premium holidays annually; time-and-a-half pay for hourly employees who work those holidays
  • Mileage reimbursed at $0.725/mile if using personal vehicle to transport individuals
  • Medical, Dental, Vision (Capital Blue Cross)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Life and AD&D Insurance (Equitable)
  • Short & Long Term Disability (Equitable)
  • Voluntary Life Insurance (Equitable)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401(K) Retirement Plan

Required Qualifications

  • 18+ years of age
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid driver's license (agency vehicles provided for community outings)
  • TB test and physical
  • Able to lift 50 pounds & assist with physical supports such as lifting, bending, standing, etc.

No experience is required - all training is paid!

What You'll Do

  • Provide direct support to adults with IDD/A in residential homes
  • Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) including cooking, hygiene, and routines
  • Support individuals in building independence & life skills
  • Provide community-based support, including transportation to activities and appointments
  • Promote a safe, respectful, and person-centered care environment
  • Build meaningful relationships while making a difference every day

Growth Opportunities

  • Cross-Program Experience: Staff can explore different service areas such as residential services, community programming, employment services, or supported living to broaden their experience.
  • Professional Training: We invest in our DSPs by supporting NADSP credentialing  that recognize the important work they do every day. Credentialed DSPs earn an extra $1/hour per credentialed level, up to and additional $3/hour!
  • Internal Promotion Culture: The Arc of Centre County believes in promoting from within. Many of our Director-level and Executive-level administrators started as DSPs!

About the Role

The Arc of Centre County is hiring Full Time Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism (IDD/A) in group homes in Bellefonte, PA.

DSPs play an important role in helping individuals build greater independence and enjoy more meaningful lives, while forming positive, supportive relationships along the way.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking for entry-level work or a rewarding, purpose-driven career. Paid training is provided, so you can begin a career in human services with the support and confidence to succeed.

Apply Today! Have fun. Make a difference. Achieve with Us®

Questions? Text Mo at (814) 810-7031

Apply