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Residential Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Hagerstown, MD ยท On-site

$17.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

DEDICATED DIRECT CARE PROFESSIONALS and CNA/ GNA certified direct care professionals ... Residential * Assist in the planning and preparation of nutritional, well-balanced meals * Support ...

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Residential Direct Support Professional information

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

As of Aug 13, 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 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 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 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 opportunities for meaningful work, but it can involve physically and emotionally demanding tasks with variable pay and schedules. Whether it is worth it depends on personal values and career goals related to caregiving and support services.
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:
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 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,357 per year, or $17 per hour.

Residential Direct Support Professional - FT Overnights

Southeastern Directions for Life

Sioux Falls, SD โ€ข On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Southeastern Directions for Life has an opening for a full-time overnight position available for a Residential Direct Support Professional. Our mission is "empowering people to discover their directions for life in a changing world." This position consists of 1 to 4 overnights with an occasional contact evening shift. The individual would be working in one of our group home settings with individuals with developmental disabilities.

JOB SUMMARY: Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) assist people we serve to lead self-directed lives and to be in and part of the community. They encourage attitudes & behaviors that enhance community inclusion. May act as an advocate for the individual in communicating their needs, self expression, & goals. DSPs work directly with the people we serve teaching them self-care, social, and communication skills. Depending on the needs of the people we support, DSPs provide assistance with daily living skills development, health maintenance, medication administration, personal care, and behavioral development. DSPs advocate and provide supports to assist individuals to be fully integrated into community life. Southeastern operates 24/7, 365 days a year. Must be able to work weekends and holidays when necessary. Flexibility during emergencies and inclement weather is required.

QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or equivalent. Must have a current driver's license, car insurance, and a driving record acceptable to Southeastern’s insurance provider. Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check to include fingerprinting, Dept. of Social Services Central Registry check, Motor Vehicle background check, and drug screening.

Benefits

  • 10 paid holidays
  • Health, Dental, Vision and Ancillary insurance
  • Company paid LTD and AD&D
  • 403B retirement with company match
  • EAP
  • Sick and Vacation leave accrued each month
  • Licensure Reimbursement

SEDL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.


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