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Residential Direct Support Professional

La Grande, OR · On-site

$20/hr

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

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How much do residential direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for residential direct support 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 caregivers who assist individuals with disabilities or special needs in residential settings, such as group homes or assisted living facilities. They help with daily living activities like meal preparation, personal hygiene, medication management, and community integration. Residential DSPs also provide emotional support, encourage skill development, and ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals they support. Their role is vital in promoting independence and quality of life for people with 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 foundational understanding of developmental disabilities, personal care techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with individualized support plans, electronic documentation systems, and sometimes certifications like CPR/First Aid are commonly required. Patience, empathy, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help build positive relationships and respond effectively to clients’ needs. These skills ensure clients receive respectful, safe, and empowering support, promoting their independence and quality of life.

What does a residential direct support staff do?

A residential direct support staff provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs in a residential setting. They help with daily activities such as personal care, medication management, and household tasks, while promoting independence and safety. The role often requires good communication skills and relevant certifications or training.

What skills are needed for a residential direct support job?

Residential direct support workers need strong communication, patience, and interpersonal skills to assist individuals with daily activities and behavioral needs. They should also have problem-solving abilities, basic knowledge of health and safety protocols, and often require certification in CPR and first aid. Empathy, reliability, and the ability to work flexible hours are essential for success in this role.

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

Residential Direct Support professionals often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable behaviors, balancing the needs of multiple residents, and maintaining clear communication with team members and families. These challenges can be addressed through ongoing training, strong teamwork, and regular supervision. Many organizations provide support systems and encourage open communication to ensure staff feel equipped and supported in their daily responsibilities. Building rapport with residents and utilizing de-escalation techniques also play a key role in overcoming daily hurdles.

What is the difference between Residential Direct Support vs Residential Care Worker?

AspectResidential Direct SupportResidential Care Worker
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes DSP certificationCPR, First Aid, sometimes DSP certification
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals with disabilities in residential settingsProviding care and support in group homes or residential facilities
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, social services, disability support agenciesHealthcare, social services, residential facilities
Job FocusSupporting daily living, personal care, and community integrationAssisting with daily activities, personal care, and safety

Both roles involve supporting individuals in residential settings, often requiring similar certifications and working within healthcare or social service industries. Residential Direct Support typically emphasizes personalized assistance for individuals with disabilities, focusing on community integration and independence, while Residential Care Workers may have a broader scope of providing general care and supervision in residential facilities.

More about Residential Direct Support jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Residential Direct Support jobs? The most popular types of Residential Direct Support jobs are:
What states have the most Residential Direct Support jobs? States with the most job openings for Residential Direct Support jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Residential Direct Support jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Residential Direct Support jobs are:
Residential Direct Support jobs near you
Infographic showing various Residential Direct Support job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% 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 - Full Time or Part Time

PathWays

Washington, PA • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description


Make a Difference Every Day - Become a Residential Direct Support Professional at PathWays!

At PathWays, we believe that every person deserves to live a life filled with independence, dignity, and joy. That's why we're looking for dedicated, compassionate, and dependable individuals to join our Residential Team and help adults with intellectual disabilities and Autism thrive.

If you're someone who wants to create meaningful moments, teach essential life skills, and be a real-life difference maker - we'd love to meet you!

Why You'll Love Being Part of the PathWays Family:

  • Starting Rate: $18/hour
    If you already hold one or more National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) certifications, you may be eligible for a higher starting rate - up to $24/hour!
  • Medical, Dental & Vision - Starts the 1st of the month after you're hired
  • Generous Paid Time Off - vacation, sick days & holidays (after 90 days!)
  • Paid Trainings - CPR, Medication Administration, and more!
  • FREE Employee Assistance Program
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan
  • Employee Referral Bonuses

Career Development at PathWays:

We're committed to helping our team members grow in their careers! PathWays offers the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) Certification Program, which includes three levels of certification.


Each certification level comes with valuable professional development opportunities and a $1.50 per hour rate increase as you advance.

Your hard work and dedication don't just make a difference - they're rewarded and recognized here.

What You'll Be Doing as a Residential DSP:

As a Residential Direct Support Professional, you'll support individuals in our Residential Homes with daily living and life-enriching experiences. You'll help build routines, teach skills, and most importantly - be someone they can count on.

A few things you'll help with:

  • Personal care: eating, grooming, bathing, dressing, etc.
  • Meal prep and kitchen fun (yes, cooking together counts!)
  • Light housekeeping
  • Medication administration and medical appointments
  • Fun community outings, errands, and day trips
  • Building confidence, independence, and meaningful connections

Who We're Looking For:

  • You treat everyone with dignity, respect, and kindness
  • You're reliable, responsible, and ready to be a role model
  • You're a helper at heart, with a strong sense of compassion
  • You're ready to support physical, emotional, and social growth
  • You want a job that matters - and changes lives

Apply