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Residential Direct Support Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LIFE Inc

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Residential Direct Support Professional

Taunton, MA · On-site

$20 - $23.33/hr

We are currently hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our dedicated, responsible, and compassionate team. In this role, you'll support individuals in both residential and community ...

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How much do residential direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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 are residential direct support professionals?

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.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A Residential Direct Support worker typically earns hourly wages that may not reach $2,000 weekly without overtime or additional shifts. To increase income, workers can take on extra hours, work multiple positions, or pursue certifications that qualify them for higher-paying roles within the support field. Building experience and skills can also lead to higher pay over time.

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.

Is being a DSP a stressful job?

Being a Residential Direct Support Professional (DSP) can be stressful due to the need to manage challenging behaviors, provide personal care, and ensure safety for individuals with disabilities. The job often requires emotional resilience, patience, and strong communication skills, and shifts may include nights, weekends, or holidays, which can add to the workload's intensity.

What is the role of a direct support worker?

A direct support worker assists individuals with disabilities or mental health needs by providing daily living support, personal care, and assistance with community activities. They help promote independence and ensure safety, often working in clients' homes or community settings and may require training or certification in first aid or caregiving skills.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Residential Direct Support roles typically do not pay $4,000 a week without a degree; such high earnings are uncommon in this field. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often involve specialized skills, certifications, or experience in industries like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship. Most roles paying this amount require significant experience or licensing rather than just a high school diploma or no degree.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,357 per year, or $17 per hour.
Residential Direct Support Professional

Residential Direct Support Professional

LIFE Inc

Taunton, MA • On-site

$20 - $23.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

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Life Inc. (North Carolina) rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Are you looking for more than just a job?

At LIFE, we offer the opportunity to build a meaningful career while making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities across Rhode Island.

We are currently hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our dedicated, responsible, and compassionate team. In this role, you’ll support individuals in both residential and community-based settings—helping them build independence, confidence, and fulfilling lives. Whether you're assisting with daily routines, encouraging community engagement, or celebrating personal milestones, your work will truly matter.

Where You’ll Work:

  • Openings are available throughout Rhode Island, including Barrington, Bristol, Cranston, Middletown, Pawtucket, Riverside, Tiverton, and Warren.

Flexible Schedules to Fit Your Life:

  • We offer full-time and part-time positions across first, second, and third shifts, giving you the flexibility to find a schedule that works for you.

Competitive Pay + Generous Benefits:

We believe in taking care of the people who care for others!

  • Starting pay from $20.00 up to $23.33/hour (based on schedule)
  • Comprehensive and generous medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan options
  • Overtime opportunities for those who qualify
  • Paid training—no prior experience required
  • Regular step increases based on length of service
  • And more!

Grow With Us:

  • This isn’t just an entry-level role—it’s the beginning of a pathway. Many of our team members build long-term careers here, advancing into leadership, specialized support roles, and program management. We invest in your growth through hands-on training, mentorship, and ongoing development opportunities.

Who You Are:

  • Compassionate, reliable, and motivated
  • Eager to make a positive impact
  • A strong team player with a willingness to learn
  • A high school diploma (or equivalent) is preferred, but not required—we value the right attitude, willingness to learn, and commitment above all else
  • A driver’s license is strongly preferred but not always required

Ready to Get Started?
Take the first step toward a career that’s both meaningful and rewarding--apply today!

Company Description

LIFE Inc. is a private, non-profit organization devoted to providing a wide range of community-based experiences and supports to participants with developmental disabilities in Rhode Island in a non-discriminatory manner. Our staff and management team is committed to the participants they are hired to work for and are well-versed in promoting supportive environments and providing opportunities for both independence and growth. The framework of our mission and vision are clear:
• Support
• Choice
• Empowerment
LIFE Inc. supports adults with developmental disabilities in both 24-hour and non-24 hour settings. Each residential option is designed to meet a person’s specific goals and needs and to foster self-sufficiency and determination to their fullest potential.
LIFE Inc. works to provide a person-centered supportive environment for participants with disabilities through:
• Community Participation
• Creating Personal Goals
• Developing a Positive Self-Image
• Developing Independence
• Informed Choice Making
• Life Skill Development
• Relationship Building
• Self-Advocacy
We are committed to being an innovative and creative leader in supported resources:
• To continue educating ourselves, our community, and those we support
• To ensure satisfaction of participants by listening and participating in open, honest communication
• To promote equality as well as quality of life through freedom of choice and self-advocacy
• To encourage growth and accept change, not only in the participants we support, but also within ourselves and our ideas

What Life Inc. (North Carolina) employees say

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