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Respite Care Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Berkshire Healthcare

Cook/Diet Aide

Northampton, MA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

HRA * 401(k) From short term rehab and recovery to long term skilled nursing care, hospice services, restorative care, and even respite care, we are by your side. Charlene Manor, has been caring for ...

Berkshire Healthcare

Cook/Diet Aide

Springfield, MA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

HRA * 401(k) From short term rehab and recovery to long term skilled nursing care, hospice services, restorative care, and even respite care, we are by your side. Charlene Manor, has been caring for ...

Berkshire Healthcare

Cook/Diet Aide

Amherst, MA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

HRA * 401(k) From short term rehab and recovery to long term skilled nursing care, hospice services, restorative care, and even respite care, we are by your side. Charlene Manor, has been caring for ...

Berkshire Healthcare

Cook/Diet Aide

Holyoke, MA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

HRA * 401(k) From short term rehab and recovery to long term skilled nursing care, hospice services, restorative care, and even respite care, we are by your side. Charlene Manor, has been caring for ...

Berkshire Healthcare

Cook/Diet Aide

South Deerfield, MA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

HRA * 401(k) From short term rehab and recovery to long term skilled nursing care, hospice services, restorative care, and even respite care, we are by your side. Charlene Manor, has been caring for ...

Maxim Healthcare Services

LPN School

Hampden, MA

$40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We offer private duty nursing, skilled nursing, physical rehabilitation, companion care, respite care and behavioral care for individuals with chronic and acute illnesses and disabilities. Our ...

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All JobsRespite Care JobsRespite Care Jobs in Springfield, MA

Respite Care information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$14

$18

$20

How much do respite care jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for respite care in Springfield, MA is $18.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is respite care?

Respite care is a type of short-term relief provided to primary caregivers of individuals who are elderly, disabled, or chronically ill. It allows caregivers to take a temporary break from their duties, while ensuring that their loved ones continue to receive proper care and supervision. Respite care can be provided at home, in a healthcare facility, or at an adult day center, and may range from a few hours to several days. This service helps reduce caregiver stress and prevent burnout, while also supporting the well-being of the person receiving care.

What are respite care jobs?

The role of someone in respite care is to provide in home assistance, often for an elderly person or someone with special needs, while their regular caretaker runs errands, works, or takes care of other obligations. Respite care jobs are typically only for a few hours a day, but some people in this position may provide longer-term assistance. Common responsibilities are to look after a patient, transport them to activities or appointments, and help with help with chores such as housekeeping. The qualifications to get a job in respite care vary, but may include prior experience working with people that have certain conditions, CPR certification, a valid driver’s license, and patience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a respite care worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Respite Care Worker, you need a basic understanding of caregiving practices, first aid, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers requiring additional certifications in caregiving or CPR. Familiarity with care documentation systems and mobility assistance tools is typical in this role. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication skills help build trust and provide emotional support to both clients and their families. These skills ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of individuals in need of temporary care, while offering essential relief to their primary caregivers.

What are some common challenges respite care providers face when working with clients and their families?

Respite care providers often encounter challenges related to adapting to each client's unique needs, preferences, and routines, especially when stepping into an established care environment. Building trust quickly with both the person receiving care and their family is essential, as families may be anxious about leaving their loved one in someone else's hands. Additionally, providers must be flexible and sensitive to emotional dynamics, as caregivers may experience guilt or stress about taking time away. Strong communication skills and patience are key to navigating these situations successfully.

What is the difference between Respite Care vs Home Health Aide?

AspectRespite CareHome Health Aide
CredentialsVaries; often no formal certification required, but certifications like CPR may be preferredCertified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification often required
Work EnvironmentProvided in clients' homes, care facilities, or community settingsPrimarily in clients' homes
Job FocusTemporary relief for primary caregivers, focusing on companionship and basic assistanceAssisting with daily living activities, basic health monitoring
Employer & IndustryHome care agencies, community organizationsHome health agencies, hospitals, private families

Respite Care and Home Health Aides both work in home settings, but Respite Care provides temporary relief for primary caregivers without necessarily offering medical services, while Home Health Aides deliver ongoing health-related assistance and require certification. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right support for their needs.

How do you become a respite care worker?

To become a respite care worker, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to complete training in caregiving, first aid, and CPR. Some states or agencies also require background checks and relevant experience working with children or individuals with disabilities. Certification is not always mandatory but can improve job prospects and credibility in the field.

What are the duties of a respite care worker?

A respite care worker provides temporary relief to primary caregivers by assisting with daily activities, supervising clients, administering medication, and ensuring safety. They may also support clients with personal care, companionship, and implementing care plans, often requiring good communication skills and relevant certifications. The role typically involves working in clients' homes or care facilities and may require flexibility in scheduling.
More about Respite Care jobs

What job categories do people searching Respite Care jobs in Springfield, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Respite Care jobs in Springfield, MA are:

What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Respite Care jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Respite Care job openings:

Respite Care jobs near you
Infographic showing various Respite Care job openings in Springfield, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,659 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

DDS Respite Coordinator

New North Citizens Council Inc

Springfield, MA • On-site

$23/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Job Title: Respite Worker

Department: DDS Community Respite Program
Reports To: Respite Coordinator

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Location: Springfield, MA
Employment Type: Part-Time (10 hours/week)

Salary Range: $23/hour


About New North Citizens’ Council (NNCC)

New North Citizens’ Council is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents through education, workforce development, family support, and community services. NNCC is committed to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive service delivery.


Position Summary

The Community Respite Worker provides individualized and group respite services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Working under the direction of the Respite Coordinator and in accordance with Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) guidelines, this position supports safe, meaningful community participation while providing families and caregivers with dependable respite support.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

(Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.)


Respite & Individual Support

  • Provide individualized and group respite services in community-based settings.
  • Support individuals in participating in recreational, social, educational, and other preferred community activities.
  • Provide person-centered support based on each individual's interests, abilities, needs, and goals.
  • Promote independence, positive social interaction, and community inclusion.
  • Model and reinforce positive behavior and appropriate social skills.
  • Recognize and respond appropriately to individual health, behavioral, and safety needs.
  • Provide transportation to approved activities and community locations as required.

Family & Program Coordination

  • Develop positive, respectful relationships with individuals and their families or caregivers.
  • Maintain regular communication with the Respite Coordinator, Family Support Navigator, and other program staff regarding services and participant needs.
  • Assist with planning and coordinating group respite and community activities.
  • Maintain knowledge of community activities, recreational opportunities, and resources appropriate for program participants.
  • Communicate changes, concerns, incidents, or service needs promptly to the appropriate program staff.

Documentation & Compliance

  • Complete weekly service documentation and other required program records accurately and on time.
  • Follow DDS requirements, individualized support plans, agency policies, and applicable health and safety procedures.
  • Maintain participant confidentiality and professional boundaries.
  • Participate in required meetings, training, and professional development activities.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.


Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
  • Experience working with children or adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and provide reliable, patient, and compassionate support.
  • Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to individual health, behavioral, and safety needs.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
  • Basic computer skills and ability to complete required electronic or written documentation.
  • Valid Massachusetts driver's license and access to a reliable transportation.


Preferred Qualifications

  • 2 or more years of experience in human services, respite care, direct support, or a related field.
  • Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
  • Training or experience in Positive Behavioral Supports, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), or related approaches.
  • Knowledge of community-based recreational and social opportunities.
  • Bilingual and bicultural (English/Spanish).

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Core Competencies

  • Person-Centered Support
  • Reliability & Accountability
  • Communication & Relationship Building
  • Safety Awareness
  • Cultural Responsiveness
  • Teamwork & Collaboration

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

  • Work is primarily performed in community settings and may include individual, family, and group environments.
  • Regular local travel and transportation of participants to approved activities may be required.
  • The position may require standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and participating in community activities for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Work schedules may vary based on participant and family respite needs and may include evenings or weekends.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.


Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

New North Citizens’ Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.


ADA & Reasonable Accommodation Statement

NNCC is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).


At-Will Employment Disclaimer

Employment with NNCC is at-will and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.


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