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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

The New Cool

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Louisville, KY · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Read, understand and implement written and oral instructions; perform required documentation, participant in participants person centered plan Has two years' experience providing direct supports to ...

The New Cool

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Louisville, KY · On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Read, understand and implement written and oral instructions; perform required documentation, participant in participants person centered plan Has two years' experience providing direct supports to ...

RHA Health Services, LLC

$41.33/hr

## Caregiver / Direct Support Professional / YadkinApplylocations: Hamptonville, NCtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R61884**We are hiring for:**Caregiver / Direct Support ...

Residential Services Inc.

$53.73/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) (Mora, MN) Residential Services, Inc. (RSI) is hiring a full-time Direct Support Professional(DSP) for our adult foster care home in Mora, MN. As a DSP, you will ...

Limitless Decatur

$11 - $13.50/hr

# Direct Support Professional - 5am - 9am PTHot JobEducation LevelHigh School## DescriptionIf so, Macon Resources is the place for you! MRI serves **over 800 children and adults with disabilities*

Meridian Services Incorporated

$53.86/hr

Direct Support Professional Location: New Brighton, MN (multiple schedules available across various locations) Schedule: Mon 5p-9p, Tues 2p-10p, Wed 2p-9p and E/O Weekend 12p-9p Wage: $19.00 hourly ...

New

Communicare KY

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Description POSITION SUMMARY : Provides services to enable participants to accomplish tasks that the participant normally would do for themselves if the participant did not have a disability. In some ...

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All JobsDirect Support Professional JobsDirect Support Professional Jobs in Kentucky

Direct Support Professional information

See Kentucky salary details

$8

$14

$17

How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support professional in Kentucky is $14.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct support professional?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are caregivers who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their daily lives. They help with personal care, medication management, meal preparation, and transportation, while also supporting clients in achieving personal goals and participating in community activities. DSPs play a vital role in promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life for those they support.

What are some common challenges direct support professionals face when supporting individuals with disabilities, and how can they effectively handle them?

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) often encounter challenges such as managing behavioral outbursts, ensuring effective communication with nonverbal individuals, and balancing the need for independence with safety. Handling these situations requires patience, empathy, and strong problem-solving skills. Many DSPs find it helpful to use individualized behavior support plans, maintain clear communication with team members, and participate in ongoing training. Building trust and understanding the unique needs of each individual also play a key role in overcoming daily challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a direct support professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Professional, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic caregiving knowledge, and an understanding of developmental disabilities. Familiarity with documentation systems, incident reporting tools, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Patience, strong interpersonal skills, and empathy are crucial soft skills for effectively supporting individuals and building trust. These skills are vital for ensuring client safety, promoting independence, and delivering compassionate care tailored to each individual's needs.

What is the difference between Direct Support Professional vs Personal Care Assistant?

AspectDirect Support ProfessionalPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, sometimes specialized trainingCPR, First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals with disabilities in community or residential settingsProviding personal care in private homes or facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome care agencies, private clients

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, often requiring similar certifications like CPR and First Aid. However, Direct Support Professionals typically work in community or residential settings supporting people with disabilities, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal care services in private homes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the role that best matches their skills and career goals.

Where do direct support professionals get paid the most?

Direct Support Professionals tend to earn higher wages in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare and social services, such as certain metropolitan areas. States or areas with a strong focus on healthcare, social services, or specialized care often offer higher pay rates for this role. Factors like experience, certifications, and the specific employer also influence salary levels.
More about Direct Support Professional jobs

What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Professional jobs in Kentucky?

For Direct Support Professional jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Support Professional jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Support Professional jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Direct Support Professional jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Direct Support Professional job openings:

Direct Support Professional jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Professional job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,418 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Marpe Contractors

Florence, KY • On-site

$17/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description:

We are seeking compassionate and dependable Community Living Supports (CLS) Providers to support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in their homes and communities. This is a 1099 Independent Contractor opportunity with a pay rate of $17.00 per hour.


Responsibilities

  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), personal care, and household tasks.
  • Support community participation, socialization, and skill development.
  • Provide transportation to recreational activities, and other community outings.
  • Support individuals with verbal and non-verbal communication needs.
  • Follow person-centered support plans and help individuals achieve their personal goals.
  • Provide redirection when needed.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Experience supporting individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities is preferred but not required.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and maintain professionalism.

Requirements

  • Valid driver's license, active auto insurance, and reliable transportation.
  • Comfortable transporting individuals in your personal vehicle.
  • Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and TB test 
  • Current CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain certification.
  • Complete required trainings, including: 
  • Crisis Prevention & Intervention (CPI)
  • Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Prevention
  • College of Direct Supports (CDS) Training

Service Areas

We are currently seeking compassionate and dedicated Community Living Supports (CLS) Providers in the following Kentucky locations:

  • Boone County (Florence, KY)
  • Warren County (Bowling Green, KY)
  • Jefferson County (Louisville, KY)
  • Christian County (Hopkinsville, KY)


Why Join Marpe?

At Marpe, we are committed to helping individuals live independently and thrive in their communities. We are looking for reliable, patient, and compassionate providers who are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of others every day.


Requirements: