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Direct Support Professional Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Oak Hill

$57.86/hr

Direct Support Professional Substitute - Farmington, CT Farmington, CT, USA Posted Friday, August 28, 2026 at 4:00 AM Make a Meaningful Difference Every Day At Oak Hill, you'll do more than provide ...

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Direct Support Professional information

See Kentucky salary details

$8

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How much do direct support professional jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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.
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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 - Eastern Montgomery County

KenCrest

Eastern, KY

$16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

KenCrest rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

NEW RATES STARTING AT $16.00 per hour

Direct Support Professional

Full and Part Time, Rotating Weekends

Day Shift, Evening Shift, Overnight, Weekend Only

Do you have a special skill and passion for supporting people? Do you believe we are better together when everyone is included?

KenCrest is hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) / Home Health Aides to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Eastern Montgomery County.

The Direct Support Professional role is for people who enjoy helping others and making a difference. In this role, you support individuals in their daily lives while encouraging independence, choice, and community involvement. You will act as both a caregiver and a life coach, helping individuals reach their personal goals.

Working at KenCrest can be fulfilling if you enjoy advocating for people who may have difficulty speaking up for themselves. This role is rewarding if you like creating activities, building relationships, and helping individuals connect with their community.

Paid Mandatory Orientation (Required for All DSPs)
To support your success, all newly hired Direct Support Professionals, regardless of full-time, part-time, or other employment status, complete a mandatory two-week paid new employee orientation during their first two weeks of employment. During this time, you will complete important required trainings, including Medication Administration, MANDT, and CPR/First Aid, along with other state-required trainings. This orientation helps you understand how KenCrest works and gives you the tools you need to feel confident and prepared in your role. It is required for all DSPs, regardless of prior experience.


If you are looking for meaningful work, supportive training, and the chance to make a real impact, we encourage you to apply.

Common Daily Tasks

  • Serve as a caregiver and life coach to promote independence

  • Assist with daily living activities such as personal care, meals, medication administration, social outings, and shopping

  • Support individuals with communication and self-expression

  • Complete general housekeeping tasks and meal preparation

  • Help individuals work toward their personal goals and participate in community activities

  • Complete required documentation such as incident reports, behavioral data, seizure charts, and medical visit forms

Required for Employment

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Valid and Current driver's license and acceptable motor vehicle record (2 years' driving experience required) *Driver's License, insurance and registration must be aligned with state of permanent residence*

  • Ability to pass background checks and drug screening per state requirements

  • Ability to understand, speak, read, and follow instructions in English

  • Strong communication skills

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Preferred Qualifications

  • One (1) year of experience supporting individuals with autism and/or intellectual disabilities (preferred)

KenCrest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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