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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Pathways Inc.

Direct Support Professional

Morehead, KY

$12.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) As a DSP at Horizon Village, you will work directly with children ... Preferred but not required; experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is ...

Pathways Inc.

Direct Support Professional

Morehead, KY · On-site

$12.50/hr

Direct Support Professional (DSP) As a DSP at Horizon Village, you will work directly with children ... Preferred but not required; experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is ...

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Direct Support Worker information

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$8

$14

$18

How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support worker in Kentucky is $14.05, 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 are Direct Support Workers?

Direct Support Workers are professionals who assist individuals with disabilities, mental health issues, or developmental challenges in their daily lives. They help clients with tasks such as personal care, household chores, medication management, and community activities to promote independence and quality of life. Direct Support Workers often work in homes, group settings, or community organizations and play a vital role in supporting clients' physical, emotional, and social well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by Direct Support Workers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Direct Support Workers often encounter challenges such as managing clients with complex behavioral or medical needs and adapting to varying routines. Effective communication, patience, and ongoing training are essential in navigating these situations. Building strong, trusting relationships with clients and collaborating closely with families and healthcare professionals can also help manage difficulties. Many organizations provide regular supervision and access to support networks, which can be valuable resources for addressing workplace challenges.

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

AspectDirect Support WorkerPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires certifications like CPR, First Aid, and sometimes specialized trainingMay require similar certifications, especially First Aid and CPR, but less specialized training
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities, mental health, or developmental needs in community or residential settingsProvides personal care services in clients' homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providersHome healthcare agencies, private households, healthcare facilities

Both roles involve assisting individuals with daily activities, but Direct Support Workers typically work with people with disabilities or mental health needs in community settings, while Personal Care Assistants mainly provide personal care in home or healthcare environments. The certifications and work environments overlap, but the focus and client needs differ slightly.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Direct Support Worker typically earns less than $4,000 per week; high-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree include specialized sales, real estate brokers, certain skilled trades like commercial pilots or construction managers, and entrepreneurship. These positions often require experience, certifications, or licenses rather than formal degrees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Support Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Support Worker, you need a foundational understanding of person-centered care, basic health and safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with documentation systems, assistive technology, and first aid/CPR certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to communicate compassionately make someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial to effectively support individuals with disabilities, ensure their well-being, and foster independence in daily living.

What is the main role of a direct support worker?

A direct support worker provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, helping them with daily activities such as personal care, household tasks, and community engagement. They often work in clients' homes or care facilities and may require training in first aid, communication, and behavior management.

How much does a DSP make?

A Direct Support Worker (DSP) in Connecticut typically earns between $14 and $18 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific employer. The average annual salary ranges from approximately $29,000 to $37,000. Many DSPs work part-time or full-time, often requiring CPR and first aid certifications.

Is a degree needed to be a DSP?

A degree is not typically required to become a Direct Support Worker (DSP), but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills such as communication, patience, and experience with caregiving or support work are often more important, and some positions may require certification or training programs.

What Is a Direct Support Worker?

As a direct support worker, you provide care and training for people with developmental disabilities. You offer community support by using your skills and experience to help individuals become more active and social. Some direct support workers provide live-in, 24-hour support for clients, while others provide care on a regular, but less constant, basis. A career as a direct support worker requires you have some formal qualifications and education, typically a bachelor’s degree in health, counseling, or a related field.

More about Direct Support Worker jobs
What are popular job titles related to Direct Support Worker jobs in KY? For Direct Support Worker jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Direct Support Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support Worker job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,219 per year, or $14 per hour.
PASRR Direct Support Worker (KRCC - Perry County)

PASRR Direct Support Worker (KRCC - Perry County)

Kentucky River Community Care

Hazard, KY • On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Kentucky River Community Care rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Position: PASRR Direct Support Worker

Company/Location: Kentucky River Community Care/Perry Outpatient, Hazard, KY

Employment type: Regular Full-Time

Credentials: High school diploma or GED.  Some college a plus. Computer Skills (Word)

Primary functions:

  • Going to nursing facilities and working with PASRR clients to achieve goals.
  • Providing personal assistance to doctor visits, community retailers, events, etc. per client needs.
  • Input data into system; time management, attending training and plan of care meetings and reviews.
  • Traveling to counties to provide service.
  • Ability to provide nurturing attention and care to individuals with disabilities in a nursing facility.
  • Complete goals on Plan of Care
  • Ability to communicate effectively with staff, clients, and supervisors.

Shift/Days and Work Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 4:30pm

EEO

Texting Privacy Policy and Information:

  • Message type: Informational; you will receive text messages regarding your application and potentially regarding interview scheduling.
  • No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes.
  • Message frequency will vary depending on the application process.
  • Msg & data rates may apply.
  • OPT out at any time by texting "Stop".

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