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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

NeuLife

Direct Care Staff

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

... support individualized care plansQualifications:High school diploma or GED requiredMinimum 1 year of experience working with individuals with TBI or SCI preferredCertified Medication Aide (CMA) or ...

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All JobsDirect Support Worker JobsDirect Support Worker Jobs in Kentucky

Direct Support Worker information

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$14

$18

How much do direct support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 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 are the duties of a direct support worker?

A direct support worker provides assistance to individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions, helping with daily activities such as personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation. They also support clients in developing independence and social skills, often working in community or residential settings and following care plans under supervision.

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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,219 per year, or $14 per hour.

Direct Support Worker (KRCC- Breathitt ADTC; Jackson, KY)

Kentucky River Community Care

Jackson, KY • On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 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

Title: Direct Support Worker
Company/Location: Kentucky River Community Care/ Breathitt County; DDID Dept.
Employment Status: Regular Full-Time
Primary Duties:
  • Assist adults in everyday needs: including personal care (bathing, dressing, hygiene), meals, medications
  • Good attendance, dependable, reliability, patience, good attitude
  • Available to work a variety of shifts (including overnight in a home setting)
  • Available to attend the required amount of on the job training
  • Valid KY driver's license; ability to transport Adults to different locations
  • Must be able to work nights and weekend shifts

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".

What Kentucky River Community Care employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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