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Direct Support Worker Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Support Worker information

See Kentucky salary details

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$14

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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 Professional (DSP) / Caregiver

Dungarvin

Owensboro, KY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Dungarvin rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 240 rated social care providers

Job description

Company Description

***This position will work out of Evansville, IN***

Who we are: 

At Dungarvin, we are more than a provider of support services—we’re a mission-driven team rooted in respect, response and choice. Since 1976, we’ve been dedicated to meeting people where they are, working alongside them to provide person centered supports that allow people to live independently as possible. You’ll work directly with people in need of assistance, and/or living with intellectual or developmental disabilities, or other complex medical needs.

With services nationwide, our team is united by a shared commitment to making a real difference—one person, one voice, one choice at a time. We encourage you to embrace this opportunity to impact someone’s life. 


                      Join our team as a Direct Support Professional / Caregiver in Evansville, IN.

Schedule: Multiple Shifts Available!

Wage:  $15.50/hour

Company Perks/Benefits:

  • Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance for FT employees
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Flex Spending and HSA Accounts for FT employees
  • Pet Insurance
  • Life Insurance for FT employees
  • 401 K plan with up to  3% employer match after one year of services
  • PAID TIME OFF (PTO) for eligible employees
  • PTO Donation
  • Growth and Development Opportunities
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • National Brand Discounts
  • Tapcheck - access to 50% of your pay before payday
  • PAID training and orientation
Job Description

***This person will work out of Evansville, IN***

What You Get To Do:

A Direct Support Professional (DSP) caregiver provides direct support, positive direction, instruction, and assistance to individuals with mental, intellectual & developmental, and physical disabilities.  The ultimate goal is to empower individuals with disabilities to live as independently and comfortably as possible while maintaining their dignity and respect.

  • Provide hands-on assistance, encouragement, mentoring, and guidance.
  • Ensure the comfort, safety, and personal growth of the individuals we serve.
  • Assist with daily living tasks such as moving around, getting in and out of bed, dressing, bathing, toileting, personal hygiene and more.
  • Perform housekeeping and laundry duties

 Why This Role:

  • Personal fulfillment, a meaningful career, and the chance to make a difference.
  • Positively impact someone’s life. 
  • Gain health care experience to further your career.
  • Reliable work schedule.
  • Varied day-to-day experiences; no two days are the same.
Qualifications

What Makes You A Great Fit: 

  • Person-centered, patient, and kind
  • Dependable, adaptable, flexible
  • Observant and detail oriented
  • Positive role-model for others and able to work on a team
  • Committed to creating a respectful and collaborative environment
  • Computer skills for documentation
  • 18 years or older
  • A successful background clearance is required as part of the onboarding/employment process 
  • Good communication is key in this role. You’ll rely on your reading, writing, and communication skills to document care, follow support plans, and collaborate with both internal and external team members. 

Additional Information

We believe in supporting not only those we serve but also each other, ensuring a collaborative and supportive work environment for all. Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law.

Keywords: #readytowork, caregiver, direct care, DSP, direct support, development disabilities, residential, direct support professional, behaviors

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What Dungarvin employees say

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About Dungarvin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Mendota Heights, MN, US

Year founded

1976

Social media

Facebook

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