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Direct Support Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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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Direct Support information

See Kentucky salary details

$8

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How much do direct support jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct support 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, also known as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), are individuals who assist people with disabilities or special needs in their daily lives. They help clients with tasks such as personal care, medication management, transportation, and participation in community activities. DSPs play a vital role in promoting independence, dignity, and quality of life for the individuals they support. Their work may take place in group homes, private residences, or community settings.

What are some common challenges direct support professionals face when supporting clients, and how can they be addressed?

Direct Support Professionals often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, managing behavioral issues, and adapting to each client's unique needs. Addressing these challenges involves ongoing training, strong teamwork, and utilizing person-centered approaches to build trust and rapport with clients. Regular communication with supervisors and colleagues also helps in finding effective strategies and sharing best practices for delivering high-quality support.

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 knowledge of personal care, client safety, and basic health support, often backed by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with care documentation systems and first aid/CPR certification is commonly required. Patience, empathy, and strong communication are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting clients with diverse needs. These abilities are essential for ensuring client well-being, promoting independence, and maintaining a safe, supportive environment.

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

AspectDirect SupportPersonal Care Assistant
CertificationsOften requires specialized training or certifications in disability supportMay require basic caregiving or health-related certifications
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with disabilities in homes, community settings, or facilitiesProvides personal care in private homes, healthcare facilities, or assisted living
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by disability agencies, non-profits, or government programsHired by families, healthcare agencies, or assisted living facilities
Job FocusAssisting with daily living, community integration, and advocacyAssisting with personal hygiene, mobility, and daily routines

While both roles involve providing personal assistance, Direct Support typically encompasses a broader scope of supporting individuals with disabilities in various aspects of life, including advocacy and community engagement. Personal Care Assistants mainly focus on personal hygiene and daily living tasks. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Support jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Direct Support jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Direct Support jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Direct Support job openings:

Direct Support jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Support 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 $29,418 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Direct Support Professional

Marpe Contractors

Bowling Green, KY • On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description:

OVERVIEW

Community Living Supports (CLS) shall be provided to facilitate independence and promote integration into the community for a participant residing in his or her own home or in his or her family’s home. Community Living Supports shall consist of supports and assistance that are directly related to outcomes identified in the participant’s Person-Centered Service Plan and shall not be diversional in nature.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  1. Support: Providing prompts and assistance to Participants to ensure that their goals and objectives are being worked on.


OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

  • A clear state police criminal record check is required for any state in which the person has resided in the past year. If any prior convictions for offenses outlined in KRS Chapter 17.165 (1)-(3) or a prior felony conviction, contractor opportunities will not be offered. Additionally, annual background checks may be required.
  • Complete a Five (5) panel drug screen.
  • Complete a Tuberculosis (TB) skin test. Annual tests are required.
  • Required credentials and certifications contractors must maintain at contractor’s own expense unless otherwise agreed including:
  • Crisis Prevention and Intervention, HIPAA, Emergency Disaster Preparedness, CDS Phase I and Phase II Training
  • CPR/First Aid certification
  • Maintain valid driver’s license and vehicle insurance
  • Embrace and commit to the mission and values of a VersiCare Group Company.


SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

  • No supervisory responsibilities.


Requirements:

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Primary activities are conducted in a home, community, or facility setting. Some activities may also take place outdoors and be subject to natural weather conditions.
  • Ability to sit for extended periods of time and possess the normal range of body motion.
  • Manual dexterity for handling documentation and technology.


EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

  • Be at least eighteen (18) years of age
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED

or

  • Be at least twenty-one (21) years of age
  • And able to communicate with the participant in a manner that the participant, the participant’s legal representative, or family member can understand.
  • Two years of direct service experience with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
  • Meets all personnel and established training requirements.


KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL

  • Demonstrates proficiency and knowledge in supporting participants safely, adhering to their individualized person-centered care plans.
  • Displays strong communication and interpersonal skills, encompassing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management.
  • Utilizes discernment and critical thinking to resolve discrepancies and problems, exercising sound judgment and involving appropriate parties in decision-making.
  • Possesses understanding of general business and office terminology, as well as basic knowledge of company policies, procedures, and laws.
  • Demonstrates intermediate proficiency in MS Office Suite products/programs, including the ability to compose routine correspondence and reports.
  • Handles unique situations professionally.
  • Exhibits strong planning, organizing, delegating and prioritizing abilities, with a focus on efficiency and multitasking.