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Direct Support Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Support information

See Kentucky salary details

$8

$14

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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:

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 (DSP) / Caregiver

Dungarvin

Lexington, KY • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Dungarvin rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 242 rated social care providers


Job description

Company Description
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!!
Wage: $15.00/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
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.
  • Perform housekeeping and laundry duties.
  • Assist with daily living tasks such as moving around, getting in and out of bed, dressing, bathing, toileting, personal hygiene and more.

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.
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Videos To Watch
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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

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