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Developmental Center Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Activity Aide

Bellwood, IL · On-site

$15.45/hr

SUMMARY: The primary purpose of this job position is to assist in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of recreational, social, intellectual, emotional and spiritual programs, in accordance ...

PHYSICIAN

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$157K - $214K/yr

Position Overview The Division of Developmental Disabilities is seeking to hire a Physician for the Kiley Developmental Center located in Waukegan, Illinois to serve as an Illinois Licensed Physician ...

PHYSICIAN

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$157K - $214K/yr

Position Overview The Division of Developmental Disabilities is seeking to hire a Physician for the Kiley Developmental Center located in Waukegan, Illinois to serve as an Illinois Licensed Physician ...

PHYSICIAN

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$157K - $214K/yr

Position Overview The Division of Developmental Disabilities is seeking to hire a Physician for the Kiley Developmental Center located in Waukegan, Illinois to serve as an Illinois Licensed Physician ...

PSYCHOLOGIST II (UMP)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$81K - $118K/yr

Position Overview The Division of Developmental Disabilities is seeking to hire a Psychologist II for the Kiley Developmental Center located in Waukegan, Illinois to conduct professional ...

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Developmental Center information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$21

$36

How much do developmental center jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental center in Chicago, IL is $21.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.31 and $30.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Developmental Center vs Behavior Therapist?

AspectDevelopmental CenterBehavior Therapist
CredentialsVaries; often requires degrees in psychology, social work, or related fieldsTypically requires certification in behavior analysis (e.g., BCBA) or related credentials
Work EnvironmentSpecialized facilities serving individuals with developmental disabilitiesClinical or community settings providing behavioral interventions
Employer & IndustryPublic and private agencies focused on developmental disabilitiesHealthcare, educational, or private practice settings

Developmental Centers and Behavior Therapists both serve individuals with developmental challenges, but Developmental Centers are often larger facilities offering comprehensive services, while Behavior Therapists focus on implementing specific behavioral interventions. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Developmental Center professional?

To thrive as a professional in a Developmental Center, you typically need a background in psychology, social work, education, or a related field, often with relevant certifications or licensure. Familiarity with assessment tools, individualized education plans (IEPs), and case management software is commonly required. Compassion, patience, and strong communication skills are crucial for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and collaborating with their families and interdisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure effective care delivery, promote client development, and foster a supportive environment for both clients and staff.

What are some common challenges employees face when working in a Developmental Center, and how can they be managed?

Employees at a Developmental Center often work with individuals who have complex needs, which can present emotional and behavioral challenges. Staff may encounter situations requiring patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. Managing these challenges involves ongoing training, teamwork, and utilizing support resources such as supervisors and mental health professionals. Building strong relationships with colleagues and participating in regular debriefings can also help staff maintain resilience and provide high-quality care.

What is a Developmental Center?

A Developmental Center is a specialized facility that provides assessment, treatment, and support services for individuals—often children or adults—with developmental disabilities or delays. These centers typically offer multidisciplinary care, including therapies, educational programs, and family support, aimed at helping individuals reach their full potential. Developmental Centers may be operated by state agencies, hospitals, or private organizations, and can serve as both residential and outpatient treatment locations. Their staff often include psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and special educators. The goal is to improve quality of life and promote independence for clients and their families.
What job categories do people searching Developmental Center jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Center jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Developmental Center job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,645 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

DIrect Support Professional Day Program / Developmental Trainer DSP

Bellwood Developmental Center

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Bellwood Developmental Center is looking for creative & dependable Direct Support Professionals (DSP) / Developmental Trainers to join our dynamic, caring, progressive and close-knit team for our day training program in Berkeley, Illinois.  Come be a part of our community day center program as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) Monday-Friday day hours!

Retention and referral bonuses available for Direct Support Professionals!

If you like to help adults with intellectual disabilities enjoy a full life, look no further! Bellwood Developmental Center is looking for Direct Support Professionals to join our mission in providing caring support to the individuals we serve. It is life changing work as we strive to be a leader in quality services.

In this Direct Support Professional (DSP) position you will:

  • Have opportunities to be creative and provide a positive influence
  • Be an integral part of an inter-disciplinary team and directly impact the individual's quality of life
  • Be a part of a collaborative process and enrich the lives of the individuals in creative ways
  • Teach, train and develop daily living skills and life activities to achieve success with the people we serve
  • Assist with community integration
  • Provide quality services and care to the people we support

Position Requirements:

  • Desire to make a positive difference in people's lives.
  • Be a team player in a collaborative environment
  • At least a High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Possess a valid driver's license
  • Be available full or part time during program days/hours (M-F, 8a-4p)
  • Meet the screening requirements for the Healthcare Worker background check
  • Work requires frequent physical activity including extended periods of standing, walking, and bending with occasional periods of sitting, kneeling, climbing, stooping, crouching, squatting and balancing.
  • Work also requires constant reaching between knee and shoulder level as well as frequent reaching below knee level and overhead.
  • Work requires occasional independent lifting up to 25 pounds, frequent push/pull up to 40 pounds of force and the ability to safely transfer 50 pounds.
  • Work requires direct care including toileting and feeding.

Benefits - DIrect Support Professional Day Program/ Developmental Trainer DSP

Bellwood Developmental Center offers the following Insurances and other benefits:

Health

Dental

Vision

401k with Employer match

Life Insurance

Disability

Vacation

Sick

Other Benefits for Direct Support Professional Day Program available.

Like positions include Caretaker, Home Health Aid, Developmental Trainer, CNA, Health care, paraprofessional, Teacher's aide