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Developmental Disabilities Professional Jobs in Tennessee

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Developmental Disabilities Professional information

What is a developmental disabilities professional?

Developmental Disabilities Professionals (DDPs) are specialists who provide support, coordination, and oversight for individuals with developmental disabilities. They assess needs, develop care plans, and ensure that services and supports meet regulatory and individual requirements. DDPs often work in settings such as group homes, community agencies, or state programs, advocating for client rights and facilitating access to necessary resources. Their role is vital in promoting independence and improving the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a developmental disabilities professional?

To thrive as a Developmental Disabilities Professional, you need a solid background in psychology, social work, or a related field—often requiring a relevant degree and state-specific certification or licensure. Familiarity with individualized support plans (ISPs), case management software, and compliance documentation systems is typically necessary. Strong advocacy, interpersonal communication, and problem-solving skills help build trust and effectively support individuals with developmental disabilities. These skills are crucial to ensure person-centered care, regulatory compliance, and improved outcomes for clients.

What challenges does a developmental disabilities professional face when supporting individuals with diverse needs?

Developmental Disabilities Professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing individualized care plans with limited resources, navigating complex family dynamics, and ensuring effective communication with multidisciplinary teams. Managing paperwork and compliance requirements alongside direct support duties can also be demanding. However, these challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training, collaboration with colleagues, and strong organizational support, which help professionals provide the best possible care while maintaining work-life balance.

What is the difference between Developmental Disabilities Professional vs Behavior Analyst?

AspectDevelopmental Disabilities ProfessionalBehavior Analyst
CredentialsVaries; often requires a degree in social work, psychology, or related fieldBoard Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity agencies, schools, residential facilitiesClinical settings, schools, private practice
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government programs, healthcare providersHealthcare, education, private consulting

While both roles support individuals with developmental disabilities, a Developmental Disabilities Professional provides broader support and coordination, whereas a Behavior Analyst specializes in designing and implementing behavior intervention plans based on behavioral analysis principles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Developmental Disabilities jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Developmental Disabilities jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Developmental Disabilities Professional jobs in Tennessee?

For Developmental Disabilities Professional jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Developmental Disabilities Professional jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Developmental Disabilities Professional jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Developmental Disabilities Professional jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Developmental Disabilities Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Developmental Disabilities Professional job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Senior Direct Support Professional

Community Options, Inc.

Cookeville, TN • On-site

$16.68/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Community Options rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 242 rated social care providers


Job description

Description

Community Options, Inc. is a national non-profit agency providing services to individuals with disabilities in 12 states.
We are now hiring a Full-Time Senior Direct Support Professional in Cookeville, TN. The Senior Direct Support Professional (DSP) is responsible for providing person-centered care tailored to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This person will also support a team with day-to-day operations and challenges as a team leader for an assigned location.
Starting pay is $16.68 per/hour
Responsibilities 
  • Provide direct care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities tailored to their Individual Support Plan (ISP)/Person Centered Plan (PCP)
  • Assist with training team members to support programmatic initiatives, goals, daily routines, and the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Assist with daily routines including cleaning, cooking established meal plans, feeding, medication administration, and maintaining personal hygiene
  • Monitor the health and medical needs of individuals and immediately report any concerns
  • Ensure program documentation and billable records are completed accurately and timely
  • Participate with individuals in community, social, and recreational activities
  • Ensure work locations and vehicles are clean, well maintained, and stocked with necessary supplies including groceries, medications, and cleaning supplies
  • Additional tasks and responsibilities may be assigned
  • Employee must cooperate with the license and department staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation
Minimum Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Complete all state and agency required training per state guidelines
  • Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record
  • Experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  • Ability to establish a comfortable and supportive relationship with individuals receiving supports
  • Employment is contingent upon successful completion of checks of criminal background, central registry, child abuse registry, and drug testing
Why Community Options? 
  • Competitive Insurance Options (Medical, Dental, Vision).
  • Paid Holidays—Including a Birthday Holiday!
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO).
  • Employee Incentive & Discount Programs.
  • 403b Retirement Plan.
  • Exceptional Career Growth Opportunities.
  • Great coworkers/team that support you!
  • University partnerships that include tuition reduction
 
Please Visit Our Website to Complete an Online Application!    Careers.comop.org 
Community Options is an Equal Opportunity Employer   M/F/D/V 

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