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Developmental Disabilities Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$35K

$52.9K

$84K

How much do developmental disabilities jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disabilities in the United States is $52,887.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are developmental disabilities?

Developmental disabilities are a group of chronic conditions that originate during childhood and can impact physical, learning, language, or behavioral areas. These disabilities may include autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, and Down syndrome, among others. They are usually life-long and can affect a person's ability to live independently, communicate, or perform daily activities. Early intervention, education, and support services can help individuals with developmental disabilities achieve their potential and enhance their quality of life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Developmental Disabilities Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Developmental Disabilities Specialist, you need a background in social work, psychology, or special education, often supported by a relevant degree and, in some cases, state licensure or certification. Familiarity with individualized service plans (ISPs), behavioral intervention techniques, and case management software is important for effective support. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication skills help build trust with clients and collaborate with families and multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for delivering person-centered care, promoting client independence, and ensuring positive outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities.

What is a developmental disability specialist?

A developmental disability specialist is a professional who supports individuals with developmental disabilities by developing and implementing care plans, providing therapy, and assisting with daily living skills. They often work in healthcare, educational, or community settings and may require certifications such as a behavior analyst or special education credential.

What jobs can sped people get?

Individuals with developmental disabilities can work in various roles such as retail associates, food service workers, office assistants, or custodial staff. Many employers offer accommodations and support, and certifications or training may be required depending on the job. Vocational rehabilitation services can help identify suitable employment options and provide necessary resources.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with individuals with developmental disabilities, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals supporting individuals with developmental disabilities often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, behavioral concerns, and the need to tailor interventions to each person's unique needs. Building strong rapport, using assistive technology, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams are key strategies to overcome these challenges. Continuous training, patience, and open communication with families and other caregivers also play vital roles in providing effective support and fostering a positive environment for both clients and staff.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 a week without a degree often include roles such as commercial truck drivers, sales managers, real estate brokers, and certain skilled trades like electricians or plumbers with experience. These positions typically require specialized skills, certifications, or licenses, and may involve long hours or physical work.

What are the five developmental disabilities?

Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions that begin in childhood and affect physical, learning, language, or behavior skills. The five common developmental disabilities are autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These conditions often require specialized support and intervention from professionals in the field.

What is the difference between Developmental Disabilities vs Speech-Language Pathologist?

AspectDevelopmental DisabilitiesSpeech-Language Pathologist
CredentialsVaries; often includes certifications like DDS or related degreesMaster's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, ASHA certification
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, community agencies, residential facilitiesHospitals, schools, clinics, private practices
Industry UsageFocuses on individuals with various developmental conditionsFocuses on diagnosing and treating speech and language disorders

Developmental Disabilities and Speech-Language Pathologists are related but distinct roles. Developmental Disabilities refer to a broad range of conditions affecting development, while Speech-Language Pathologists specialize in communication disorders. Both work in similar environments and may collaborate, but their credentials and primary focus differ.

More about Developmental Disabilities jobs
What cities are hiring for Developmental Disabilities jobs? Cities with the most Developmental Disabilities job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Developmental Disabilities jobs? The most popular types of Developmental Disabilities jobs are:
What states have the most Developmental Disabilities jobs? States with the most job openings for Developmental Disabilities jobs include:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disabilities job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,887 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Residential Counselor (Developmental Disabilities)

Residential Counselor (Developmental Disabilities)

Vinfen

Dorchester, MA

$22.27/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Vinfen rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

As a Residential Counselor, you will provide direct support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a small group residential setting or an individual living arrangement. In your role you will work together with the people we serve, their families, friends, employers, and other support staff to transform their lives by either building independence skills or increasing each person's quality of life.

Residential Counselors have a range of duties include administrating medication under the Medication Administration Plan (MAP), implementing treatment plans, and assisting people with activities of daily living, such as household chores and cooking. You also strengthen residents' connection to their community by providing transportation on outings such as shopping and doctor's appointments.

Keywords: social services, counseling, social work, group home, DSP, Direct Care, psychology, mentor, mental illness, mental health, disability, developmental disabilities, behavioral, rehabilitative, psychiatric, outreach worker, outreach services, human services, nonprofit, autism, crisis, trauma, advocacy, developmental disability, recovery, Direct Care, VinfenRC

RC-BOS


Why Vinfen? We are committed to you! We offer great training, great benefits, career growth and job security!

Our comprehensive and generous benefits package includes:

  • A fully funded, employer-sponsored retirement plan that requires no employee contribution as well as an employee-funded 403(b) plan
  • First-rate Medical, Dental and Vision plans that are open all employees scheduled to work 30 hours per week or more. Plus, we offer a generous employer contribution toward the cost of medical insurance!
  • Employer-paid Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment and Long-Term Disability Insurance (no cost to you!)
  • Employer-paid Short-Term Disability Insurance along with the option to purchase additional, voluntary, Short-Term disability insurance
  • Flexible Spending Reimbursement Accounts (Health and Dependent care)
  • Voluntary Term, Whole Life, Accident and Critical Care Insurance
  • Generous paid time off (Employees scheduled to work 20 hours or more per week):
    • 15 days of Vacation per year
    • 11 Paid Holidays
    • 10 Sick Days per year
    • 3 Personal Days per year
  • Educational Assistance and Remission Programs
  • $500 Employee Referral Bonus with no annual cap!
  • Other generous benefits including discounted YMCA memberships, access to discounted movie tickets and more!

About Us:

Established in 1977, Vinfen is a nonprofit, health and human services organization and a leading provider of community-based services to individuals with mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and behavioral health challenges. Our services and advocacy promote the recovery, resiliency, habilitation, and self-determination of the people we serve. Vinfen's 3,500 dedicated employees are experienced, highly-trained professionals who provide a full range of supportive living, health, educational, and clinical services in over 550 sites throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. For more information about Vinfen, please visit www.vinfen.org/careers.

My Job. My Community. My Vinfen.

Vinfen is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.


High school diploma or GED required. 
  • Experience working with people with developmental disabilities and/or brain injury strongly preferred.
  • Strong time management and writing skills.
  • All applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have a current, valid, US drivers' license for at least 6 months.
  • Must be able to become CPR, First Aid certified within 2 weeks of employment and MAP certified within 150 days of employment.
  • Must successfully complete Safety Care within 90 days
  • Must be able to successfully pass a CORI, reference, national fingerprinting and driving record check.

USD $22.27 - USD $22.27 /Hr.

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