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Developmental Disability Nurse Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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The Farmer's House is seeking an experienced Director of Medicaid Programs in the Kansas City Metro area to oversee developmental disability services for over 70 adults. This full-time exempt ...

Fresh Winds is a provider agency providing support for individuals with developmental disabilities ... We are looking for a qualified and caring person to work as a Registered Nurse (RN) who would be ...

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Developmental Disability Nurse information

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How much do developmental disability nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental disability nurse in Missouri is $36.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.74 and $40.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a developmental disability nurse?

A Developmental Disability Nurse (DDN) is a specialized nurse who provides care for individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other cognitive or physical impairments. They work in various settings, including group homes, schools, clinics, and private residences, assisting patients with daily living activities, medical treatments, and emotional support. Their role includes assessing health needs, administering medications, coordinating care plans, and educating families and caregivers about managing disabilities. DDNs advocate for their patients' well-being, promoting independence and improving their quality of life. This nursing specialty requires patience, compassion, and strong communication skills to address the unique challenges of each individual.

What are some common challenges faced by developmental disability nurses, and how are they addressed on the job?

Developmental Disability Nurses often encounter challenges such as managing complex behavioral needs, ensuring effective communication with non-verbal patients, and adapting care plans to suit individual abilities. To address these, nurses work closely with interdisciplinary teams that may include therapists, social workers, and family members, utilizing strategies such as behavior support plans and adaptive communication tools. Ongoing training, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and access to resources like crisis intervention protocols help nurses navigate these situations successfully. The supportive teamwork and structured processes in most settings ensure both patient safety and job satisfaction for nurses in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a developmental disability nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Developmental Disability Nurse, you need specialized nursing knowledge in developmental disabilities, state licensure (RN or LPN), and experience in individualized care planning. Familiarity with assistive communication devices, documentation using electronic health records (EHRs), and protocols for behavioral or crisis intervention is often required. Compassion, patience, strong advocacy skills, and the ability to build trust quickly are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for providing effective, empathetic care and supporting individuals and families in diverse, challenging situations.

What are popular job titles related to Developmental Disability Nurse jobs in Missouri?

For Developmental Disability Nurse jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability Nurse jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability Nurse jobs in Missouri are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Developmental Disability Nurse jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Developmental Disability Nurse job openings:

Infographic showing various Developmental Disability Nurse job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,342 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Developmental Disability Program Manager

Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri

Cape Girardeau, MO โ€ข On-site

$46K - $49K/yr

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description
Why You'll Love This Position:
We are seeking a motivated and personable Program Manager to lead and oversee an interdisciplinary team within our developmental disability program. You will play a key role in supervising, assigning, and evaluating the work of staff while ensuring the delivery of high-quality, person-centered services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Collaboration with team members, contracted providers, and community organizations is essential for ensuring effective systems and compliance with all organizational, state, and federal standards. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional leadership, initiative, and judgment in carrying out responsibilities while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. If you are passionate about making a difference and committed to empowering individuals and teams, we encourage you to apply!
What You'll Do:
  • Plans, coordinates, and supervises the work of an inter-disciplinary service coordination (case management) and/or Quality Assurance; assigns cases and evaluates the work of the service coordinator (case management) and/or Quality Assurance members.
  • As needed, manage a selected caseload of clients with intellectual disabilities/ developmental disabilities in placement or natural homes.
  • Prepares periodic reports and maintains accurate records.
  • Directs or assists in the general management of policy development, program planning, coordination, and evaluation of policies, organizational changes, and new programs.
  • Works closely with contracted providers, other managers, and team members to develop delivery systems for optimum services for individuals in the program.
  • Participates in developing budget requests; monitors expenditures according to budget allocations/appropriations; recommends and/or initiates cost-saving measures.
  • Participates in conferences, training sessions, and meetings.
  • Represents and/or serves as liaison for the assigned area of responsibility; cooperates with and addresses federal, state, local, and community organizations and other groups on the assigned programs.
  • Directs the utilization of physical facilities, equipment, furniture, and supplies.
  • Exercises considerable initiative and judgment in planning and carrying out assignments; receives general administrative direction; work is reviewed through conferences, reports, and evaluation of operational results.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Provides supervision by monitoring the development and implementation of person-centered (support plans) and the associate assessment program.
  • Supervises program support coordinators (case managers) as they work with the person-centered planning process (individual support plan) and assess support needs.
  • Evaluate services that are purchased and provided by Support Coordinators.
  • Selects, trains, supervises, and evaluates staff.
  • Monitors and ensures that all staff are meeting minimum service hour standards and compliance with all Catholic Charities, state and federal regulations, and policies.

Catholic Social Teachings
Possesses a strong commitment to the mission of Catholic Charities, including the understanding of Catholic Social Teaching and the ability to demonstrate the philosophy and values of the agency. The identity of the agency is clearly Catholic, and as such, Catholic Charities adheres to the social and moral teachings of the Catholic Church.
Requirements
All you need for success:
Minimum Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) or equivalent human services degree; OR
  • Registered nurse (licensed)
  • This position requires a valid driver's license, a reliable vehicle, and proof of insurance.

Preferred:
  • Master's degree in related field.
  • Minimum two years of experience in the social service field.
  • Supervisory experience.

If you have questions about this position, please contact:
Human Resources, hr@ccsomo.org, or 417-368-0914
www.ccsomo.org/careers/
Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.