1

Developmental Disability Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

We are a local non-profit organization serving children & adults with developmental disabilities. We are looking to fill a Full-time, salaried position to provide case management and coordination for ...

Home Health Aide (HHA)

Ozark, AL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Staff will provide Personal Support, Respite Care, Life Skills Development (Level 1), and Companionship to clients with developmental and physical disabilities in home and community-based settings.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Developmental Disability information

See Alabama salary details

$31.7K

$47.9K

$76.1K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Alabama is $47,936.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $50,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to work with people with developmental disabilities?

Developmental disability professionals support individuals by promoting independence, implementing individualized plans, and using effective communication techniques. They often work in settings such as residential facilities, schools, or community programs, and may require training in behavior management and certifications like CPR or first aid. Building patience, empathy, and understanding of each person's unique needs is essential for effective support.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, commercial pilots, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers with experience. These positions often require specialized skills, certifications, or extensive experience, and income can vary based on performance and location.

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

Professionals working with individuals with developmental disabilities often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, behavioral issues, and the need to tailor support to each person's unique abilities. Addressing these challenges requires patience, creativity, and strong collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including therapists, educators, and family members. Building trust and using individualized strategies, such as visual aids or assistive technology, can greatly enhance both communication and overall support.

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 vocational training or certifications can help improve job prospects in different industries.

What is the difference between Developmental Disability vs Occupational Therapist?

AspectDevelopmental DisabilityOccupational Therapist
Required CredentialsVaries; often no specific certification, but may include special education or healthcare trainingMaster's degree in Occupational Therapy, state licensure, and NBCOT certification
Work EnvironmentSchools, healthcare facilities, community programsHospitals, clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers
Employer & Industry UsageSpecial education, healthcare, social servicesHealthcare, rehabilitation, educational settings
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding disabilities and support servicesTherapeutic interventions for functional improvement

Developmental Disability refers to a broad range of conditions affecting development, while an Occupational Therapist is a healthcare professional providing therapy to improve daily functioning. The two are related but serve different roles within healthcare and support services.

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

To thrive as a Developmental Disability Specialist, you need a background in psychology, social work, or special education, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and, in some cases, state licensure. Familiarity with individualized service plans (ISPs), case management software, and documentation standards is typically required. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help professionals build trust and advocate effectively for clients. These competencies ensure high-quality support, enable effective care coordination, and improve the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities.

What are developmental disabilities?

Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions that originate during the developmental period, typically before the age of 22, and cause physical, learning, language, or behavioral impairments. These disabilities can include autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, and Down syndrome, among others. They may affect daily functioning and often require lifelong support and services. The severity and type of support needed can vary greatly from person to person.

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 most 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 various settings.
What are popular job titles related to Developmental Disability jobs in Alabama? For Developmental Disability jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Alabama as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,936 per year, or $23 per hour.
Qualified Developmental Disability Professional (Talladega)

Qualified Developmental Disability Professional (Talladega)

AltaPointe Health

Talladega, AL

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


AltaPointe Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Responsibilities

Essential Functions:

  • Coordinate Individual Support Team (IST) functions and responsibilities
  • Plan and schedule meetings based on the preferences of the person receiving services regarding the time, place and persons invited to attend
  • Assist people to lead their meetings consistent with their preferences and abilities
  • Actively engage people to increase their participation in all aspects of their programing
  • Develop individual program plans based Personal Outcome Measures (POM) interviews, team members' feedback and completion of required assessments to determine the person's individual needs, goals and desires
  • Review the effectiveness of people's individual program plans and services. Make timely modifications as needed
  • Serve as designated contact for people within assigned caseload, their parents, guardians and authorized representatives
  • Maintain documentation of people's needs for supervision and support
  • Assure people have annual physical exams and recommendations are implemented to assure best possible health 
  • Assure people's face sheets and contact information are up to date and accurate
  • Assure that people taking psychotropic medications have psychotropic medication monitoring plans and that plans are reviewed periodically as required by DMH standards
  • Assure that behavior plans, if applicable, are implemented and monitored as indicated in the plan and by DMH standards
  • Responsible for training program staff in implementation of people's program plans
  • Identify and secure community opportunities that support people's identified interests
  • Ensure safety and community acceptance of people
  • Oversee the development of weekly individual and group schedules with direct input from people participating in the program
  • Complete after event evaluations of day's activities with people involved to determine each person's feelings about the activity and to better plan for future events
  • Assure individual schedules are available to the people, their families or guardians, providers and support coordinators as requeste
  • Assure Program Manager is immediately notified when an activity venue cannot be accessed for any reason
  • Maintain familiarity and follow Emergency Procedures for Community Bssed Program's manual and maintain emergency information pertaining to each person receiving services
  • Report, monitor and document accidents, injuries, behavior incidents and health concerns
  • Maintain updated program file with all required documents for people in assigned caseload
  • Complete all requirements within specified timelines
  • Respect confidentiality of personal information as stated in AltaPointe policy and procedures
  • Seek supervision and consultation as needed
  • Accepts and employs suggestions for improvement
  • Actively works to enhance skills
  • Attend in-service training and professional development activities as required by DMH, AltaPointe or Division Coordinator
  • Treats individuals with care, dignity and compassion
  • Respects individual's privacy and confidentiality
  • Is pleasant and cooperative with others
  • Assist individuals and visitors as needed
  • Personal values don't inhibit ability to relate and care for others
  • Is sensitive to the individual's needs, expectations and individual differences
  • Is gentle and calm with individuals and families
  • Actively participates in Quality/Performance Improvement activities
  • Actively participates in AltaPointe committees as required
  • Completes assigned tasks in a timely manner
  • Follows AltaPointe policies and procedures
  • Any other duties as assigned by supervisor or designee
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree (BA/BS) in a human services field (Psychology, Sociology, Special Education, Social Work, or a related field), or a Registered Nurse and a minimum of one year experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is required.  Must meet Department of Mental Health guidelines for designation as a Qualified Developmental Disabilities Professional (QDDP).

Must meet all driving requirements.

Within six (6) months of employment, effectively demonstrate the application of population specific competencies:

  • Ability to interpret and implement support plans and to motivate, instruct, and supervise persons with intellectual disabilities.
  • Knowledge or psychiatric disorders and intellectual disabilities in the adult population
  • Knowledge of cultural diversity
  • Knowledge of available resources
  • Knowledge of behavior management, crisis intervention and interventions common to individuals with intellectual disabilities, as well as, to non-violent crisis intervention practice
  • Knowledge of all applicable standards (DMH, Joint Commission, Medicaid)
  • Knowledge of Person Center Planning, natural supports and the philosophy of self-determination
  • Knowledge of utilizing electronic incident reporting
Employment Type: FULL_TIME