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Developmental Disability Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Occupational Therapist

Chandler, AZ

$41 - $54/hr

We provide person-centered therapy and support services to individuals with developmental disabilities across Arizona. Our mission is to promote independence, inclusion, and quality of life through ...

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Developmental Disability information

See Arizona salary details

$32.6K

$49.3K

$78.3K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Arizona is $49,285.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $51,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Developmental Disability jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Developmental Disability jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Developmental Disability jobs in Arizona? For Developmental Disability jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Arizona as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 59% Full Time, and 37% Part Time. Highlights an 70% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,285 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Adult Developmental Home OR Child Developmental Home Provider

AJ's Safe Place Residential Group Home

Phoenix, AZ

$17 - $20.75/hr

Contractor

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in contracting as a vender through Aj's Safe Place as an Adult/Child Developmental Home Provider (ADH/CDH).

An Adult Developmental Home provides support to an adult with developmental disabilities who cannot live with his or her own family. These adults are placed by the Arizona Department of Economic Security's Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) along with strong family involvement to ensure that the adult is receiving the specialized care he or she needs. Adults placed by DDD are usually long term because there is typically a need for a permanent home. The Adult Developmental Home program specifically places adults, ages 18 and older that have been diagnosed with a developmental disability. These developmental disabilities include: Intellectual Disabilities, Cerebral Palsy, Autism and Epilepsy. An Adult Developmental Home may provide support for up to three adults that have a developmental disability.


A Child Developmental Home provides parenting to a child with developmental disabilities who cannot live with his or her own family. These children are placed by the Arizona Department of Economic Security's Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). Children placed by DDD can be temporary or long term. The case plan for many of these children is reunification with their biological family or adoption. The Child Developmental Home program specifically places children, ages 0 to 18 years of age that have been diagnosed with a developmental disability. These developmental disabilities include: Intellectual Disabilities, Cerebral Palsy, Autism and Epilepsy. A Child Developmental Home Provider may provide support for up to three children that have a developmental disability.


Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, pass a prescreening, complete Developmental Home Provider course work listed below.

We offer equal opportunities to all vendor applicants on the basis of demonstrated ability, experience and training. We take pride in supplying the highest quality direct care providers in the State of Arizona. We are contracted with the State of Arizona and most of our requirements are based on their mandates for being a certified provider. Below is a list of trainings that you must take in order to become certified in the State of Arizona through Aj's Safe Place. If you already have some of these items please provide a copy of the certificates upon request. Again thank you for your interest!


This is a list of trainings that you must take to become an ADH Provider. (Adult: 18-99)
*ADH Orientation to Aj's Safe Place (2 units)
*CPR & Bloodborne Pathogens (4 Units)
*First Aid & Assisting with Medication Administration (4 Units)
*ADH Training

*Cultural Competency (2.5 units)
*Incident Reporting (2 units)
*Article 9 (4 Units)
*Exploring Developmental Disabilities (2.5)
*Habilitation (2 Units)

After you are licensed, you are required to complete10 hours of Continuing Education each yearin order to renew your license.
In consideration of your application for licensure, Aj's Safe Place, and the Office of Licensing, Certification, and Regulation (OLCR) will need you to provide various types of documentation to support your qualifications.
Proof of Income (one of these)
-Pay Stubs -W2-Tax Returns-1099 Form (self-employed)
Proof of Homeowners/Renters Insurance
-Declarations page

Criminal History Declaration (Aj's Safe Place will provide this form)
-Level One AZ Department of Public Safety FingerprintClearance Card
-Criminal Self-Disclosure Declaration
Transportation
-Valid Driver's License (State, License Number, Expiration Date, Restrictions)
-Liability Insurance (Company Name, Coverage Expiration Date)
-Vehicle Registration (Car Year, Make, Model, Vehicle Identification Number, Expiration Date)

Reference (Aj's Safe Place will provide reference forms)
-3 Character References from people who are familiar with you and your family, but who are not related
-1 Employment Reference if you are currently working, or have worked, with children or adults with developmental disabilities.
-School References if you have school aged children (5-17)
Children's Immunizations
-Immunization Records
-Statement of affiliation with a religion which is opposed to immunizations
-Statement of applicant opposition to such immunizations

Physician's Statement
-Physician's Statement (Aj's Safe Place will provide form)
-Health Self Disclosure (Aj's Safe Place will provide form)
Emergency Evacuation Plan
-Emergency Evacuation Plan
We are looking forward to meeting and getting to know you and your family. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Aimie Ayiyi at (602) 570-2306 or AOwens@ajssafeplae.com.
Thank you for taking an interest in our members and making them a part of your family.
Dog Rabies Vaccinations
-Rabies Vaccination Verification (Breed of dog and vaccination expiration date)
-Pet coverage must be listed on Insurance Declarations page specific to breed