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Developmental Disability Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Conducting forensic interviews of minor victims and witnesses, as well adult victims and witnesses who suffer from cognitive or developmental disability, or from severe trauma; * Demonstrating skills ...

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Developmental Disability information

See Hawaii salary details

$36.4K

$54.9K

$87.3K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Hawaii is $54,947.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,800.00 and $57,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 popular job titles related to Developmental Disability jobs in Hawaii? For Developmental Disability jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Hawaii look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Hawaii are:
What cities in Hawaii are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities in Hawaii with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Hawaii as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,947 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Developmental Disabilities Program Supervisor

Full Life

Kailua Kona, HI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live meaningful, independent lives, while being supported by a team that truly cares.

For over 20 years, Full Life has been championing inclusion, independence, and growth for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Based on Hawaii Island, we offer a welcoming, supportive work environment where both participants and staff are set up to thrive.


Developmental Disabilities Program Supervisor Role:

Our admin team is seeking a Developmental Disabilities Program Supervisor to join the team! As a Developmental Disabilities Program Supervisor, you'll be at the helm, supervising an amazing team of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who provide services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The ideal candidate will have experience overseeing services and supports for individuals with IDD/DD through their Individual Support Plans (ISPs). In this role, you will work closely with a diverse team to ensure that staff and participants receive high-quality services. This includes working with clinical and participant support teams, overseeing support across multiple island locations, and ensuring compliance through quality assurance activities.


Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Management
  • Oversee support services and ensure compliance with federal, state, and agency regulations.

  • Participate in intake and discharge processes.

  • Attend participant meetings and monitor documentation.

  • Address concerns and ensure quality person-centered planning.

  • Meet with new participants and their support circles to review paperwork and complete required documentation.

  • Ensure services reflect each individual's rights, needs, and preferences.

Networking & Community Resource Development
  • Educate community partners, civic agencies, service providers, and vendors about program goals and services.

  • Engage in community networking to enhance participant inclusion and visibility.

  • Act as a liaison between participant representatives, providers, case managers, families, and internal departments.

  • Promote dignity, value, and respect for all participants.

Staff Supervision, Training & Development
  • Interview, hire, and match DSPs with participants.

  • Ensure thorough training and ongoing staff development in accordance with state, federal, and internal requirements.

  • Conduct supervision visits and performance evaluations.

  • Prepare program staff for internal and external audits.

  • Motivate staff, foster a collaborative environment, and support career growth.

Quality Assurance & Auditing
  • Ensure documentation meets regulatory and internal standards.

  • Review records for accuracy, monitor daily services, and manage a digital database system.

  • Provide ongoing training and updates for recordkeeping tools and systems.


Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited school required (degree in a related field preferred).

  • If the degree is outside of human services or education, one year of experience working with individuals with disabilities is required.

  • Current TB clearance (or willingness to obtain before start).

  • Current CPR & First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain before start).

  • No history of abuse, neglect, theft, or other disqualifying convictions.

  • Must pass a drug test and a criminal background check.

  • Valid state-issued driver's license and automobile insurance.


Benefits

At Full Life, we believe in empowering our team to thrive. We offer comprehensive benefits to support your well-being and professional development:

  • Full-time, salaried position based in Kailua-Kona | Starting at $50,000 - $60,000 per year DOE

  • $1,000 sign-on bonus.
  • Schedule: Office hours are Monday - Friday 8am - 4pm. Position schedule can be flexible based on client and team needs

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) for full-time employees

  • 3% 401(k) match after 90 days of employment

  • Health insurance or $200 monthly health stipend (if covered elsewhere)

  • Cell phone stipend

  • Mileage reimbursement

  • Student loan repayment assistance ($50/month)

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care

  • Bonuses are given when organizational goals are met

  • Regular team-building activities with the Full Life 'Ohana

  • Ongoing career and mentorship opportunities

  • Incentives for completing and maintaining training requirements


If you're interested in this opportunity, we encourage you to submit your application today!
To expedite the process, please call our Kona office at (808) 322-9333 after submitting your application to discuss the next steps.


We look forward to meeting you!


Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
Full Life is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Full Life is committed to complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities during the application process, interviews, and throughout employment. If you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at aj@fulllifehawaii.org, and we will work with you to ensure that your needs are met.