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Developmental Disability Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

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Developmental Disability information

See Massachusetts salary details

$38.2K

$57.8K

$91.7K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Massachusetts is $57,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,100.00 and $60,600.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Developmental Disability jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Developmental Disability jobs in Massachusetts are:
What are popular job titles related to Developmental Disability jobs in Massachusetts? For Developmental Disability jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Massachusetts as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,759 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Residential Counselor I | Developmental Disability Services

Gándara Center

Springfield, MA • On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Why Work for Gandara:

Explore the career pathways in Behavioral Health, Substance Use and Recovery, Community Based Clinical services, Adolescent and Family services, Adult Residential, Maintenance and Administration! Whether that is in an entry level or leadership role, Gandara will provide the tools and resources to better enhance your career growth. The opportunities are presented with the ability to transition your skills and experience in meeting the organizations mission. There is grand landscape of opportunities that supports the community we serve, so Join the Gándara team today!

Benefits:

  • Retirement Plan 403(b)
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Pet and Life Insurance
  • Paid vacations
  • Paid holidays
  • 8 discretionary days
  • Mileage Reimbursement

Salary:

  • Hourly | 21.00

Additional Benefits:

  • Career Growth Opportunities
  • Culturally Diverse population
  • Clinical Licensing Support

Job Title: Residential Counselor

Work Location: Greater Springfield Area 

*Bilingual Candidates Encouraged to Apply 

*EOE M/F/D/V

*Union/Non-Union

Job Summary:

We're looking for Full-Time, Part-time and Relief Staff Residential Counselor 1 to work with our DDS Program [Developmental Disability Services] team model, establishing open communication, support, and accountability among workers and consumers. They are accountable to the DDS Program Manager, who is responsible for providing supervision and training. The Residential Counselor 1 is one who actively promotes the philosophy of the DDS Program, and maintains a high level of commitment to the program. This individual will respect the dignity of each individual through vigorous promotion of the human and civil rights which, in part, strives to keep people free from abuse or neglect and recognize that ethnic and cultural diversity of each individual must be valued and respected.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • To attend scheduled clinical and staff meetings and actively participate to determine treatment plans, re-evaluate case needs and goals, and develop skills.
  • To maintain client records in accordance with standard format and timetables.
  • To attend scheduled supervisory meetings with Program Manager.
  • To maintain progress notes on each consumer for the shift which staff worked.
  • To represent the dignity of each individual through vigorous promotion of the human and civil rights, which, in part, strives to keep people free from abuse and/or neglect.
  • To assist members daily in the enhancement of their ADL (activities of daily living) skills through practical experience and training both individually and in groups.
  • To promote the rights of people with developmental/intellectual disabilities to exercise choice and to make meaningful decisions in their lives.
  • To provide appropriate, safe responses to emergency situations when necessary.
  • To provide case management, outreach and advocacy to members, and be accountable for the quality and quantity of casework.
  • To develop strong, supportive relationships with the individuals.
  • To provide for individual care and safety, and observe all safety measures.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Associates degree or bachelor’s degree in human service field preferred.
  • At least one year of experience working with psychiatric clients preferred.
  • Must have valid driver’s license and safe driving history.
  • Prefer bilingual (English/Spanish).
  • Must have availability of an automobile to transport individuals or perform other supportive services as necessary.

The Gándara Mental Health Center provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.