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Developmental Disability Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Adult Case Manager

Allegan, MI · On-site

$57K - $79K/yr

As an Adult Case Manager, you will be responsible for providing opportunities for individuals with an intellectual/developmental disability, mental health, substance use, or co-occurring disorder to ...

As an Adult Case Manager, you will be responsible for providing opportunities for individuals with an intellectual/developmental disability, mental health, substance use, or co-occurring disorder to ...

PEER MENTOR

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$19.42 - $24.46/hr

Post Hire Training Requirements 1. Must attend Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council's Peer Mentor 101 training. 2. Must obtain certification as a Peer Mentor through the Michigan Developmental ...

Showing results 21-40

Developmental Disability information

See Michigan salary details

$30.5K

$46.1K

$73.2K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Michigan is $46,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $48,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Developmental Disability jobs in Michigan?

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Developmental Disability job openings:

Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,096 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Developmental Care Specialist (12 Hour, Weekends Only)

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Wedgwood Christian Services
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 201 - 500 employees

$20.50 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Developmental Care Specialist (Full-Time) | Residential Behavioral Health
VanderArk A Program | Boys Ages 12�17 | Specialized program for boys with developmental disabilities
Why Wedgwood?
Since 1960, Wedgwood Christian Services has been dedicated to boldly taking on the toughest mental health and behavioral health problems in West Michigan. We serve children, teens, families, and adults through residential care, counseling services, and community programs.
Join a Trauma-Informed Residential Treatment Team
We are seeking a Developmental Care Specialist to provide direct care within our residential behavioral health program serving adolescent boys (ages 12�17). Many of the boys in our VanderArk A Program have never experienced consistent safety or stability. As a Developmental Care Specialist, you will show up daily as a stable, caring adult � helping youth build resilience, practice emotional regulation, and envision a future beyond trauma.
In addition to supporting normal daily operations of the residential unit, you will coordinate with the Program BCBA to implement focused behavioral intervention based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). You may facilitate social interactions, as well as design and conduct exciting daily small group activities in a fun, engaging environment.
If you are passionate about behavioral health, trauma-informed residential care, ABA, youth advocacy, and therapeutic mentorship, we invite you to apply.
Schedul
  • Hours (Full-Time): Friday-Sunday, 12 hour shifts, fixed start-time between 7a-9a

Compensation:
  • $20.50 - $22.50/hour
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Generous PTO package
  • Time-and-a-half pay for hours worked on holidays
  • Employer-paid training and re-certification

What You'll Do
Working alongside our multidisciplinary treatment team, you will:
  • Implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with therapists and case managers
  • Create and maintain a safe, therapeutic environment grounded in the Sanctuary Model� (safety, emotional intelligence, open communication, and social learning)
  • Build consistent, mentoring relationships using trauma-informed and relationship-based approaches
  • Utilize verbal de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques to support behavioral regulation
  • Model and teach healthy communication, problem-solving, and daily living skills
  • Support youth in developing life skills, self-worth, and positive identity formation
  • Engage in structured recreational and skill-building activities
  • Administer medications as assigned and support physical wellness routines
  • Document and maintain accurate records in alignment with behavioral health standards
  • Transport residents to appointments, school, court, or community activities as needed

Background & Qualifications
Required:
  • At least 20 years of age
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and safely perform physical interventions when necessary
  • Alignment with Wedgwood's Statement of Faith, vision and values

Preferred Education:
  • Applied Behavioral Analysis
  • Social Work (BSW in progress or completed)
  • Psychology
  • Counseling
  • Human Services
  • Child Development
  • Criminal Justice (youth focus)
  • Addiction Studies
  • Behavioral Health or related field

Preferred Experience:
  • Residential treatment (adolescents or adults)
  • ABA Therapy (in home or center based)
  • Behavioral health or mental health settings
  • Juvenile justice or youth-serving programs
  • Crisis intervention or trauma-informed environments
  • Rehabilitation or recovery centers/shelters
  • Group homes, inpatient, or community mental health

Benefits:
  • 403(b) with employer match
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Free supplemental virtual PCP care with medical plan
  • Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employer-paid short- and long-term disability
  • Life insurance (up to 2x salary)
  • Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer
  • Pet Insurance
  • Legal Insurance
  • On-site gymnasium & 24-hour wellness center
  • Tuition discounts through community partnerships
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Beautiful on-campus walking trail

Mission: Wedgwood Christian Services extends God's love to youth, adults, and families through professional counseling and educational services.
Core Values: Integrity, Compassion, Excellence, and Diversity