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Developmental Disability Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

GOLDEN YEARS LLC

Family Model Provider

Nashville, TN · On-site

$50 - $195/day

Training & development About Golden Years Golden Years provides supports and services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Tennessee. We offer Supported Living and Family ...

Caregiver Inc.

LPN

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$25/hr

Hours as Needed The Clinical LPN provides on-site nursing and attendant care to adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities residing in a residential home/treatment center in accordance ...

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All JobsDevelopmental Disability JobsDevelopmental Disability Jobs in Tennessee

Developmental Disability information

See Tennessee salary details

$31.8K

$48K

$76.2K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Tennessee is $48,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $50,400.00 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 Tennessee? For Developmental Disability jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Developmental Disability jobs near you
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 47% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,001 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Developmental Therapist

Developmental Therapist

West Tennessee Healthcare

Jackson, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

West Tennessee Healthcare rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

713th of 876 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Category:
Rehab/Therapy
City:
Jackson
State:
Tennessee
Shift:
8 - Day (United States of America)
Job Description Summary:
Responsible for providing developmentally appropriate educational services for developmentally delayed children ages birth to five in a home or community setting. Under the general direction of the Program Manager and Director of the Therapy & Learning Center. Employee is subject to call back and overtime as required by the hospital.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Responsible for assisting and collaboration with TEIS in the development of the IFSP.
  • Develop lesson plans for each child assigned and uses creativity in implementing appropriate activities with the children and families.
  • Responsible for the timely and accurate documentation of activities conducted with child and family including completion of monthly summaries, monthly caseload reports, requesting medical and other education records/assessments when needed, and maintaining the child's program file in an orderly and organized manner.
  • Assures that IFSP's are appropriate in relation to the child's developmental abilities and needs. Recommends changes to IFSP to TEIS as needed.
  • Compiles and reviews all programming documentation and written reports for children on caseload.
  • Upon request from TEIS, completes appropriate developmental assessments every six months and hearing and vision screenings annually.
  • Completes documentation in the contact log and service log in the TEIDS system in compliance with TEIS required timeframes.
  • Keeps evaluation/assessments, lesson plans, monthly summaries, and exit up to date and reports filed in the child's bluebook.
  • Adheres to and implements licensing requirements set forth by the Department of Disabilities and Aging.
  • Responsible for utilizing the appropriate curriculum depending upon the needs of the child and family. Plans for general activities that parents, siblings, extended family, etc. can incorporate into daily life that will aide in the child's overall development.
  • Works cooperatively with TEIS service coordinators to ensure service delivery is appropriate.
  • Works with therapists in order to carry over recommendations as appropriate.
  • Participates in annual program evaluation and provides appropriate statistical information regarding children's progress.
  • Provides feedback to the Program Manager regarding program needs.
  • Works cooperatively with all consultant and representatives from other agencies.
  • Completes 30 hours of annual training as required by Department of Disability and Aging.
  • Attends all staff conferences, intra-agency sessions, in-service training and such other conferences and meetings as deemed appropriate by the Program Coordinator.
  • Keeps up with current readings in the area of preschool education, including those pertaining to the teacher's role in working with families or handicapped children.
  • Informs the Program Manager of enrollment situations including all proposed exits or transfers and concerns regarding children on their caseload.
  • Develops and maintains a positive work climate and the overall team effort of the department (or work unit).
  • When applicable, ensures satellite is being clean, supplies are available, and that equipment is in good repair.
  • Adheres to fire marshal recommendations (satellite).
  • Performs related responsibilities as required or directed.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION:
  • B.S or B.A and/or masters and/or doctorate degree in early childhood special education, early childhood education, child and family studies (child development), early intervention, deaf education or visual disabilities, special education K-12, elementary education, communication disorders, speech language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and/or related field. Related field can include but is not limited to the following: degree in social work, nursing, psychology, education administration, or sociology.

LICENSURE, REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION:
  • Basic Life Support and First Aid certification required within 30 days of hire.
  • Valid driver's license.

EXPERIENCE:
  • 1-year experience in the field of Special Education, Communication Disorders, Education Pre - K through 3 certified, Family/Consumer Sciences or Early Childhood Education preferred.
  • Related field degrees require a minimum of one year documented experience working with children with disabilities 0-5 years of age and their families.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Basic knowledge of education concepts and strategies/methods required.
  • Knowledge of developmental process and diagnoses such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, speech/language disorders, etc. is preferred.

NONDISCRIMINATION NOTICE STATEMENT
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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