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Developmental Disability Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Easter Seals TN

Compliance Coordinator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$14.50/hr

... developmental disability is preferred Experience working with the DDA or MCO systems is preferred Ability to spend majority of the day working at a computer Requirements:

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Developmental Disability information

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$31.8K

$48K

$76.2K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 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.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,001 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Community Resource Specialist (Aging & Disability)

GNRC

Nashville, TN

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

The Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) is seeking a full-time Community Resource Specialist to serve as a counselor in the Information and Assistance Program of its Department of Aging and Disability Services.The Department's responsibilities include 1) planning and coordination of state/federal investments into programs and services aimed at improving quality of life for senior adults across the region, 2) coordinating services among a network of senior centers and providers, 3) providing counseling/ assessments to help Middle Tennesseans enroll in programs and services, and 4) monitoring the performance of grant-funded programs to ensure compliance with state and federal requirements.

GNRC's Information and Assistance (I&A) Program serves as an initial point of entry for older adults and their caregivers who are interested in learning more about eligibility for long-term care services or other programs that can help maintain quality of life for aging adults. The primary responsibilities of the Community Resource Specialist include:

  • Help inform older adults or caretaker about programs and services available to assist with long-term care, transportation, nutrition, or other needs,
  • Conduct telephone screenings and follow-up calls to assess consumer's needs and eligibility for available in-home or community-based programs and services,
  • Provide information counseling and referrals by telephone to help consumers navigate to the appropriate service or program,
  • Keep informed on aging and disability related issues and gather information about available resources and local service providers,
  • Act as client advocate by assisting clients to appropriate resources,
  • Document consumer information collected from interactions and counseling sessions within the appropriate systems,
  • Other duties as assigned by the I&A Program Manager or the Director of Aging and Disability Services.

Qualifications:The ideal candidate would have a Bachelor's degree in social work or related field with two years of relevant experience. Other requirements include excellent communication skills with experience conducting phone interviews or counseling, proficiency with MS Office, and the ability to work both independently and within a team setting. Bilingual language skills is a plus. Foreign degrees and credentials will be considered.


Required Technology Skills:Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat is required.


Remote Work Flexibility:This is not a remote position. The selected candidate will expected to work onsite on core business days. Work from home flexibility is provided when possible at the discretion of the Manager.


Compensation and Benefits: The starting pay rate will be between $25-27 per hour. GNRC offers a fully paid pension through the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System and provides an optional 401k with dollar for dollar match of up to 3% of gross salary. GNRC also offers Health, Dental and Vision plans. Inquire for more information about benefits.

GNRC is the regional council of governments for Nashville and surrounding counties and serves as one of nine regional economic development districts established by the Tennessee General Assembly in 1965. GNRC also serves as the region's state/federally-designated Area Agency on Aging & Disability (AAAD), working in close partnership with the TN Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD) and TennCare.More information is available atGNRC.organdTN.gov/Aging.


Position open until filled.

GNRC is an EOE, AA Employer

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