Developmental Disability Jobs in Vermont (NOW HIRING)

Overview
Are you passionate about creating safer, more supportive communities while advocating for people with developmental disabilities? The Developmental Disabilities Services Division is seeking a dynamic Public Safety Specialist to join our team and help strengthen Vermont's system of care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
In this impactful role, you'll work at the juncture of public safety, human services, and community inclusion, helping ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities who have been involved with the criminal justice system receive services that promote safety, stability, and opportunity.
As a Public Safety Specialist, you will collaborate with partners across Vermont to address complex situations and improve outcomes for individuals and communities. Your work will include:

• Partnering with case management organizations, direct service providers, law enforcement, and state agencies to review and address risk situations.
• Coordinating case consultations and cross-system collaboration for individuals with complex needs.
• Supporting crisis response planning and risk management strategies that prioritize safety and person-centered care.
• Assisting with training initiatives and policy implementation that strengthen public safety practices across the developmental disabilities system.
• Contributing to statewide approaches and innovative solutions related to complex public safety challenges.

The ideal candidate brings a strong commitment to collaboration and problem-solving, along with experience in the following areas:

• Developmental or intellectual disabilities services
• Human services or behavioral health
• Criminal justice or public safety systems

This position plays a vital role in advancing Vermont's commitment to person-centered services while balancing the safety and well-being of individuals and communities. You'll be part of innovative, cross-system work that helps ensure Vermonters with developmental disabilities have the support they need to live stable, inclusive lives.
If you're ready to apply your expertise to meaningful work that truly makes a difference, we encourage you to apply.
As of July 12, 2026, the step 1 rate for pay grade 25 will be $31.54 per hour and the step 15 rate will be $49.45 per hour.
Who May Apply
This position, Developmental Disabilities Public Safety Specialist (Job Requisition #53810), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Melanie.Feddersen@vermont.gov.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.
Environmental Factors
Duties are performed throughout the state in meetings with offenders, community officials, corrections staff, victims and victim advocates, court officials, and developmental services program staff.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors Degree & five (5) years at or above a professional level in a criminal justice setting, including correctional and victim services, and/or services for offenders with developmental disabilities.
Note: Additional work experience in a criminal justice setting or in services for offenders with developmental disabilities may be substituted for the education requirement on a six months for semester basis.
Note: Graduate coursework in criminal justice or forensic psychology or a related field may be substituted for up to two years of experience.
Special Requirements
Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.
Total Compensation
As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State's employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.