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Developmental Disability Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Developmental Disability information

See Virginia salary details

$34.7K

$52.4K

$83.3K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Virginia is $52,433.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,600.00 and $55,000.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Developmental Disability jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,433 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Developmental Disability Support

Full Armor Supportive Care LLC

Fredericksburg, VA • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company parties
  • Training & development

DSP Job Description Monday-Friday 4:30 PM- 8:30 PM
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) will play a vital and positive role in helping our clients with intellectual, cognitive, or developmental disabilities achieve their fullest potential.
Reports to: Program Manager
Description:
• Perform personal care tasks, including assistance with basic personal hygiene and grooming, feeding, and ambulation, medical monitoring, and health care related tasks. Fostering positive relationships between individuals served and their housemates
• Ensure client safety and maintain a safe environment 
• Assist with toileting, including bedpans, urinals, and commode chairs 
• Remind/assist client with self-administration of medications (with proper training) 
• Encourage self-help activities 
• Report changes in client's condition or family situation to the office
• Document services provided 
• Perform home management functions such as light housekeeping, laundry, bed making, and cleaning 
• Plan meals, shop for groceries, prepare and serve food/meals, feed and clean-up 
• Accompany clients to scheduled appointments
• Transport clients or run errands for clients
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Knowledge of developmental disabilities and mental illness and related problems; good knowledge and skills needed for community living; interpersonal skills, to include the ability to empathize and demonstrate respect and patience
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; write routine reports and correspondence; speak effectively and professionally with visitors, staff, clients, outside sources at all times; communicate in English; ability to take and give direction (from administrative staff only) and comply with minimal supervision
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists; ability to interpret a variety of instruction furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form
• Ability to walk, sit, stand, reach (shoulder height, above shoulder height and below shoulder height), pull/push (25 pounds or less, 25 to 50 pounds), carry (25 pounds or less), kneel/bend/stoop/crouch and repetitive movement.
Education:
• Must have a high school diploma or GED 
• Have at least one (1) year of direct care (preferred)
Specific Requirements: 
Desired: Must be 21 or older with a valid driver license. Must submit a current copy of driving record 
All applicants must have the following requirements: 
• Must complete an application on site (prior to interview) 
• Available evenings, weekends and holidays 
• Must complete a TB test 
• Must complete a background check 
• Must be available for all scheduled training initial and annually