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Developmental Disability Jobs in Independence, MO

Clinical Psychologist PHD

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

Overview Children's Mercy Kansas City is recruiting a psychologist with expertise in autism, developmental disabilities and associated mental health conditions to join the Autism Clinic embedded ...

Clinical Psychologist PHD

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

Overview Children's Mercy Kansas City is recruiting a psychologist with expertise in autism, developmental disabilities and associated mental health conditions to join the Autism Clinic embedded ...

Clinical Psychologist PHD

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$86K - $119K/yr

Overview Children's Mercy Kansas City is recruiting a psychologist with expertise in autism, developmental disabilities and associated mental health conditions to join the Autism Clinic embedded ...

Showing results 41-60

Developmental Disability information

See Independence, MO salary details

$31.8K

$48.1K

$76.4K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Independence, MO is $48,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,900.00 and $50,500.00 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 job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Independence, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Independence, MO are:

What cities near Independence, MO are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs?

Cities near Independence, MO with the most Developmental Disability job openings:

Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Independence, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,096 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

Center for Developmentally Disabled

Kansas City, MO

$85K - $90K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Full-Time | Onsite| Kansas City, MO
$85,000–$90,000 annually + $10,000 Stay-On Agreement + Full Benefits
Are you passionate about helping others achieve growth, independence, and meaningful outcomes? Join the Center for Developmentally Disabled (CDD) — a Kansas City nonprofit with more than 50 years of service — as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). You’ll lead positive behavioral change, mentor dedicated staff, and make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.
Why You’ll Love Working at CDD
  • Mission-Driven Work: Help individuals with developmental disabilities thrive by applying evidence-based practices in a compassionate, person-centered environment.
  • $10,000 Stay-On Agreement: Receive a generous retention bonus your first year of employment in addition to your competitive salary.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work alongside an experienced multidisciplinary team dedicated to quality care and continuous learning.
  • Professional Growth: Paid training, licensure support, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing opportunities for advancement.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with 6% match; paid holidays and PTO; flexible scheduling options.
What You’ll Do
  • Conduct Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and develop individualized Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) based on applied behavior analysis (ABA).
  • Incorporate Gentle Teaching principles to promote dignity, respect, and safe relationships.
  • Monitor client progress by analyzing data, adjusting plans, and celebrating successes.
  • Provide training and supervision to Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), caregivers, and staff.
  • Collaborate with internal teams, families, and community partners to support consistent implementation.
  • Maintain compliance with all licensing, documentation, and ethical standards.
  • Participate in team meetings, case reviews, and quality improvement initiatives.
What You Bring
  • Master’s degree or higher in Applied Behavior Analysis, Psychology, Education, or related field.
  • Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in good standing with the BACB.
  • Missouri Behavior Analyst license (or ability to obtain).
  • Strong leadership, communication, and data analysis skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and behavioral data systems.
  • Compassionate approach, professional integrity, and commitment to client-centered care.
The Role at a Glance
  • Pay Range: $85,000–$90,000 annually
  • Stay-On Bonus: $10,000 during first year of employment
  • Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (some evenings or weekends for training/support)
  • Setting: Office-based with occasional community visits
  • Reports To: Chief Strategy Officer
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary + $10,000 stay-on agreement
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match up to 6%
  • Paid time off, holidays, and flexible scheduling
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness resources
  • Mileage reimbursement and referral bonuses
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re passionate about helping others reach their potential, we’d love to meet you. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
About CDD
For over five decades, Center for Developmentally Disabled has helped individuals with developmental disabilities live, work, and thrive independently in their communities. Our mission is to promote dignity, opportunity, and inclusion — and we’re looking for compassionate professionals like you to help us continue that work.
Apply today at www.CDDKC.org/Careers and start changing lives tomorrow!