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Developmental Disability Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Youth Advocate Programs, Inc. embraces the principles of self-determination and positive approaches in our Developmental Disability Programs. Guided by the Everyday Lives philosophy from the Office ...

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Developmental Disability information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$35.3K

$53.4K

$84.8K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Philadelphia, PA is $53,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $56,000.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Developmental Disability jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Developmental Disability jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Developmental Disability jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

For Developmental Disability jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Developmental Disability job openings:

Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,368 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Direct Support Professional- ICF

COMHAR INC

Philadelphia, PA โ€ข On-site

$17.51/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

Looking for a career that makes a real difference? If you're passionate about helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, or autism, COMHAR welcomes you to begin your journey with us.


Full-Time and Part-Time | Multiple Shifts Available In the Philadelphia, PA 19133 Area


Rate: $17.51/HR


Job Summary

COMHAR is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) to join our team. The DSP provides direct services and residential support to individuals with intellectual, developmental, and/or behavioral health needs. This role plays a vital part in promoting each consumer's dignity, privacy, and independence while assisting with daily living activities, personal care, and community engagement. The Intermediate Care Facility/Intellectual Disability (ICF/ID) program, which serves individuals diagnosed with profound to severe intellectual disabilities and other related conditions. ย 


The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides compassionate, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting. This role includes assisting with daily living activities, personal hygiene, household tasks, and community engagement while ensuring each individual's dignity, privacy, and safety. Full-time positions are available across multiple shifts.


Key Responsibilities

  • Provide respectful, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential setting.
  • Assist with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, household tasks, and healthy routines.
  • Support meal preparation, encourage proper nutrition, serve meals, and complete cleanup.
  • Administer approved medications according to guidelines.
  • Safely operate COMHAR vehicles to transport consumers as needed.
  • Complete accurate and timely documentation for all assigned duties.
  • Report any crises, unusual incidents, or concerns to the Site Manager immediately.
  • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, required training, and quality improvement activities.
  • Maintain confidentiality of all consumer information and follow organizational policies.
  • Provide crisis intervention using approved techniques and assist at other sites when cross trained.


Employees are eligible for generous benefit options including but not limited to:


Full-time and Part-time employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, and dental insurance, life and disability coverage, a 403(b) retirement plan, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, an employee assistance program, and additional voluntary options such as disability, accident, and pet insurance. ***This is based on employment status***

Requirements

Required Qualifications and Experience:

  • High School Diploma (or GED)
  • Current PA Driver's License; satisfactory driving record; eligible to operate program vehicles.
  • Six months of related experience in an IDD Residential facility, ICF facility, or related environment
  • Able to maintain confidentiality and privacy of all consumer records and information.
  • Able to acquire working knowledge of COMHAR policies and other applicable regulations
  • Attention to details to ensure safety for residents and for safely operating program vehicles
  • Able to work well with individuals with varying emotional and cognitive challenges .
  • Able to successfully manage multiple tasks and priorities.
  • Able to complete assignments in a timely manner while adhering to COMHAR procedures.
  • CNA background is preferred but not required

About COMHAR:

COMHAR is a nonprofit human-services organization dedicated to empowering individuals, families, and communities to live healthier, self-determined lives. Our mission is: "To provide health and human services that empower individuals, families and communities to live healthier, self-determined lives." Serving the Philadelphia region since 1975, COMHAR provides a wide continuum of behavioral health, intellectual and developmental disability, substance use, and social support services. With programs that include outpatient treatment, residential services, community-based recovery centers, supportive housing, and specialized services for children, families, and diverse populations, COMHAR delivers person-centered care rooted in dignity, respect, and community integration. Today, COMHAR's team supports more than 5,500 people each month, helping individuals build stability, independence, and meaningful connections in their communities. COMHAR strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.

COMHAR is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace. COMHAR, Inc. is a not-for-profit community-based health and human service organization founded in 1975. We do not discriminate in services or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, past or present receipt of disability-related services or supports, marital status, veteran status, or any other class of persons protected by federal, state or local law.


CO-MHAR logo

About CO-MHAR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1975

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