1

Developmental Disability Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Training & development Mobile Female Exercise Specialist Compensation: Above-average hourly compensation * Commission * Renewal bonus * Client referral bonus * Employee referral incentive * Get paid ...

Showing results 21-40

Developmental Disability information

See Portland, OR salary details

$37.1K

$56.1K

$89.1K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Portland, OR is $56,087.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,700.00 and $58,900.00 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 are the different types of developmental disabilities?

Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions that cause lifelong impairments in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. Common types include autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome. These disabilities often require specialized support and intervention throughout a person's life.

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 Portland, OR? For Developmental Disability jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,087 per year, or $27 per hour.

Job Coach (Part Time - GSE)

ALBERTINA KERR CENTERS

Portland, OR • On-site

$20.71/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Albertina Kerr rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At Albertina Kerr, we believe that all people thrive in nurturing and inclusive communities.  Our mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges to lead self-determined lives in their communities.

As a Job Coach, you’ll support a group of individuals at a host company site in a warehouse environment, helping them succeed in their roles while fostering independence and workplace integration. You’ll collaborate with employment teams, community partners, and employers to ensure long-term success for those you support.

This position also offers schedule flexibility to accommodate the supported employees work schedule AND your lifestyle by offering hours in the evening, daytime and weekends. This is a part-time position with a possibility to become full-time. 

  • Shifts would be Monday and Thursday mornings, with potential to cross train at our other GSE location

Essential Duties

  • Provide hands-on coaching and support to our participants at local community employment sites.
  • Maintain accurate records, including attendance and timesheets.
  • Educate employers on the benefits of inclusive hiring and ADA compliance.
  • Break down job tasks and implement effective training strategies.
  • Foster natural workplace supports and social integration.
  • Ensure safety and respond to incidents appropriately.
  • Transport supported workers to and from job sites as needed in a company van.
  • Work closely with Employment Consultants, Program Managers, and external partners.
  • Act as a liaison with families, service coordinators, and vocational counselors.
  • Maintain clear, professional communication with all stakeholders.

If you believe a healthy community is built by everyone’s effort and you're seeking a career with variety, opportunities to teach others and learn more about what people do and how businesses work, you'll love being a Job Coach at Kerr!

Benefits

  • Paid internal training and career development
  • Paid holidays and time off

Qualifications

  • One year of developmental disability services experience or 6 months of Employment Services experience, preferred.
  • Ability to work a varied schedule based on jobs obtained by participants.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with participants, staff, employers, and other parties in written and spoken English.
  • Be available to work when scheduled and based on employment of participants
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • Ability to stand for prolonged periods
  • Ability to meet background check, reference checks, and organization's driving requirements of having a current and valid driver's license and no more than two driving infractions in the last two years

What Albertina Kerr employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom