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Developmental Disability Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

The Employment Specialist works directly with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to provide person-centered employment services and support, including: * Teaching job search ...

Vehicle Operator

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Provides transportation for adults who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Vehicle Operator ensures the safety of the vehicle for operations, assists ambulatory and wheelchair-bound ...

Showing results 41-60

Developmental Disability information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$34.5K

$52.2K

$82.9K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Rochester, NY is $52,182.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $54,800.00 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 job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Nights, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,182 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Employment Specialist

The Arc

Rochester, NY โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

$1000 Sign on Bonus Available

People with disabilities represent the minority group with the highest unemployment and underemployment rates in the country. An Employment Specialist at the Arc of Monroe is an advocate for social justice, diversity in the workplace, equity and inclusion for the disability community. You will support people to develop employment skills, build relationships, and become an integrated part of the Rochester community.

The Employment Specialist works directly with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to provide person-centered employment services and support, including:

  • Teaching job search skills to participants with disabilities
  • Identifying and addressing individuals' potential barriers to successful employment such as: concerns about government benefits and transportation
  • Using an analytical job match to facilitate appropriate job placements
  • Promoting Job Path programs and the valuable aspects of hiring people with disabilities to potential employers for the purpose of securing employment opportunities for individuals with various disabilities
  • Delivering effective on-site and/or off-site intensive coaching following placement to ensure retention and employer/employee satisfaction
  • Providing other services as needed, including mobility/travel training, self-advocacy training, work readiness training, and supports to participants in internships

A successful applicant will demonstrate excellent communication and relationship-building skills. An Employment Specialist engages people we support and establishes trusting, collaborative relationships directed toward the goal of maintaining competitive employment in community job settings with other workers without intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The Employment Specialist works in collaboration with the agency and the department, the participant's family and support team, and state funding partners to provide cohesive support to each participant.

In addition to providing high-quality service and supports, an Employment Specialist completes necessary paperwork, reports, and documentation in an accurate, objective and timely manner to meet Arc of Monroe, federal and state regulatory requirements.

Benefit Offerings:

Health Insurance with agency contribution

Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

Employer Paid term life insurance

Retirement plan with Agency match

Tuition Reimbursement & Employee Referral Bonus

8 Paid Holidays

Working for a non-profit agency may qualify you for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program through the Federal Government

Required Skills:

Utilize strategies such as job development, job search/matching, employer education, task analysis and advocacy to help secure employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Coach people on their job site to support them in skill mastery, building professional social skills, and ensure employer/employee satisfaction

Monitor job performance and job-related skills; evaluate peoples' skills, set realistic goals, coach people as they work toward goals related to work skill development, and reevaluate goals as progress is made

Retain a flexible working schedule to ensure people receive the best service possible

Maintain through, accurate, up-to-date records, billable service notes and Arc Job Path documentation

Be an culturally-competent, tactful mentor and advocate for people with disabilities

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining effective levels of consumer service

Ability to stay calm and level-headed under pressure and still perform well

Must demonstrate good judgment, independent decision making and knowledge of community resources

Ability to foster teamwork between all team members via open communication, sharing of responsibilities, and a positive, constructive attitude.