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Developmental Disability Jobs in Rome, NY (NOW HIRING)

New York State

Deputy Director DDSO 2

Syracuse, NY

$156K - $197K/yr

Duties Description The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is looking for a creative, innovative leader who is capable of executing strategic decisions to serve ...

StateJobsNY

Deputy Director DDSO 2

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$156K - $197K/yr

Duties Description The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is looking for a creative, innovative leader who is capable of executing strategic decisions to serve ...

Upstate Caring Partners

Senior DSP

Canastota, NY

$25.91/hr

Minimum one-year experience in a direct support role with individuals with a Developmental Disability. * Travel is required. Must have a valid New York State driver's license. Benefits Our work ...

Upstate Cerebral Palsy

Senior DSP

Canastota, NY

$25.91/hr

Minimum one-year experience in a direct support role with individuals with a Developmental Disability. * Travel is required. Must have a valid New York State driver's license. Benefits Our work ...

Upstate Cerebral Palsy

Senior DSP

Canastota, NY

$25.91/hr

Minimum one-year experience in a direct support role with individuals with a Developmental Disability. * Travel is required. Must have a valid New York State driver's license. Benefits Our work ...

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All JobsDevelopmental Disability JobsDevelopmental Disability Jobs in Rome, NY

Developmental Disability information

See Rome, NY salary details

$33.1K

$50.1K

$79.5K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Rome, NY is $50,074.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,600.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to work with people with developmental disabilities?

Developmental disability professionals support individuals by promoting independence, implementing individualized plans, and using effective communication techniques. They often work in settings such as residential facilities, schools, or community programs, and may require training in behavior management and certifications like CPR or first aid. Building patience, empathy, and understanding of each person's unique needs is essential for effective support.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, commercial pilots, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers with experience. These positions often require specialized skills, certifications, or extensive experience, and income can vary based on performance and location.

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 jobs can sped people get?

Individuals with developmental disabilities can work in various roles such as retail associates, food service workers, office assistants, or custodial staff. Many employers offer accommodations and support, and vocational training or certifications can help improve job prospects in different industries.

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 five developmental disabilities?

Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions that begin in childhood and affect physical, learning, language, or behavior skills. The five most common developmental disabilities are autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These conditions often require specialized support and intervention from professionals in various settings.
What cities near Rome, NY are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities near Rome, NY with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Developmental Disability jobs near you
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Rome, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 74% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,074 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Direct Support Professional - Cicero, NY

Direct Support Professional - Cicero, NY

ADVOCATES INCORPORATED

Cicero, NY • On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for a rewarding way to make a difference while making a living? 

Advocates is seeking a creative and compassionate Mentor (DSP/1:1 support staff) to work with a gifted young man with a developmental disability. In this critical role, you will help him learn key independent living skills, assist him in experiencing social, recreational, and physical fitness opportunities in the community. The ideal candidate for the DSP position will have effective communication and leadership skills, patience, and strong organizational skills. Please respond with resume or summary of experience.    

Candidate must possess a keen sense of attention to detail, especially when electronically logging each day's time, mileage, and service documentation. DSP must have a valid email address. 

Hours and days of work:  

Days of the week are flexible, looking between the hours of 3:15-7  

Full-time opportunities may be available. 

Pay rate: $21 per hour starting rate when providing direct support. Higher pay rates available based on experience. The hourly rate for indirect/training is $16 per hour. 

Location: Cicero, NY 

In addition to the hourly wage, Advocates provides the following benefits to its employees: 

  • Mileage (reimbursed at the IRS standard mileage reimbursement rate when providing transportation to the individual)  

  • Life and Long-Term Disability insurance at no cost to the employee 

  • Health, dental, vision, and supplemental life insurance 

  • Employee Assistance Program 

  • 401k with up to a 2% match 

Advocates is a leading human services organization with over 1,300 dedicated employees serving people throughout Central New York. Advocates is an Equal Opportunity Employer.    

Requisition ID# 48569

  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • Must have a valid email address.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and auto insurance if required for the job assigned.
  • Must demonstrate sound decision-making skills.
  • Must demonstrate understanding for the Agency mission. People working in this position must believe in the philosophy of person-centered services, self-advocacy, and the right and ability of people we serve to self-direct their supports and services.
  • Must demonstrate patience and compassion.
  • Must have the ability to read and comprehend instructions, correspondence, and have the ability to write correspondence.
  • Must have basic reasoning skills including the ability to analyze and problem solve.
  • Must be able to tolerate a moderate noise level in the work environment and must be able to handle distractions.
  • Ability to handle physical aspects of the job, including sitting, standing, using hands to reach, walk, push, or lift up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Background checks required
  • Education & Experience: GED or High School Diploma preferred. Applicable job experience preferred.
  • Desired Skills and Abilities: previous experience working 1:1 in a related service environment preferred. Knowledge of disability related issues preferred.
  • Other: The individual does not have the authority to set the staff salary in this model. The Mentor is paid at the provider's rate for the service based on an assessment of the specific support needs of the individual in the areas of behavioral support, communication support, and physical support needs.

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