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Developmental Disability Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Developmental Disability information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$39.8K

$60.2K

$95.6K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Seattle, WA is $60,187.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,200.00 and $63,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Seattle, WA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% As Needed, 62% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 70% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,187 per year, or $28.9 per hour.
Intellectual Developmental Disabilities Services Counselor

Intellectual Developmental Disabilities Services Counselor

Kitsap Mental Health Services

Port Orchard, WA • On-site

$26.89 - $33.61/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Kitsap Mental Health Services rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Intellectual Developmental Disabilities Services Counselor

Full-Time, On-Site (includes community outreach)

Hiring Range: $26.89 - $33.61 Per Hour

Benefits at a Glance

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Health, Dental & Vision
  • Generous PTO: Up to 19 days + 2 mental health days + 10 holidays (pro-rated for part-time)
  • Fully Paid YMCA Membership for you and eligible family members
  • Company-Paid Life & Disability Insurance
  • Student Loan Assistance & Professional Development
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with Company Contributions
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Pet Insurance
  • Free Wellness App (2MorrowHealth)
  • Collaborative, Supportive Team Environment

Kitsap Mental Health Services (KMHS) is seeking an Intellectual Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Services Counselor to support adults living with developmental and intellectual disabilities. In this role, you will provide therapy, care coordination, and outreach services in both office and community settings. You will work closely with clients, caregivers, and partner agencies to support stability and daily functioning. You will be part of a team focused on consistent, coordinated care. If you want to support clients with complex needs in a community setting, we welcome your application.


Primary Responsibilities:

Provide care coordination and direct services for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, including individual and group counseling, crisis support, and case management.
Deliver services in the community, including adult family homes, day programs, hospitals, and other settings as needed.
Support clients in building daily living skills and accessing resources that promote independence and stability.
Work closely with caregivers, guardians, and family systems to support consistent care.
Coordinate care with DDA, DSHS, housing providers, and other community partners.
Participate in treatment team meetings, case consultations, and care planning activities.
Maintain working knowledge of DSM criteria and apply clinical judgment in complex cases involving co-occurring conditions.
Provide education related to substance use, mental health, and daily functioning; coordinate with substance use providers as needed.
Provide crisis intervention and coordinate with Designated Crisis Responders when appropriate.
Document services clearly and on time in accordance with agency policies and WAC requirements.
Support integration of behavioral health with primary care services as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Gather and coordinate information needed for clinical decision-making and treatment planning.
Collaborate with the Developmental Disabilities Liaison to support continuity of care for clients receiving stabilization services.
Manage workload in a fast-paced environment and prioritize multiple responsibilities.
Apply current practices in working with co-occurring disorders, including the intersection of IDD and mental health.

Minimum Qualifications:

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in psychology, social services, or behavioral health field.

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS: Minimum of two (2) years of job-related experience. The capacity to work well with vulnerable adults and their networks of care.

This position requires driving clients in a personal vehicle on behalf of the agency. Incumbent must meet all agency driving requirements, including being at least 21 years old, having been licensed for a minimum of three years, successfully completing a motor vehicle history check,possessingand maintaining a current, valid driver's license in the state of Washington, and having reliable, insured transportation.

LICENSES/CREDENTIALS: Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration within 60 days of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS: Three (3) or more years of experience. Prior knowledge of and experience with IDD population.

Performance Requirements:

KNOWLEDGE:

  1. Maintain a working knowledge of current community mental health trends, including health care reform, current assessment, the treatment approach for clients with co-occurring disorders, and behavioral health medications.
  2. Maintain a working knowledge of mental health rehabilitation standards.

SKILLS:

  1. Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with other employees, clients, organizations, and the public.
  2. Communicates clearly and concisely.
  3. Ability to operate a personal computer, fax machine, printer, and copier proficiently.

ABILITIES:

  1. Demonstrated ability to meet productivity standards.
  2. Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively as a team member.
  3. Able to assist in building positive working relationships with staff of all agency departments.
  4. Demonstrated ability to workeffectively with diverse communities and populations.

Equipment Operated: Standard office equipment including computers, fax machines, copiers, printers, telephones, etc. Operation of a motor vehicle.

Work Environment: Office and outreach.

Mental/Physical Requirements: While performing the job duties, the employee is required to walk, sit, use hands and fingers, reach with arms, talk, or listen. Peripheral vision is also required for this position. Frequent mobility and/or sitting required for extended periods.

Our recruitment processes are designed to prevent discrimination against our people regardless of gender identity or orientation, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, citizenship, or any aspect which makes someone unique.

Employment Type: Full-Time