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Developmental Disability Jobs in Tampa, FL (NOW HIRING)

Direct Care Provider

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Working in a group home environment with people who have dual diagnosis with a developmental disability and a mental illness. You must be able to work well with others , maintain a positive demeanor ...

Direct Care Provider

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15 - $16.50/hr

Working in a group home environment with people who have dual diagnosis with a developmental disability and a mental illness. You must be able to work well with others , maintain a positive demeanor ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

Must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university and a minimum of four (4) years professional experience working with persons with developmental disabilities. * Must demonstrate excellent ...

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Developmental Disability information

See Tampa, FL salary details

$33.1K

$50K

$79.4K

How much do developmental disability jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental disability in Tampa, FL is $49,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $52,400.00 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 are popular job titles related to Developmental Disability jobs in Tampa, FL? For Developmental Disability jobs in Tampa, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Disability jobs in Tampa, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Disability jobs in Tampa, FL are:
What cities near Tampa, FL are hiring for Developmental Disability jobs? Cities near Tampa, FL with the most Developmental Disability job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Disability job openings in Tampa, FL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 89% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 70% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,979 per year, or $24 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for providing training and technical assistance to Education staff regardingchildren’s development and special needs and ensures appropriate implementation of strategies and interventions in the classroom for children with suspected or diagnosed disabilities, including children receiving Tier Services and children with an LEA IEP. Responsible for providing support to the Mental Health Manager, Education Manager, Senior Program Manager.

   Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:00pm 

   Please apply online at www.youthrivefl.org 

   Only completed and signed applications will be considered.

 Full Time Position- Benefits Eligible: Vacation, Sick, PTO, Employer paid health benefits, Vision & Dental Plans, 403B retirement, 14 company paid holidays, Pet Insurance, Basic $30,000 Life Insurance Policy, Long-Term Disability Insurance (LTD) and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (AD&D). Public Service Loan Forgiveness Qualified Employer.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Coordinates and participates in the screening process, including early screening and throughout the school year based on Head Start Performance Standard timelines. Accurately scores and enters screening result data into ChildPlus.net.
  • Arranges for parent conferences to discuss screening results and requests consent for a referral to be made to Child Find / FDLRS / LEA for further evaluations to be completed.
  • Participates in case review meetings to discuss children with concerns, screening results, and to determine if support services and / or a referral to Child Find/FDLRS is appropriate.
  • Provides information to parents regarding parents’ rights under due process, procedural safeguards, Child Find / FDLRS, school district ESE continuum of services and offers resources and materials regarding  developmental services.
  • Provides parent support and offers written strategies and / or interventions for home.
  • Maintains detailed case notes in ChildPlus.net.
  • Submits reports, documents, and files as directed.
  • Initiates and completes referral packet for Child Find / FDLRS / LEA referrals.
  • Attends Project Spotlights, staff / parent conferences, service area meetings, and MDAT’s as needed.
  • Delivers, picks up and maintains accurate records for the Lending Library to enhance children’s development in all areas for children receiving developmental services.
  • Collaborates and consults with teaching staff, conducts classroom observations, monitoring, modeling, and tracks progress for children receiving inclusion services.
  • Conduct home visits as needed and assists classroom teacher in providing home activities for parents to stimulate children’s development as needed.
  • Reviews individualization plans in the classrooms for children receiving developmental services to ensureplans are appropriate and adequate and assists classroom teacher with implementation of Support Services and LEA IEP’s and develops appropriate activities to supplement lesson plans to meet children’s needs.
  • Inform Mental Health Manager when supplies, materials and / or equipment is needed to meet the special needs of children.
  • Assists in or leads parent and staff trainings and actively participates in center / classroom activities, parent meetings and annual parent activities as requested.
  • Acts as an advocate and role model for Head Start families. Assists in the recruitment children for the program.
  • Assists in the development and implementation of the annual training plan, including pre- service, in-service, T/TA, and ongoing training requirements.
  • Maintains confidentiality in all aspects of client, staff and agency information.
  • Maintains effective working interaction with coworkers and outside contacts that will enhance the operation of the Head Start program.
  • Organizes and prioritizes all assignments as directed.
  • Participates in community activities that enhance Head Start programs as directed.
  • Participates in ongoing monitoring, Community Assessment and Self-Assessment and performs reasonable related functions.
  • Participates in regular safety, storm and fire drills.
  • Uses and follows the policies / procedures of Head Start, federal, state and local regulations / laws, andfederal regulations / laws including the Head Start Performance Standards, applicable transmittal notices, and other administrative orders/directions.
  • Uses and follows the policies/procedures of You Thrive Florida, including but not limited to Personnel Policies, Occupational Health and Safety policies, payroll policies/practices, etc.
NON-ESSENTIAL/SECONDARY FUNCTIONS:

Performs any additional duties as directed or assigned by supervisor, management staff, program director or You Thrive Florida management staff. This description is intended to convey information essential to understanding thescope of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position.

JOB STANDARDS:

Education: Bachelor degree in Special Education, varying exceptionalities or related field.

Experience: Three years of experience in special education programs working with children with special needs, preferably in preschool or primary settings.

Licenses & Certifications: Valid Florida driver’s license and be insurable by Company’s current carrier. Subject to Federal, State and Local legal requirements/background checks/clearance for working with children. First Aid and CPR certified.

CRITICAL SKILLS, ABILITIES, & EXPERTISE:

Physical Requirements: These physical demands are representative of the physical requirements necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Sitting, standing for long periods of time, use of fingers, arms, hands and legs and voice/talking are constant. Good eyesight (correctable) and hearing (correctable) are essential. Squatting, walking, handling, grasping, stretching/reaching, bending at the waist, driving and light lifting and/or carrying (up to 15 lbs.) are frequent. Pushing, pulling, kneeling, balancing, turning, feeling, medium lifting and/or carrying (up to 50 lbs.) are occasional. Playing with children, which may include hopping, skipping, jumping, dancing, and twisting are occasional. Must have ability to get up from a seated position on the floor or a low chair without hesitation.

Equipment: Computer, facsimile, copy machine, calculator, multi-line phone and other small office and instructional equipment, playground equipment and vehicle.

Skills & Expertise: Ability to arrive to work daily and on time. Ability to work with limited direction. Knowledge of organization methods. Skill in completing work with a high degree of accuracy. Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing. Ability to establish effective working relationships with people, particularly parents and children.Ability to analyze and interpret data and human/family needs. Ability to use and operate a personal computer.Ability to work with children. Knowledge of early childhood issues. Ability to maintain child and parent confidentiality. Ability to be reliable, responsible and accountable to job requirements. Knowledge of community and community programs/resources.

ENVIRONMENTAL JOB FACTORS:

Job Location: Primary location is the Head Start facilities in Hernando, Sumter and/or Volusia counties. Occasional travel to other counties.

Work Environment: While performing the responsibilities of the position, these work environment characteristics are representative of the environment the employee will encounter. Office environment and working alone and with others frequently. Working with office equipment is frequent. Occasionally outdoors and operates a vehicle.

Please see the link below to the new Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness website. This site was implemented under the directive of HB 531 (2025). As part of these requirements, each specified agency must include a clear and conspicuous link to the webpage on its website and provide the link in all job vacancy advertisements and posts by the qualified entity.

https://info.flclearinghouse.com