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Developmental Service Worker Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Worker Job Reference Number: 40264 Employment Type: Full-Time Segment: Dining & Events ... We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in ...

Food Service Worker Job Reference Number: 40264 Employment Type: Full-Time Segment: Dining & Events ... We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in ...

Food Service Worker Job Reference Number: 40264 Employment Type: Full-Time Segment: Dining & Events ... We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in ...

Food Service Worker

Bedford, MA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Food Service Worker Job Reference Number: 38666 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining ... We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in ...

Food Service Worker Job Reference Number: 38666 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment: Dining ... We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in ...

Direct Service Worker

Hudson, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

Direct Service Worker

Newton, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health Field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

Direct Service Worker

Hudson, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

Direct Service Worker

Hudson, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health Field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health Field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

Direct Service Worker

Natick, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health Field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ... Experience working in the Behavioral Health field * Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching ...

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily ... Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ...

As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily ... Who We Are At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental ...

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Developmental Service Worker information

See Boston, MA salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do developmental service worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental service worker in Boston, MA is $23.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges developmental service workers face when supporting clients with diverse needs?

Developmental Service Workers often encounter the challenge of adapting their support strategies to meet the unique and evolving needs of each client. This can include managing behavioral outbursts, communicating effectively with non-verbal individuals, and balancing the expectations of families and other professionals. Additionally, DSWs must stay current with best practices and documentation requirements while fostering an inclusive, respectful environment. Strong teamwork and ongoing professional development are essential for overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a developmental service worker?

To thrive as a Developmental Service Worker, you need a diploma in developmental services or a related field, along with a solid understanding of developmental disabilities and support strategies. Familiarity with individualized support plans, assistive technologies, and documentation systems is typically required. Compassion, patience, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to advocate for clients help professionals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing effective, person-centered support and fostering independence and well-being for individuals with developmental disabilities.

What is the difference between Developmental Service Worker vs Personal Support Worker?

AspectDevelopmental Service WorkerPersonal Support Worker
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or certificate in developmental services or related fieldRequires a personal support worker certificate or equivalent training
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with developmental disabilities in community or residential settingsAssists clients with daily living activities in homes or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNon-profit organizations, government agencies, healthcare providersHospitals, nursing homes, home care agencies

Developmental Service Workers focus on supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, often in community or residential settings, requiring specialized training. Personal Support Workers primarily assist with daily living activities in healthcare or home environments. While both roles involve caregiving, their focus and training differ, making them distinct career paths within the caregiving industry.

What is a developmental service worker?

A Developmental Service Worker (DSW) is a trained professional who supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to enhance their quality of life and promote inclusion in the community. DSWs assist with daily living activities, advocate for clients’ rights, and help develop life skills. They work in a variety of settings, including group homes, schools, and community agencies, and play a key role in supporting independence and social participation for those they assist.
What job categories do people searching Developmental Service Worker jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Service Worker jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Developmental Service Worker jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Developmental Service Worker job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Service Worker job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,990 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

$15 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

This position is located in PEABODY, MA
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) seeks a caring and compassionate applicant for the role of DIRECT CARE WORKER II (DSW II) who is committed to building meaningful relationships in order to provide outstanding care and service. The DSW II provides direct care services and aid to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing for the participants' needs in daily living and those skills necessary for community life.
Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):
  • Assist in the implementation of habilitative, behavioral and recreational programs; perform program-related cooking and housekeeping duties; dispense medications in accordance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations
  • Communicate about, and with, the individuals served in a manner which promotes their growth, human rights and integration into the community
  • Assist, instruct and support individuals in understanding and exercising their rights to their fullest potential
  • Report, as mandatory reporters, all abuse and neglect to the residential supervisor and to the Director of Residential support all incidences of abuse in accordance with regulations; and complete required paperwork
  • May drive individuals to work, appointments and recreational outings
  • Perform crisis intervention; and maintain confidential records of individuals.

Incumbents at this level, based on assignment may act as a shift supervisor, and are responsible for duties including the following:
  • Monitor Developmental Service Worker I's (DSW I's) to ensure that they are acting as advocates and demonstrating respect and positive regard for individuals with developmental disabilities.
  • Function as a working supervisor, providing daily supervision and training to DSW I's through instruction in the daily routines and schedules of individuals with developmental disabilities, through demonstration, and role modeling, in order to ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities receive appropriate services and opportunities within a normalized environment.
  • As a shift supervisor, implement services that ensure the safety and health of individuals by maintaining a safe and clean home environment: Observe, evaluate, and take appropriate and timely action in notifying pertinent medical staff of health-related issues, and performing other related assignments for the purpose of providing optimal care to persons with developmental disabilities.
  • Make staff assignments within residence, as shift supervisor.
  • Assist in the evaluations of DSW I's.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, push or pull heavy objects.

Required Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of the comprehensive service needs of persons with developmental/intellectual disabilities and their families/guardians.
  • Ability to give written or verbal instructions in a clear and understandable manner, and to plan, assign and coordinate the activities of others.

Agency Requirements:
  • Must possess current and valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License;
  • Applicants must pass the Medication Administration Program (MAP) certification;
  • After successfully completing a training program, the selected candidate must acquire and maintain; Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid (FA) certification.

PLEASE NOTE: This position is designated as an "EMERGENCY" position in the Department of Developmental Services Emergency Plan. This means that whenever the Governor declares that the Commonwealth is in a state of emergency, selected applicant will be required to report to work. This is a 24hour/7 days a week staff position. Candidates must be able to be flexible in their work schedule. The Department of Developmental Services requires employees in this position to be able to perform "MANDATORY OVERTIME" when circumstances dictate the need.
Please Note :
This position is located in the Northeast Regional Services in Peabody, MA
Hours: 40 Full Time
Schedule: 7am-3:30pm
Days Off: Friday/Saturday
Flexibility required to meet the needs of the program/area office
About the Department of Developmental Services:
The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.
For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds
Pre-Hire Process:
Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.
  • Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.
    Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:
  • Commission for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities (CPPD) Abuse Registry Search: https:cppdmass.gov
  • Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
  • National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check. https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks

ADA Reasonable Accommodation:
If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests
For technical help with Mass Careers , including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at 617-979-8500 for assistance.
For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800- 510-4122 Ext. #4.
ALL EMPLOYEES ARE PAID ON A BI-WEEKLY BASIS AND MUST HAVE DIRECT DEPOSIT
Qualifications:
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Minimum Entrance Requirements:
Applicants must have (A) at least one (1) year of full-time or equivalent part-time, experience in providing direct support services to persons with developmental/ intellectual, emotional or physical disabilities, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below.
Substitutions:
An Associate's degree or higher with a major in a human services field, including sociology, special education, psychology, rehabilitation counseling, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or other related field may be substituted for the required experience.
Incumbents are required to possess a current and valid motor vehicle driver's license at a class level specific to assignment.
Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
Title 101 CMR 23.00 ("Regulation") requires certain agency staff to have received the COVID-19 vaccination and Influenza vaccination, or have taken required mitigation measures, to prevent viral infection and transmission in State Hospitals and State Congregate Care Facilities. The Regulation applies to this position. Successful candidates will be required to acknowledge and attest to your vaccination status for both COVID-19 and Influenza.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.