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

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Newton, MA

$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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Natick, MA

$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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, 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 ...

Advocates

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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Auburndale, MA

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates, Inc

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 ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA

$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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Hudson, MA

$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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Framingham, MA

$19/hr

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 ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Auburndale, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Auburndale, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Southborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Marlborough, MA

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Framingham, MA · On-site

$19/hr

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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Auburndale, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Auburndale, MA

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates, Inc

Direct Service Worker

Southborough, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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 ...

Advocates

Direct Service Worker

Auburndale, MA · On-site

$18.50/hr

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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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDevelopmental Service Worker JobsDevelopmental Service Worker Jobs in Boston, MA

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:
Developmental Service Worker jobs near you
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.

Direct Service Worker

Advocates

Marlborough, MA • On-site

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Overview
Starting Rate: $18.50/hour
Schedule: Tuesday through Saturday 2pm-10pm
Come join the Advocates team as a Direct Service Worker! In this entry-level role, you will support individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges. As a Direct Service Worker, you will work collaboratively on a team to supervise the daily activities of program residents. You will provide ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling to program residents, following individualized plans to increase independence and achieve goals. You will also be responsible for medication management, assisting with finances, and helping residents integrate into the community.
Who We Are
At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges.
We're a nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.
At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive.
Minimum Education Required
High School Diploma/GED
Responsibilities
  • Participate in the development of treatment plans and attend other treatment meetings, including weekly staff meetings.
  • Document progress towards treatment plans.
  • Perform interventions with clients that address their identified goals and result in skill development.
  • Provide linkage with other program staff and other service providers.
  • Communicate program participant's progress, mental status, and any changes in daily notes.
  • Provide ongoing support, guidance, role modeling and supervision to clients.
  • Identify and address community integration issues for clients with supervisor's direction.
  • Monitor and document medication administration.
  • Ensure a clean, safe and home-like environment for clients.
  • Remain alert at all times throughout scheduled work shift.
  • Ensure all paperwork, reports, trainings are up to date and completed within the Divisions expected timelines
  • Attend and actively participate in core training and maintain certification of required trainings (CPR/First Aid, Crisis Management, MAP).
  • Provide crisis intervention and access emergency services as needed.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree; or High School Diploma or equivalent degree and one year of related experience.
  • Excellent interpersonal, judgement and coaching skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to utilize basic computer applications.
  • Desire to thrive in a fast-paced, client-centered, team-oriented environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.
  • Must hold a valid driver's license, have access to an operational and insured vehicle and be willing to use it to transport clients.
  • Strongly prefer a candidate that will have a demonstrated understanding of and competence in serving culturally diverse populations.

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.

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