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Developmental Services Worker Dds Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Direct Care Workers

Monson, MA

$14 - $18/hr

Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) seeks a caring and compassionate applicant for the role of DIRECT CARE WORKER II (DCW II). The DCW II position is a shift ...

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Developmental Services Worker Dds information

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$44K

$52.7K

$60K

How much do developmental services worker dds jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental services worker dds in the United States is $52,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by developmental services workers and how can they be managed?

Developmental Services Workers often encounter challenges such as supporting individuals with complex behavioral or medical needs and managing emotional stress from difficult situations. Building strong communication skills and practicing self-care are essential for managing these challenges. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including social workers, nurses, and family members—helps ensure comprehensive support for clients. Ongoing training and mentorship are also valuable resources that help DSWs adapt and thrive in their roles.

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

To thrive as a Developmental Services Worker (DSW), you need knowledge of developmental disabilities, crisis intervention, and care planning, usually backed by a relevant diploma or certification in developmental services. Familiarity with assistive technologies, documentation software, and behavioral support plans is often required. Compassion, patience, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help DSWs build trust and effectively support individuals with diverse needs. These skills enable DSWs to provide safe, respectful, and empowering care that enhances the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities.

What is a developmental services worker?

Developmental Services Workers (DSW) in a DDS (Department of Developmental Services) setting are professionals who support individuals with developmental disabilities, helping them achieve greater independence and quality of life. They assist with daily living activities, advocate for client rights, and implement individualized support plans. DSWs may work in residential, community, or day program settings, and collaborate with families and other professionals to provide holistic care. Their role is essential in promoting inclusion, dignity, and personal growth for people with developmental challenges.

What is the difference between Developmental Services Worker Dds vs Personal Support Worker?

AspectDevelopmental Services Worker DdsPersonal Support Worker
CredentialsTypically requires a college diploma or certification in developmental servicesUsually requires a certificate or diploma in personal support or health care
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with developmental disabilities in community or residential settingsProvides personal care and support in home, community, or healthcare facilities
Employer & IndustryNon-profit organizations, government agencies, residential facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, home care agencies

Developmental Services Workers Dds and Personal Support Workers both provide essential care but differ mainly in their focus and work settings. Dds workers specialize in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, often in community or residential environments, while Personal Support Workers primarily assist with daily living activities in healthcare or home settings. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job fit.

More about Developmental Services Worker Dds jobs
What states have the most Developmental Services Worker Dds jobs? States with the most job openings for Developmental Services Worker Dds jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Developmental Services Worker Dds jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Developmental Services Worker Dds jobs are:
Infographic showing various Developmental Services Worker Dds job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,710 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) seeks a caring and compassionate applicant for the role of Direct Care Worker II (DCW II). The DCW II position is a shift supervisor position that provides oversight and direct services to individuals with developmental disabilities. The position is an excellent opportunity, including for potential candidates who are interested in furthering their career within the Department of Developmental Services, as it affords valuable work experience to build one's foundation for professional development and advancement.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

  • Assist individuals in meeting his/her personal care and nutritional needs;
  • Assist and support individuals in making choices in his/her life;
  • Maintain individuals' rights by complying with applicable laws and regulations;
  • Provide leisure activities; may drive individuals to work, appointments, and to recreational activities;
  • Provide daily supervision and training to Direct Care Worker I staff to ensure that they are acting as advocates for the individuals and demonstrate; respect and positive regard for individuals with developmental disabilities;
  • Oversee, as the shift supervisor, the health and safety of the individuals by administering medications;
  • Communicate with appropriate medical and health care providers regarding health concerns and accompany individuals to various appointments as necessary. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of practices and procedures necessary to assure the health and safety of individuals, including evacuation procedures.
  • Ability to plan, assign, and coordinate the activities of others.
  • Ability to give written or oral instructions in a clear and understandable manner.

Agency Requirements: 

  • Must possess current and valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License.

Please Note: 

This position is located in the Commonwealth Program in South Hadley, MA.

  • Shift: 2:30pm-10:30pm
  • Days Off: Friday/Saturday

This is a 24 hour/ 7 days a week staff position. The Department of Developmental Services requires employees in this position to be able to perform mandatory overtime when circumstances dictate the need.

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-Offer 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: 

  • Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry

  • 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 MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at 617-979-8500 for assistance.

For questions concerning the information in this requisition, please contact Human Resources at 800-510-4122, press 4. 

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.