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Developmental Specialist Jobs in Springfield, MA

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Developmental Specialist information

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How much do developmental specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental specialist in Springfield, MA is $24.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree do you need to be a developmental specialist?

A developmental specialist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as psychology, special education, social work, or a related area. Many positions prefer or require a master's degree and relevant certifications, such as the Certified Developmental Specialist credential, to work effectively with children and families in developmental and educational settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a developmental specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Developmental Specialist, you need a solid background in child development, early intervention strategies, and typically a degree in special education, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with assessment tools, individualized education plans (IEPs), and data management systems is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and effective communication help build trust with children and families while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing developmental needs and delivering effective support to promote positive outcomes for children.

What is a developmental specialist?

Developmental Specialists are professionals who assess and support the developmental needs of children, particularly those with delays or disabilities. They work closely with families, educators, and healthcare providers to create and implement individualized plans that promote cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth. Developmental Specialists may provide direct intervention, monitor progress, and offer guidance to caregivers to help children achieve their developmental milestones.

How does a developmental specialist typically collaborate with families and other professionals to support a child's progress?

Developmental Specialists frequently work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating closely with families, educators, therapists, and healthcare providers to develop and implement individualized intervention plans. They often conduct home visits or work in early intervention centers, providing guidance and support to families to reinforce developmental strategies in daily routines. Open communication and regular progress updates are essential, as is adapting interventions based on feedback from both the family and collaborating professionals, ensuring a holistic and coordinated approach to the child's growth.

What are popular job titles related to Developmental Specialist jobs in Springfield, MA?

For Developmental Specialist jobs in Springfield, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Developmental Specialist jobs in Springfield, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Developmental Specialist jobs in Springfield, MA are:

What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Developmental Specialist jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Developmental Specialist job openings:

Infographic showing various Developmental Specialist job openings in Springfield, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,707 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Child Development Specialist- Sub Acute Stabilization - Per Diem All shifts

The Village For Families & Children

Hartford, CT • On-site

$20.50/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description


Starting hourly rate $20.50 including an additional $1.50 for hours worked between 3pm-7am
Sub-Acute Crisis Stabilization Child Development Specialist
The Subacute Crisis Stabilization program (SACS) serves youth/young adults ages 5-18 years of age who are experiencing a behavioral health crisis, requiring more than 24 hours for full stabilization and no more than a 14 day stay. Trauma informed treatment through the SACS program is designed to support youth who are experiencing challenging life stressors (disruptive behaviors within the home/community, suicidal or homicidal thinking or are at high risk for using substances). Holistic family focused treatment will be provided to address such mental health stressors and support youth in transitioning back to their homes, schools and communities while reducing the need for hospitalizations/re-hospitalizations or emergency department use.
JOB SUMMARY
The Child Development Specialist I participate as a key member of a multi-disciplinary treatment team in the treatment and/or education of children with significant emotional, behavioral, and learning disabilities. This staff ensures that the children's physical and emotional needs are met daily and supports the children's academic learning by focusing on the enhancement of their social, recreational, and behavioral functioning.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Maintain the safety of children in all situations using supervision and the implementation of various therapeutic techniques, including Therapeutic Crisis Intervention.
  • Maintain a safe, clean and dignified milieu environment.
  • Serve as a healthy role model.
  • Demonstrate techniques that enhance problem solving abilities and enable growth and maturity.
  • Understand and relay relevant information.
  • Record and document critical information in a timely matter.
  • Communicate with parents/guardians in a professional and timely matter.
  • Communicate with coworkers in a professional and timely matter.
  • Communicate with external professionals (e.g. Teachers, DCF Workers) in a professional and timely manner.
  • Manage and assist in the modification of child behavior.
  • Maintain appropriate certifications (see Licensure Requirements below).
  • Provide safe transportation to and from program activities.
  • Conduct oneself in a professional, courteous manner in all job-related interactions.
  • Interact with children in a positive, nurturing, therapeutic manner.
  • Facilitate or co-facilitate therapeutic groups.
  • Participate in program meetings, agency meetings, supervision and training events as deemed appropriate by supervisor.
  • Conduct any other related work to ensure that the physical and emotional needs of the children are met and that the program continues to operate effectively.
  • May be required to work in other programs as needed.

Experience and Skills
  • Educational Requirements: Bachelor's Degree strongly preferred; Associates Degree or High School diploma considered.
  • Licensure/Certification Requirements: Valid driver's license and the capacity to attain or maintain a Public Service License, Medication Administration Certification, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Certification, American Red Cross First Aid and CPR Certification, Defensive Driving Certification, Safe Food Handling Certification.
  • Experience Level: Three years in human service field or experience working with special needs children.
  • Specific Skills, Knowledge and Ability Requirements: Knowledge of basic child development, issues related to the effects of abuse and neglect.
  • Must be able to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
  • Must be culturally competent to serve a diverse population.
  • Must have the ability to manage stress and to respond to emergency situations safely and calmly.
  • Proficient with word processing and spreadsheet applications. Possess solid general computer skills, including ability to work in a Windows XP environment. Familiarity with specific applications used by the Village a plus.
  • Physically able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations, i.e. must be able to supervise groups of children and perform physical intervention if required; must be able to move freely from place to place without restriction.
  • CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • All Regular Child Development Specialists in the Residential and Extended Day Treatment programs are required to obtain and maintain the following certifications:

  • All Child Development Specialists in the Residential and School programs are required to obtain and maintain the following certifications:

Certification Timeframe
Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) Within 2 months of hire
First Aid / CPR Within 2 months of hire
Public Service License (PSL)/V Endorsement Within 2 months of hire
DCF Medication Certification Within 6 months of hire