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Developmental Support Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Support Worker is responsible for the daily management of a therapeutic residential living ... Experience supporting youth with behavioral, emotional, or developmental challenges * Hands‑on ...

Join Children & Family Health Institute as a Family Support Worker Empower Families. Transform ... This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about early childhood development, family wellness ...

) Join Children & Family Health Institute as a Family Support Worker Empower Families. Transform ... This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about early childhood development, family wellness ...

Family Support Worker

Freehold, NJ · On-site

$16 - $24/hr

) Join Children & Family Health Institute as a Family Support Worker Empower Families. Transform ... This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about early childhood development, family wellness ...

Individual Support Worker (ISS)

Dayton, NJ · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

... developmental disabilities while developing strong relationships with their families and ... Our Individual Support Workers travel to the homes of our children and adoloscents. You will be ...

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Developmental Support Worker information

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$8

$17

$24

How much do developmental support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for developmental support worker in the United States is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a developmental support worker?

A Developmental Support Worker (DSW) is a professional who assists individuals with developmental disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. They provide support with daily activities, personal care, social integration, and skill development, often working in group homes, community centers, or clients' own residences. DSWs also advocate for their clients' rights and help them access resources, participate in community activities, and achieve personal goals. Their work is essential in promoting the dignity, inclusion, and well-being of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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

To thrive as a Developmental Support Worker, you need knowledge of developmental disabilities, behavior management, and personal care, typically supported by a relevant diploma or certificate in social services or developmental services. Familiarity with assistive technologies, individualized support plans (ISPs), and documentation systems is commonly required. Patience, empathy, strong communication, and problem-solving are vital soft skills for supporting clients and collaborating with families and care teams. These skills ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities receive safe, respectful, and effective support tailored to their unique needs.

How do developmental support workers typically collaborate with other professionals to provide holistic care for clients?

Developmental Support Workers frequently work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with nurses, social workers, therapists, and family members to create and implement individualized support plans. Regular team meetings and open communication are essential for ensuring all aspects of a client's well-being are addressed, from daily living skills to emotional and social development. This collaborative approach not only enhances client outcomes but also offers Developmental Support Workers opportunities to learn from other professionals and expand their skill sets. Being proactive in communication and documentation helps ensure seamless care and fosters a supportive work environment.

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

AspectDevelopmental Support WorkerPersonal Support Worker
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or certification in developmental support or related fieldsRequires a Personal Support Worker certificate or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with developmental disabilities in community, residential, or educational settingsAssists clients with daily living activities in home or healthcare settings
Employer & IndustryFound in healthcare, social services, and community organizationsEmployed mainly in home care, nursing homes, and healthcare facilities

Developmental Support Workers focus on assisting individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve independence and improve quality of life, often working in specialized settings. Personal Support Workers primarily provide daily personal care and support to clients in home or healthcare environments. While both roles require compassionate care and relevant certifications, their work settings and client needs differ.

More about Developmental Support Worker jobs
Infographic showing various Developmental Support Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,962 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


One Hope United rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Support Worker is responsible for the daily management of a therapeutic residential living environment at our Hope house in Deland, FL. The support worker promotes the learning of skills for emotional, mental, and physical health; provides a therapeutic, safe, and structured environment, as specified, in each youth’s Individual Treatment Plan.

Job Duties Include:
  • Provides supervision of youth in accordance with OHU and DCF policies
  • Maintains a therapeutic home Interactions with all clients reflect a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach
  • Teaches, models, and participates in individual and group instruction in daily living, recreational activities, social skills, emotional regulation skills, and independent living skills as prescribed by each youth’s Individual Treatment Plan and the OHU Residential Program Plan.
  • Continually trains and maintains certification in the implementation of Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) or other approved behavior modification program
  • Follows OHU Residential Program Plan, including daily schedule, administration of expectations and associated consequences, and mental health treatment of youth in residential care
  • Demonstrates the highest investment in and commitment to quality improvement practices in order to continuously improve the delivery of services to our clients
  • Maintains a spirit of teamwork with other residential home staff; this includes attending weekly team meetings and staffings, as required
  • Attends meetings, training, seminars, and conferences as assigned by supervisory or administrative staff
  • Transports clients (youth) and their families to mandated court hearings, school appointments, doctor appointments or other case related appointments
  • Completes all documentation required for the position in a timely and accurate manner
  • Abides by client and program confidentiality to the highest standard
Qualifications
Education
  • High School Diploma or GED
Other
  • Minimum 21 years of age
  • Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record with OHU required levels of coverage for auto insurance
  • DCF background check amp; approval to transport youth
Required Skills
1–2 years of experience working with children, adolescents, or young adults, preferably in:
  • Residential treatment centers
  • Group homes
  • Foster care or child welfare programs
  • Juvenile justice or diversion programs
  • Mental health or behavioral health settings
  • Experience supporting youth with behavioral, emotional, or developmental challenges
  • Hands‑on experience with behavior management, crisis intervention, or de‑escalation techniques
  • Experience maintaining documentation, incident reports, and daily activity logs
  • Direct experience working in a structured, trauma‑informed environment
We Invest in You!
  • Tuition assistance up to $2500 per year
  • Up to 4 weeks paid Vacation Days, up to 6 paid Personal Days, and up to 5 paid Sick days annually
  • Medical, dental, vision, 403b Retirement, flexible spending accounts, health savings account, and short-term disability options
  • Agency paid life up to $50K based on salary
  • Voluntary Supplemental Life for Employee, Spouse, and Child(ren)
  • Voluntary Legal Plans
  • Agency paid long term after 1 year of employment
  • Career ladders, professional development, and promotion opportunities
  • Free LCSW and LCPC Supervision hours available in some locations
A Different Kind of Employer One Hope United is strong and ready to grow. Are you ready to grow with us?
  • 800+ talented professionals strong, serving 10,000 children and families in Illinois, and Florida
  • Fiscally stable, $70 Million agency-- strong since 1895
  • Energetic leadership and a rich community of support
One Hope United does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. One Hope United is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. OHU participates in E-Verify.

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