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Intellectual Disability Advocacy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QIPD

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$47K - $55K/yr

The tasks are highly complex and require intellectual disability management skills, negotiation and communication skills, organizational abilities, advocacy skills, and overall business sense.

QIPD

Anderson, IN · On-site

$47K - $55K/yr

The tasks are highly complex and require intellectual disability management skills, negotiation and communication skills, organizational abilities, advocacy skills, and overall business sense.

QIPD

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$47K - $55K/yr

The tasks are highly complex and require intellectual disability management skills, negotiation and communication skills, organizational abilities, advocacy skills, and overall business sense.

Showing results 41-60

Intellectual Disability Advocacy information

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How much do intellectual disability advocacy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for intellectual disability advocacy in the United States is $23.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is intellectual disability advocacy?

Intellectual disability advocacy involves supporting and promoting the rights, inclusion, and well-being of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Advocates work to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities have equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and community life. They may assist with legal rights, policy changes, and raising public awareness, as well as providing direct support to individuals and their families. The goal is to empower those with intellectual disabilities to live fulfilling, autonomous lives and participate fully in society.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in intellectual disability advocacy, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Intellectual Disability Advocacy often encounter challenges such as navigating complex service systems, addressing accessibility barriers, and ensuring that individuals' voices are genuinely represented. These challenges can be addressed by staying current on relevant laws and resources, building strong relationships with both individuals and service providers, and engaging in continuous advocacy training. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and community organizations also plays a key role in overcoming obstacles and ensuring effective support for clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intellectual disability advocate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intellectual Disability Advocate, you need a background in social work, psychology, or a related field, along with a strong understanding of disability rights and relevant legislation. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and sometimes certifications like Certified Disability Advocate are often required. Exceptional communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills help build trust and effectively represent clients’ interests. These competencies ensure advocates can navigate complex systems, secure needed services, and empower individuals with intellectual disabilities.

What is the difference between Intellectual Disability Advocacy vs Disability Support Worker?

AspectIntellectual Disability AdvocacyDisability Support Worker
CredentialsMay require advocacy certifications, social work, or psychology backgroundOften requires certification in disability support or caregiving
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, community outreach, policy advocacyResidential facilities, community centers, clients' homes
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, advocacy groupsResidential care facilities, community service providers
Primary FocusPromoting rights, policy change, awarenessProviding direct personal care and assistance

Intellectual Disability Advocacy focuses on promoting rights, policy change, and raising awareness for individuals with intellectual disabilities, often working in advocacy organizations or government agencies. In contrast, Disability Support Workers provide direct care and assistance to individuals, working in residential or community settings. Both roles require relevant certifications but differ mainly in their focus and work environment.

More about Intellectual Disability Advocacy jobs

What cities are hiring for Intellectual Disability Advocacy jobs?

Cities with the most Intellectual Disability Advocacy job openings:

What states have the most Intellectual Disability Advocacy jobs?

States with the most job openings for Intellectual Disability Advocacy jobs include:

Infographic showing various Intellectual Disability Advocacy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,938 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP)

Ray Graham Association Current Openings

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$24.29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description:

Make a Difference Every Day


At Ray Graham Association, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to reach, grow, and achieve. As a Residential Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP), you will play a vital role in ensuring people with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive high-quality, person-centered supports that promote independence, choice, and meaningful lives.


If you're passionate about advocacy, leadership, and creating positive outcomes, we'd love to have you join our team.


Position Summary

The Residential QIDP provides case coordination, develops and monitors individualized person-centered services, and ensures all supports meet state and federal regulatory requirements. This position partners closely with individuals served, families, direct support professionals, medical providers, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure services are personalized, effective, and compliant.

The QIDP serves as the primary advocate and coordinator for assigned individuals while ensuring compliance with all applicable standards established by DHS, IDPH, DCFS, CMS, BQM, and other regulatory agencies.


What You'll Do

Person-Centered Leadership

  • Develop, implement, and monitor Person-Centered Plans, Skill Building Plans, and Positive Behavior Support Plans.
  • Lead interdisciplinary teams in developing customized supports that help individuals achieve their personal goals.
  • Build meaningful relationships with individuals to understand their preferences, strengths, and support needs.
  • Advocate for individuals while promoting informed choice, dignity, and independence.
  • Coordinate medical, behavioral, and support services to ensure continuity of care.
  • Monitor implementation of support plans and proactively address barriers to successful outcomes.
  • Foster collaborative partnerships with families and guardians through open communication and ongoing support.

Team Collaboration & Training

  • Facilitate person-centered team meetings and annual reviews.
  • Train Direct Support Professionals on individualized support plans and required documentation.
  • Monitor data collection and evaluate the effectiveness of support strategies.
  • Promote a collaborative team culture focused on quality services and continuous improvement.
  • Assist with agency orientation and staff training as assigned.
  • Support excellent customer service for individuals and families.

Advocacy & Compliance

  • Coordinate admissions and onboarding for new individuals and families.
  • Ensure services consistently reflect person-centered values and best practices.
  • Educate team members on individual rights, self-determination, and person-centered thinking.
  • Monitor compliance with:
    • Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS)
    • Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
    • Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)
    • Bureau of Quality Management (BQM)
    • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
    • Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL)
    • Office of Inspector General (OIG)
  • Maintain accurate documentation and ensure regulatory deadlines are met.

Community Partnership

  • Build positive relationships with families, healthcare providers, community agencies, and other stakeholders.
  • Promote community inclusion and meaningful opportunities for individuals supported.
  • Support organizational initiatives that improve quality of life and service excellence.

Benefits

Ray Graham Association offers a competitive benefits package for eligible full-time employees, including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% Employer Match
  • Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employer-Paid Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Ongoing Training and Professional Development
  • Opportunities for Career Advancement
Requirements:

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, or a related field.
  • Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP) Registry certification.
  • Illinois Direct Support Professional (DSP) Registry status.
  • Previous experience providing direct support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Valid Illinois driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to travel throughout DuPage County and other Ray Graham Association locations.
  • Successful completion of:
    • State Police Background Check
    • CANTS Clearance
    • LEADS Background Check
    • Pre-employment drug screening

Preferred

  • Previous QIDP experience.
  • Experience coordinating interdisciplinary teams.
  • Knowledge of Illinois DHS regulations, CMS Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) requirements, and person-centered planning.
  • Experience developing behavior support and individualized service plans.
  • Knowledge of Therap electronic documentation system.
  • Knowledge of the Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST) system
  • Familiarity with Tarrytown Pharmacy processes and medication coordination.

Knowledge & Skills

  • Strong leadership and relationship-building skills.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities while meeting deadlines.
  • Commitment to person-centered practices and advocacy.
  • Strong documentation and computer skills.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

Why Join Ray Graham Association?

For more than 75 years, Ray Graham Association has empowered individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live meaningful, self-directed lives. We are committed to creating person-centered supports while fostering an inclusive workplace where employees are valued, respected, and empowered to make a lasting impact.


If you're looking for a rewarding career where your leadership and advocacy truly make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.


Ray Graham Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are a drug-free workplace. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment drug screening, background checks, and all required regulatory clearances.