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Intellectual Disability Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Job Developer

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$18 - $18.25/hr

Supported Employment serves adults age 18 and older who are diagnosed with a developmental and/or intellectual disability in Polk and surrounding counties. Enjoy a person-centered schedule and make a ...

Registered Nurse (RN)

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$63K - $98K/yr

At WRC, we're more than just a healthcare facility, we're a community dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. From the moment ...

Direct Support Professional

Cherokee, IA ยท On-site

$18.94 - $19.94/hr

Primary duties would include: assisting members with intellectual/physical disabilities in the areas of housekeeping, cooking, personal hygiene, behavior management and recreation. Our agency offers ...

Showing results 41-60

Intellectual Disability information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$22

$30

How much do intellectual disability jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for intellectual disability in Iowa is $22.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an intellectual disability professional do?

Intellectual disability professionals are specialists who support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They may include special education teachers, social workers, counselors, and direct support professionals. Their primary role is to assess needs, develop individualized care or education plans, provide support with daily living skills, and advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities. They often collaborate with families, healthcare providers, and community organizations. Their work helps improve quality of life and promote independence for those with intellectual disabilities.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work as an intellectual disability support professional?

To thrive as an Intellectual Disability Support Professional, you need a solid understanding of developmental disabilities, person-centered care principles, and often a relevant certification or associate degree. Familiarity with individualized support plans, documentation software, and basic first aid or CPR certification is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust and effectively supporting clients' needs. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure clients receive safe, respectful, and effective support that enhances their independence and quality of life.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities often encounter challenges such as communication barriers, behavioral concerns, and the need to tailor support to each person's unique abilities. Addressing these challenges involves practicing patience, using clear and adaptive communication methods, and collaborating closely with families and interdisciplinary teams. Ongoing training, access to community resources, and a supportive work environment can also help professionals effectively manage these challenges while promoting positive outcomes for clients.

What is the difference between Intellectual Disability vs Special Education Teacher?

AspectIntellectual DisabilitySpecial Education Teacher
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in special education or related field, certification may be neededRequires a bachelor's degree in education, certification in special education often required
Work EnvironmentSupports individuals with intellectual disabilities in schools, clinics, or residential settingsWorks in classrooms, schools, and educational programs supporting students with disabilities
Industry UsageFocuses on diagnosing, supporting, and developing programs for individuals with intellectual disabilitiesFocuses on teaching, developing curricula, and supporting students with various disabilities

Intellectual Disability refers to a condition characterized by below-average intellectual functioning and adaptive skills, requiring specialized support. Special Education Teachers are professionals who develop and implement educational plans for students with disabilities, including those with intellectual disabilities. While both roles are interconnected, one is a condition and the other a profession dedicated to supporting individuals with such conditions.

What are popular job titles related to Intellectual Disability jobs in Iowa?

For Intellectual Disability jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Intellectual Disability jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Intellectual Disability jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Intellectual Disability job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,966 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Job Developer

Easterseals Iowa

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
A career at Easterseals Iowa is more than a job - it is an opportunity to make a positive difference in people's lives every day!
In our Job Developer position, we support adults with developmental disabilities in finding competitive work opportunities. This is done through understanding clients' preferred work environments and developing relationships with community businesses to facilitate employment opportunities for clients. Once a client accepts a job offer, Job Developers then assist clients in seeking accommodations on the job and provide on-the-job support as needed. Secondly, Career Coaches then provide continued support for clients in maintaining community employment. Other job duties include communicating with funding sources, parents, guardians, and other team members, tracking development activities, and providing documentation of services.
The starting wage is $18.00/hour, moving up to $18.25 after a successful completion of our 90-day orientation period. The schedule for this position is full-time, however flexible, with the opportunity to connect onsite and in the community with clients. Supported Employment serves adults age 18 and older who are diagnosed with a developmental and/or intellectual disability in Polk and surrounding counties. Enjoy a person-centered schedule and make a difference in someone's life!
Easterseals has:
  • Competitive wage and benefits including medical, dental, vision, employer-paid life insurance/accidental death and dismemberment/long term disability insurance, and a 403(b) tax-deferred retirement plan offered to all full-time employees
  • 20 days off the first year, increasing to 25 days off the second year, that we not only let you take, but expect you to take off!
  • A culture that promotes from within for advancement opportunities
  • A flexible team working environment

Application process consists of a 1st phone interview with the Recruitment & Talent Development Coordinator & 2nd interview with the Team Leader for the specific department.
Requirements
โ€ข Bachelor's degree or commensurate experience, preferably in human services, sociology, psychology, education, business, marketing, sales, or a business field, or two years' experience in a related field
โ€ข Ability to pass and maintain nationally recognized certification as an employment specialist within 24 months of hire.
โ€ข Experience with presentations, sales, or job development preferred.
โ€ข Ability to work in a team environment.
โ€ข Ability to communicate effectively in written or verbal formats
โ€ข Ability to make cold calls and be self-motivated.
โ€ข Ability to operate a computer and navigate through Easterseals database. Experience in word processing software; Word and Excel preferred
โ€ข Ability to work with a variety of people, with and without disabilities
โ€ข Ability to bend, stoop, twist, and lift
โ€ข Ability to transfer or move a minimum of 80 pounds.
โ€ข Have reliable transportation for work-related travel.
โ€ข Insurable under Easter Seals vehicle insurance policy
โ€ข Certified in CPR, First Aid, and Relational Mandt training (or ability to obtain certification) within the first 90 days.
โ€ข Ability to successfully complete Mandatory Reporter training within the first 30 days.
โ€ข Ability to work non-traditional hours as required, including weekends and evenings.
Salary Description
18.00-18.25