Developmental Disabilities Specialist

Opportunities for Inclusion Inc; Waltham (MA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Opportunities for Inclusion is seeking a Developmental Disabilities Assistant to support participants in Day Habilitation, promoting independence and community inclusion.

You will implement activities of daily living, support behavior safety plans, coordinate with an interdisciplinary team, and help participants engage in community outings.

We value person-centered care, require a valid driver’s license, and offer a stable schedule in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Associate degree with 1–2 years of experience with people with disabilities or caregiving/teaching role.
• Or High School Diploma with 2–4 years related experience.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Strong English oral and written communication skills; willingness to learn basic American Sign Language and augmentative communication systems.
• Ability to obtain and maintain MAP, CPR, First Aid, and Basic Human Rights certifications within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Program Implementation: Teach and assist participants with Activities of Daily Living and Day Habilitation Service Plans to build independence.
• Behavior & Safety Support: Implement positive behavior support plans and promote hierarchies while maintaining a safe environment.
• Community Engagement: Lead and assist with community-based activities and outings (up to 30% of program time).
• Team Collaboration: Contribute to Interdisciplinary Team reviews and maintain program documentation.
• Environment & Preparation: Set up adaptive materials and prepare daily activities.

Skills

Communication skills

ASL basics

Education

Associate degree w/ 1–2 years experience

High School Diploma / GED with 2–4 years

MAP certification within 6 months

CPR certification within 6 months

First Aid certification within 6 months

Basic Human Rights certification within 6 months

Job description

At Opportunities for Inclusion, we are dedicated to fostering independence, dignity, and community inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities. We believe in a person-centered approach that prioritizes choice, respect, and fundamental human rights.

Position Overview

Are you passionate about making a real difference in people's lives? As a Developmental Disabilities Assistant in our Day Habilitation department, you will empower individuals to participate in and benefit from therapeutic and educational programming. You will play a vital role in enhancing self-care skills, promoting independence, and supporting community inclusion.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Implementation: Teach and assist participants with Activities of Daily Living and individualized Day Habilitation Service Plans to build independence.
• Behavior & Safety Support: Implement positive behavior support plans and promote hierarchies while maintaining a safe, respectful environment.
• Community Engagement: Lead and assist with community-based activities and outings (up to 30% of program time).
• Team Collaboration: Contribute to Interdisciplinary Team reviews and maintain accurate program tracking and documentation.
• Environment & Preparation: Assist in setting up adaptive materials, maintaining clean programming spaces, and preparing daily activities.

What We Are Looking For

Qualifications & Experience

• Education & Experience:
• Associate degree with 1–2 years of experience working with people with disabilities or in a caregiving/teaching role OR
• High School Diploma / GED with 2–4 years of related experience.
• Driver's License: Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record (annual verification required).
• Communication: Strong English oral and written communication skills; willingness to learn basic American Sign Language and augmentative communication systems.
• Certifications: Ability to obtain and maintain MAP, CPR, First Aid, and Basic Human Rights certifications within 6 months.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely lift, transfer, pivot, and support weight for program participants (including single-person and two-person weight-bearing transfers).
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, pushing wheelchairs, and stair climbing in multi-level sites.
• Capability to act and respond quickly in a physically and emotionally dynamic environment.

Why Join Us?

• Consistent Hours: Predictable schedule (8:45 AM – 3:30 PM, M–F) with weekends off!
• Meaningful Impact: Help individuals build lifelong skills and thrive within their local community.
• Supportive Environment: Work alongside a collaborative, mission-driven team.

Apply for this position

Please upload your resume and we will pre-fill your application for you.

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