Developmental Specialist

Job Summary

At Joya Child & Family Development you will be working alongside inspiring, passionate, and supportive team members.  The ideal candidate will display and promote the shared values of Compassion, Hope, Inclusion, Learning and Dedication with fellow employees, community partners, children, and families.  

This position delivers individualized, developmentally appropriate intervention using a play-based, family-centered, and coaching-focused approach. Services are designed to promote the child’s acquisition of skills across developmental domains while supporting caregivers to embed learning opportunities within everyday routines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Direct Intervention & Instruction

• Design and implement play-based, individualized learning environments and activities


• Provide services in natural environments


• Utilize evidence-based early intervention practices


• Adapt materials and routines


• Facilitate individual and small group activities


• Construct or adapt equipment

Family Engagement & Support

• Partner with families and caregivers


• Provide education, coaching, and support


• Model strategies to strengthen caregiver-child interaction


• Respect family culture and values

Assessment & IFSP Development

• Conduct developmental evaluations


• Collaborate on IFSP development and monitoring


• Write measurable outcomes

 Collaboration & Team-Based Services

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary professionals


• Participate in team meetings and IFSP meetings

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete accurate documentation


• Maintain HIPAA and FERPA compliance


• Participate in Medicaid Administrative Claiming

Supervisory Responsibility:

• None (may provide guidance to interns, volunteers, or support staff)

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of early childhood development


• Strong communication and collaboration skills


• Cultural responsiveness


• Organizational and documentation skills

Education, Certifications and Background Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education; with a strong emphasis and/or work experience in early childhood special education.


• Have or be able to obtain ESIT Developmental Specialist credential within 6 months of hire


• One to two years’ experience working with preschool children with developmental disabilities or delays desired.


• Valid driver's license and vehicle with proof of insurance.


• B Test, proof of TDap Immunization, and Hepatitis B vaccinations.


• FBI Background clearance

Environmental Factors:

• Ability to lift or carry up to 40 pounds


• Indoors, sedentary up to 7 hours/day sitting or standing and up to 4 hours/day keyboarding.


• Ability to navigate client sites (unpaved walkways, stairs, narrow hallways, ) on a regular basis.


• Ability to bend, twist, stoop on a regular