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Child Development Associate Certificate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Child Development Associate Certificate information

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$29K

$53.4K

$81K

How much do child development associate certificate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate certificate in the United States is $53,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate is a nationally recognized credential in early childhood education. It demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge, skills, and abilities to work with young children and support their development. The CDA is often required for childcare positions in preschools, Head Start programs, and daycare centers. Earning this certificate involves completing coursework, gaining hands-on experience, and passing an assessment process. The credential helps professionals advance their careers and improve the quality of care for children.

What are some common challenges Child Development Associates face when working with young children in a classroom setting?

Child Development Associates (CDAs) often encounter challenges such as managing diverse behaviors among children, balancing the needs of individual students with group activities, and maintaining effective communication with parents and guardians. Adapting lesson plans to accommodate children with varying developmental levels and backgrounds is also a frequent challenge. To address these, CDAs regularly collaborate with other educators and support staff, participate in ongoing professional development, and use creative problem-solving to foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Development Associate (CDA), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Development Associate, you need a solid understanding of early childhood education principles, child safety, and age-appropriate instructional strategies, typically supported by earning a CDA credential. Familiarity with classroom management tools, early learning assessment systems, and ongoing professional development is expected. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to build positive relationships with children and families are crucial soft skills. These skills and qualifications ensure that children receive high-quality care and education in a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.

What is the difference between Child Development Associate Certificate vs Preschool Teacher?

CriteriaChild Development Associate CertificatePreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsCDAs typically require a CDA credential, which involves coursework, experience, and a background check.Preschool teachers often need a high school diploma or associate degree, with some states requiring a CDA or early childhood certification.
Work EnvironmentChildcare centers, preschools, Head Start programs, and home-based settings.Preschools, daycare centers, and early childhood education programs.
Employer & Industry UsageUsed as an entry-level credential for early childhood assistants and aides.Used for teaching roles in early childhood education settings.

The Child Development Associate Certificate is a credential that qualifies individuals for entry-level roles supporting young children's development, often as aides or assistants. A preschool teacher typically has more formal education and is responsible for planning and leading classroom activities. While both roles work in early childhood settings, the CDA focuses on foundational skills and support roles, whereas preschool teachers have more instructional responsibilities.

What can I do with my child development associate certificate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate qualifies individuals to work as early childhood educators, preschool teachers, or childcare providers. It demonstrates competency in child development and caregiving skills, often required for employment in preschools, daycare centers, and Head Start programs. The certification can also lead to career advancement and higher earning potential in early childhood education settings.

What jobs can you get with a child development associate certificate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate qualifies individuals for roles such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, or early childhood educator. These positions typically involve working with young children in daycare centers, preschools, or early learning programs and often require knowledge of child development and classroom management.
More about Child Development Associate Certificate jobs

What states have the most Child Development Associate Certificate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Child Development Associate Certificate jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate Certificate jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate Certificate jobs are:

Infographic showing various Child Development Associate Certificate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,418 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Child Development Associate

Pinellas County Schools

Saint Petersburg, FL • On-site

$17.98/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Pinellas County Schools rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

430th of 635 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Noninstructional/Support - Position - CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOC (CDA)
Job Number 3700273140
Start Date 08/03/2026
Open Date 08/10/2026
Closing Date 08/24/2026
# of Jobs 1
Hours per Day 7
Work Hours 7am to 2:30 pm
Temporary Position No
Calendar Days 10-month (196 days)
Salary
For Salary Schedule, clickHERE. $17.9806
Pay Grade D
Pay Grade 09
Minimum Educational Requirements Other - Please see job description for specific requirements.
Contract Type Full-Time
Reports to PRINCIPAL
Contact Person's Name Kristen Geer Sulte
Contact Person's Email sultek@pcsb.org
Job Description.
ClickHERE. View Attachment
Additional Job Information
QUALIFICATIONS:
In a Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) Program:
Graduation from high school or possession of a GED. Holds a current Child Development Associate (CDA) or Child
Development Associate Credential or a credential approved by the Department of Children and Family Services as
being equivalent to or greater than the Child Development Associate Credential (CDAE), plus one (1) year of
experience in working with pre-school or elementary school aged children. Completion of the Florida Voluntary
Prekindergarten Education Standards and Emergent Literacy Training.

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About Pinellas County Schools

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The primary goal of the District is to ensure that each student achieves at the highest possible level. Education is to be provided in a manner that does not discriminate or cause harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, or social and family background. In order for this to be accomplished every school staff member will strive to create a positive, safe environment that encourages and supports student success. Underlying causes for misbehavior will be explored, and when possible, positive redirection will occur and acceptable alternative behaviors will be taught. Such redirection may involve a collaborative effort of parents, school, and community.

Industry

Education

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Largo, FL, US

Year founded

1912

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