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Child Development Associate Degree Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Director Childcare

Newberry, SC · On-site

$15 - $23/hr

... child care facility; (iii) An associate's degree from a state-approved college or university in early childhood education, child development, child psychology or a related field, that includes at ...

Teacher

Manchester, MD

$17.50 - $21.58/hr

Child Development Associate credential OR Associates Degree in Early Childhood,Child Development or a related field AND Two years experience related to caring for children Group Teacher for infants ...

Teacher

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17.50 - $21.58/hr

Child Development Associate credential OR Associates Degree in Early Childhood,Child Development or a related field AND Two years experience related to caring for children Group Teacher for infants ...

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Director Childcare

Newberry, SC · On-site

$15 - $23/hr

... child care facility; (iii) An associate's degree from a state-approved college or university in early childhood education, child development, child psychology or a related field, that includes at ...

Child Care Teacher

Richmond, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Early Childhood or Elementary Education Certifications (Preferred) Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential

Child Care Teacher

Richmond, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.25/hr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Early Childhood or Elementary Education Certifications (Preferred) Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential

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Child Development Associate Degree information

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$29K

$53.4K

$81K

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

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate degree 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 the highest paying job with a child development degree?

The highest paying jobs with a child development degree often include roles such as early childhood program director, child life specialist, or preschool director, which can offer salaries ranging from $50,000 to over $80,000 annually. These positions typically require additional experience, leadership skills, and sometimes certification, and they involve overseeing programs, supporting children's development, or managing staff in educational or healthcare settings.

What can you become with a child development degree?

A child development associate degree prepares individuals for careers such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, early childhood educator, or family support specialist. These roles typically involve working in daycare centers, preschools, or community programs and may require certification or licensing depending on the position and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a Child Development Associate Degree, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Child Development Associate Degree, you need a solid understanding of child growth, early education best practices, and developmentally appropriate activities, often supported by CDA certification. Familiarity with educational frameworks, child assessment tools, and classroom management software is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and creativity are essential soft skills for engaging young children and collaborating with families and colleagues. These skills ensure effective learning environments and positive developmental outcomes for children in early childhood education settings.

What is a Child Development Associate Degree?

A Child Development Associate Degree is a two-year undergraduate program that prepares students to work with young children in various educational and care settings. The program typically covers topics such as child psychology, early childhood education, curriculum planning, and child health and safety. Graduates are equipped to support the growth and development of children from infancy through early childhood, and they may qualify for roles such as preschool teacher, childcare worker, or teacher's aide. This degree also provides a foundation for further study in education or related fields.

Is a child development degree worth it?

A Child Development Associate Degree provides foundational knowledge of child growth, behavior, and learning strategies, which can improve job prospects in early childhood education and caregiving roles. It often qualifies individuals for entry-level positions and may be required for certification or licensing in some states. The degree can lead to increased earning potential and career advancement in the field of early childhood development.

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

AspectChild Development Associate DegreePreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild Development Associate (CDA) credential or degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require CDA or higher
Work EnvironmentChildcare centers, preschools, Head Start programsPreschools, daycare centers, private and public schools
Industry UsagePreparation for early childhood education rolesDirectly involved in teaching preschool children

The Child Development Associate Degree provides foundational knowledge and credentials for working with young children, often serving as a stepping stone to becoming a preschool teacher. While both roles focus on early childhood education, a CDA is typically a credential or degree that qualifies individuals for entry-level positions, whereas preschool teachers are responsible for planning and implementing educational activities for preschoolers. Having a CDA can enhance job prospects and earning potential in preschool teaching roles.

What can I do with a child development associate?

A Child Development Associate Degree qualifies individuals for entry-level positions in early childhood education, such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, or teaching assistant. It provides foundational skills in child development, behavior management, and curriculum planning, often requiring certification or licensing depending on the state or employer.

What types of career paths can I pursue after earning a Child Development Associate Degree?

With a Child Development Associate Degree, you can pursue various entry-level roles in early childhood education, such as preschool teacher, teacher’s assistant, childcare center staff, or family childcare provider. This degree often serves as a stepping stone to higher-level positions, including lead teacher or center director, especially when paired with further education or certifications. Many employers value the practical skills and foundational knowledge gained from this degree, and it can also help you specialize in areas like special education or child advocacy. Additionally, the role often involves working closely with families, educators, and specialists, providing opportunities to build strong professional networks and grow your expertise.
More about Child Development Associate Degree jobs
What cities are hiring for Child Development Associate Degree jobs? Cities with the most Child Development Associate Degree job openings:
What states have the most Child Development Associate Degree jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Development Associate Degree jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate Degree jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate Degree jobs are:
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate Degree job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,418 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Preschool Teacher Assistant

$19.58 - $21.76/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Oregon Child Development Coalition rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC):
Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC) is a nonprofit organization serving children and families across Oregon through early education and family support programs. At OCDC, our work has purpose. Every role contributes to creating stronger families, healthier communities, and brighter futures for children across Oregon.
Position Summary:
Collaborates with the teacher in providing a positive learning environment and curriculum that support children's social, emotional, physical, language and cognitive development, consistent with Head Start Performance Standards, OCDC policies and procedures, USDA, CCD Licensing regulations and/or other applicable standards.
Essential Functions:
Support the classroom teacher in maintaining a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment
Supervise children indoors and outdoors using positive guidance and behaviormanagement techniques
Assist with classroom setup, organization, cleaning, and inventory of materials and supplies
Support implementation of individualized curriculum and daily classroom activities
Help balance teacherdirected and childdirected learning experiences
Assist with observations, assessments, and maintaining children's portfolios and documentation
Communicate regularly with the teacher regarding children's health, behavior, and development
Support family engagement, including newsletters, conferences, and home visits
Promote healthy practices related to nutrition, wellness, and child development
Maintain confidentiality and follow all safety policies and procedures
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities
Maintain regular and reliable attendance
Perform other related duties as assigned
Education and Experience Requirements:
Preschool Teacher Assistant E
- $19.58-$21.76 hourly ($22.67-$23.93 hourly in Metro locations)
High School Diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria with an Oregon Registry Step less than 8

AND
Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate within 6 months from date of hire

Or
One year Oregon community college certificate2 in field with training or coursework in early childhood development WITH a focus on preschool development within 1 year from date of hire

Or
Enrolled in an associate's or bachelor's program in early childhood education or child development to be completed within 2 years from date of hire.
Preschool Teacher Assistant CE -$20.95-$23.28 hourly ($23.05-$25.61 hourly in Metro locations)
High School Diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria with an Oregon Registry Step equal to or greater than 8

AND
Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate within 6 months from date of hire

Or
One year Oregon community college certificate2 in field WITH training or coursework in early childhood development with a focus on preschool development within 1 year from date of hire

Or
Enrolled in an associate's or bachelor's program in early childhood education or child development to be completed within 2 years from date of hire.
Preschool Teacher Assistant C - $20.95-$23.28 hourly ($23.05-$25.61 hourly in Metro locations)
High School Diploma, GED, or Diploma de Educacion Secundaria

AND
Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate

Or
1 year Oregon community college certificate2 in field WITH training or coursework in early childhood development with a focus on preschool development.
Preschool Teacher Assistant A - $22.42-$24.91 hourly ($25.01- $27.40 hourly in Metro locations)
Associate's degree or higher in
Early childhood education or child development

Or
Any field and coursework equivalent3 to a major relating to early childhood education or child development WITH training or coursework in early childhood development with a focus on preschooler development and/or education.
1 PTA-E who meet the education requirements and are on Oregon Registry Step 7 or higher are paid at PG E5 starting on step A-1
2 Oregon Registry Step 8 or higher per certificate or college coursework pathway
3 Oregon Registry Step 9 or higher per degree or college coursework pathway
Metro locations include Washington County and Multnomah County sites.
Placement within the range is determined by factors such as relevant experience, skills, certifications, and internal equity.
Benefits:
OCDC offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well being, and work-life balance. Eligible employees (20+ hours/week) may receive:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan with employer contribution
Paid time off, sick leave, holidays, and paid leave programs
Employer paid life and disability coverage, with voluntary options available
Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness resources
Optional benefits including pet insurance
At OCDC, employee well being is a priority and an essential part of supporting our mission and communities.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
OCDC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. We strongly encourage individuals from historically underrepresented communities to apply.
OCDC is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation. If you need an accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please let us know.


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