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Child Development Associate Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

$35.11 - $42.78/hr

Develops programs that encourage and support the pursuit of continuing higher education by documenting requirements for completion of the Child Development Associate (CDA) or the Military School-Age ...

The Corporate Development Associate is involved with all facets of the M&A diligence and ... Paid bonding leave when a new child joins your family * Access to on-demand mental health resources

Substitute Teacher

Wilton, ME ยท On-site

$15.35/hr

We also offer an Apprenticeship Program that can support you in obtaining your Child Development Associate certificate while also working as a Substitute with technology, financial assistance, and ...

Substitute Teacher

Jay, ME ยท On-site

$15.35/hr

We also offer an Apprenticeship Program that can support you in obtaining your Child Development Associate certificate while also working as a Substitute with technology, financial assistance, and ...

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Child Development Associate information

See Maine salary details

$28.1K

$51.7K

$78.4K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Maine is $51,719.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $58,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Child Development Associate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) is a credentialed early childhood educator who has demonstrated the ability to effectively work with young children and their families. The CDA credential is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition and is recognized nationally as a mark of competence in the field of early childhood education. Earning a CDA involves completing coursework, gaining work experience, and passing an assessment in one of several settings, such as preschool, infant/toddler, or family child care. CDAs play an important role in supporting the development, learning, and well-being of children from birth to age five.

How does a Child Development Associate typically collaborate with lead teachers and other staff in early childhood education settings?

Child Development Associates (CDAs) work closely with lead teachers and other staff to support classroom activities, implement lesson plans, and ensure a safe, nurturing environment for children. They often assist in observing children's progress, communicating with parents, and adapting activities to meet individual needs. Effective collaboration involves participating in team meetings, sharing observations, and contributing ideas to enhance the learning experience. This teamwork helps create a cohesive, supportive environment that benefits both children and staff.

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

To thrive as a Child Development Associate, you need a foundational understanding of early childhood development, child safety, and age-appropriate teaching methods, typically demonstrated by earning a CDA credential. Familiarity with classroom management software, child assessment tools, and health and safety regulations is often required. Strong communication, patience, and creativity are critical soft skills for building relationships with children and families. These skills and qualifications ensure the delivery of high-quality early childhood education and foster a safe, supportive learning environment.

Is it worth getting a child development associate certification?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) certification can enhance job prospects and demonstrate competence in early childhood education. It is often required or preferred by employers and involves completing coursework, a portfolio, and a supervised work experience, which can lead to higher earning potential and career advancement in the field.

What kind of jobs can I get with a Child Development Associate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential qualifies individuals for roles such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, early childhood educator, or daycare director. These jobs typically involve working with young children in educational or care settings and often require knowledge of child development principles and safety standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Maine?

The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Maine are:

What are popular job titles related to Child Development Associate jobs in Maine?

For Child Development Associate jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Maine are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs?

Cities in Maine with the most Child Development Associate job openings:

Full-Time Assistant Child Care Teacher

Rockport, ME โ€ข On-site

Penobscot Bay YMCA
Food, Shelters and Community Relief Servicesย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Make a Difference Every Single Day
Do you believe childhood should be filled with curiosity, creativity, laughter, and discovery? Are you the kind of person who loves getting down on the floor to build towers, read stories, explore nature, make art, and celebrate life's little victories?
If so, we'd love to meet you.
The Penobscot Bay YMCA is looking for a Full-Time Assistant Child Care Teacher to join our amazing early childhood team in Rockport. Every day you'll help children build confidence, learn new skills, and discover the world around them, all while working alongside a supportive team that believes what you do truly matters.
Early childhood teachers don't just care for children, they shape futures. We believe every child deserves a strong start, and we're looking for caring, energetic people who want to be part of that mission.
? $240+ Monthly State of Maine Child Care Workforce Stipend (currently available in addition to your hourly wage)
? Monday-Friday Schedule
Enjoy your evenings and weekends with family and friends-no nights, weekends, or holiday shifts.
What You'll Do:
  • Inspire curiosity through hands-on learning and play.
  • Help children learn, grow, and build confidence.
  • Support engaging classroom activities alongside experienced Lead Teachers.
  • Encourage creativity, kindness, and positive social interactions.
  • Build meaningful relationships with children and their families.
  • Create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
Why You'll Love Working at the Penobscot Bay YMCA:
A career with purpose where your work truly matters.
Competitive pay plus a $240+/month State of Maine workforce stipend.
Generous Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays.
Health, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability Insurance.
50% Discount on YMCA Child Care Programs.
20% Discount on YMCA Programs.
FREE YMCA Family Membership (a $960 annual value!).
Retirement plan with a generous YMCA employer contribution after two years.
Every child deserves someone who believes in them.
If you're ready to make a lasting impact while working with a team that values compassion, creativity, and community, we'd love to welcome you to the Penobscot Bay YMCA family.
Apply today and help shape tomorrow - one child at a time.
Requirements
Who We're Looking For:
You don't have to know everything on day one, but you should bring a genuine passion for working with children, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn and grow. The ideal candidate will have:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • A commitment to providing safe, nurturing, and compassionate care
  • A history of responsible, ethical, and professional conduct
  • CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required; training will be provided for candidates who are able to successfully complete the certification course.
  • Child Abuse Prevention Training within 30 days of hire
  • Previous experience working with children in an early childhood or developmental setting preferred
  • A willingness to work toward a Child Development Associate (CDA) or Infant/Toddler Credential
  • The ability to create engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences
  • Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds is a plus
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers
  • A commitment to creating an inclusive environment and supporting children of all abilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
Working with young children is active, energetic, and rewarding! This position requires someone who is comfortable participating in all aspects of a busy early childhood classroom.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
  • Lift and carry up to 40 pounds multiple times throughout the day
  • Frequently bend, kneel, twist, and move about the classroom
  • Participate in indoor and outdoor activities during all seasons
  • See and hear well enough to supervise children and respond to their needs
  • Safely intervene when necessary to protect the well-being of children
  • Actively lead and participate in classroom activities, games, and learning experiences

Essential Functions:
As an Assistant Child Care Teacher, you'll play an important role in creating a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Responsibilities include:
  • Provide active supervision of children at all times to ensure a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment.
  • Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing age-appropriate educational activities that encourage learning through play.
  • Foster positive relationships with children by encouraging curiosity, creativity, confidence, and respectful interactions.
  • Support children with guidance, encouragement, and redirection using positive behavior management techniques.
  • Observe children's growth and development and assist with ongoing documentation and developmental assessments.
  • Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom that meets YMCA, DHHS licensing, and NAEYC Accreditation Standards.
  • Follow all YMCA policies, licensing regulations, health and safety procedures, and ADA accommodation requirements.
  • Build positive, professional relationships with families while maintaining open and respectful communication.
  • Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and ongoing professional development.
  • Assist with classroom housekeeping, daily routines, meal service, transitions, and other program responsibilities.
  • Support the overall success of the Child Care program by performing other related duties as assigned.

As an Assistant Child Care Teacher, you'll play an important role in creating a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Responsibilities include:
  • Provide active supervision of children at all times to ensure a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment.
  • Assist the Lead Teacher in planning and implementing age-appropriate educational activities that encourage learning through play.
  • Foster positive relationships with children by encouraging curiosity, creativity, confidence, and respectful interactions.
  • Support children with guidance, encouragement, and redirection using positive behavior management techniques.
  • Observe children's growth and development and assist with ongoing documentation and developmental assessments.
  • Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming classroom that meets YMCA, DHHS licensing, and NAEYC Accreditation Standards.
  • Follow all YMCA policies, licensing regulations, health and safety procedures, and ADA accommodation requirements.
  • Build positive, professional relationships with families while maintaining open and respectful communication.
  • Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and ongoing professional development.
  • Assist with classroom housekeeping, daily routines, meal service, transitions, and other program responsibilities.
  • Support the overall success of the Child Care program by performing other related duties as assigned.

Salary Description
$18-$22/hour, depending on experience