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Child Development Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Child Life Assistant

Rochester, MN · On-site

$22.73 - $32.26/hr

Associate degree in Child Development, Child and Family Studies, or related field. Minimum one year professional experience working with children and families. Experience working with volunteers.

Preschool Teacher

North Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

... child development and 480 hours of experience OR Associate's degree in early childhood education or child development including 18 semester hours in early childhood education or child development and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Child Development Associate information

See Minnesota salary details

$28.4K

$52.3K

$79.3K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Minnesota is $52,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $58,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential can lead to early childhood education roles that may pay around $10,000 per month with experience and additional certifications. High-level positions in childcare centers or private settings, especially with specialized skills or ownership, can also reach this income level without a traditional degree.

What is a Child Development Associate (CDA)?

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.

What can I do with an associate in child development?

An associate degree in child development prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, or early childhood assistant. It provides foundational knowledge of child growth, development, and learning, often requiring certification or licensing for certain positions. This degree can also serve as a stepping stone toward further education or specialized roles in early childhood education settings.

Is a child development associate worth it?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential can enhance job prospects and earning potential in early childhood education by demonstrating specialized skills and knowledge. It often requires completing training hours and a portfolio review, making it a valuable credential for those seeking to work in licensed childcare settings or advance their careers. However, the overall value depends on individual career goals and the specific requirements of employers in the field.

How do Child Development Associates 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.

What kind of jobs can I get with a CDA?

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 and safety standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Child Development Associate jobs in Minnesota? For Child Development Associate jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Child Development Associate job openings:
Child Life Assistant

Child Life Assistant

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

$22.73 - $32.26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 680 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 873 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of this position are planning and implementing activities for the physical, emotional, social and cognitive development of pediatric patients during hospitalization and in the outpatient setting; monitoring and maintaining a safe and healing environment, including supply maintenance and management; overseeing pediatric activity rooms; orienting and supervising volunteers; and partnering with community members to enhance program delivery.


Qualifications

Preferred candidates will demonstrate technical expertise to support Mayo Clinic Channel closed-circuit television programming, including creating short promotional videos, enhancing patient-facing content, and partnering with pediatrics patients on technology-based initiatives.

Associate degree in Child Development, Child and Family Studies, or related field. Minimum one year professional experience working with children and families. 
Experience working with volunteers. Experience with group planning and program development. Capable of bending, lifting, standing; demonstrated physical ability to perform necessary tasks. Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Maintains current Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers from one of the following programs: American Heart Association, American Red Cross, or Military Training Network. Child Development Associate (CDA) credential through the Council for Professional Recognition required within one year of hire.


Exemption Status
Nonexempt
Compensation Detail
Compensation range is $22.73 -$32.26 / hour
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
80
Schedule Details
Monday - Friday; 8-4:30
Weekend Schedule
No weekends
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the 'EOE is the Law'.  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Recruiter
Karlie VanKruiningenQualifications:

Preferred candidates will demonstrate technical expertise to support Mayo Clinic Channel closed-circuit television programming, including creating short promotional videos, enhancing patient-facing content, and partnering with pediatrics patients on technology-based initiatives.

Associate degree in Child Development, Child and Family Studies, or related field. Minimum one year professional experience working with children and families. 
Experience working with volunteers. Experience with group planning and program development. Capable of bending, lifting, standing; demonstrated physical ability to perform necessary tasks. Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Maintains current Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers from one of the following programs: American Heart Association, American Red Cross, or Military Training Network. Child Development Associate (CDA) credential through the Council for Professional Recognition required within one year of hire.


What Mayo Clinic employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Mayo Clinic logo

About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919