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Child Development Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Minnesota Valley Action Council

Ass't. Teacher

Mankato, MN · On-site

$17.96 - $18.74/hr

Applicant must have a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Early Childhood Education, an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Early Childhood Education, a Center-Based Child Development Associate (CDA ...

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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 Jul 13, 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 can I do with a child development associate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential qualifies individuals to work as early childhood educators, preschool teachers, or childcare providers. With this credential, you can work in daycare centers, preschools, or early intervention programs, often requiring knowledge of child development principles and basic caregiving skills.

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.

Do you get paid more if you have a CDA?

Child Development Associates (CDAs) are often valued in early childhood education roles, and having a CDA can lead to higher pay or increased job opportunities compared to those without certification. Many employers recognize the CDA as a credential that demonstrates specialized skills and commitment, which can result in higher wages or salary increases. However, actual pay differences vary by employer, location, and experience.

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.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying roles in child development often include child development director, pediatric healthcare administrator, or specialized clinical psychologist, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions typically involve leadership, policy development, or clinical expertise and can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level child care or teaching roles.

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 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 Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,318 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Head Start Substitute

Head Start Substitute

West Central Minnesota Communities Action

Elbow Lake, MN • On-site

$17.54/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description
PRIMARY FUNCTIONS
  • Assist and support the Family Education Specialist in lesson planning and implementation and assist the family in its own efforts to improve the condition and quality of family life.
  • Will act as Family Education Specialist in absence/partnership with the Family Education Specialist.

AGENCY EXPECTATIONS
  • Adhere to Agency and Department policies and procedures.
  • Act as a role model within and outside the Agency.
  • Provide friendly, responsive service to the public, community organizations, and to those we serve.
  • With a respectful and positive attitude, work with low-income individuals and families with diverse backgrounds.
  • Support, develop, and maintain productive relationships required to carry out job activities.
  • Demonstrate flexible and efficient time management.
  • Maintain the security and confidentiality of all records and interpersonal interactions.
  • Serve as an advocate.
  • Work effectively and cooperatively with community partners, co-workers, and volunteers.
  • Participate in Agency-wide and program events.
  • Communicate with Human Resources (HR) on topics/policies that you may need training on/have questions about such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), expectations of being a seasonal employee, holiday pay, etc.
  • Notify Human Resources of any personal information changes such as name, address, phone number, etc.
  • Check email daily and promptly respond to messages.
  • Enter hours and work codes on your time sheet at the end of each day worked.

QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum
  • Must be 18 years of age with high school diploma or equivalency with the expectation to obtain a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) within 2 years of hire.
  • Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or AA in Early Childhood Education
  • Interest and experience in working with young children.
  • Ability to exercise patience and understanding when working with children.
  • Ability to follow instructions, good oral communication skills.
  • Meet physical abilities: must be able to lift 50 lbs.; and daily kneeling, stooping, bending, and sitting on the floor to attend to children's needs.
  • Proof of valid driver's license and current/adequate vehicle insurance coverage.

Preferred
  • General knowledge of the Head Start program.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and working with children with disabilities.
  • Experience of working on a team and taking direction from a Supervisor.

REPORTING TO THIS POSITION ARE:
None
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  1. Welcome and support families in their participation of Head Start.
  2. Act as Family Education Specialist in absence of or in partnership with the Family Education Specialist.
  3. Work directly with children in context of the program plan and curriculum:
  4. Assist with daily arrival and departure of children.
  5. Engage children in conversation and family style meals during mealtimes.
  6. Participate in play activities.
  7. As member of center team, participate in center lesson planning and carry out plans and center operations as instructed by your Supervisor.
  8. Observe and record children's behavior and development to make recommendations on meeting children's individual needs at Team meetings. Enter weekly observations into Teaching Strategies Gold for assessment purposes.
  9. Ensure safety of Head Start children by implementing Active Supervision, reporting injuries/
    illnesses/incidents (by completing a report in ChildPlus if instructed), and reporting child abuse
    and neglect.
  10. Assist with the preparation of indoor and outdoor space for planned activities including supplies and materials ensuring the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment.
  11. Inspect, clean, and monitor indoor and outdoor space.
  12. Provide accurate meal counts and monitor food safety.
  13. Assist with Head Start fire and tornado drills and other emergency drills per Head Start sites.
  14. Clean tables and sanitize toys.
  15. Complete Daily Health and Safety checks and environmental safety checklists.
  16. Assist with First Aid kit inventory.
  17. Assist with onsite routine screenings of children's hearing/vision and heights/weights.
  18. Participate in all required trainings including First Aid and Pediatric CPR which are necessary for
    certification/licensure and Professional Development facilitated by WCMCA. Maintain a current
    status of all required certifications.
  19. Keep direct Supervisor informed of all problems, unusual or extraordinary matters of significance coming to his/her attention, so that prompt corrective action can be taken as needed.
  20. Keep direct Supervisor informed of CDA progress and renewal.
  21. Demonstrate the ability to work within a team of people to promote a positive workplace culture.
  22. All other duties as assigned, including participation in Agency and program committees.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITY SPECIFICATIONS
Physical demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; each with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50
  • Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate-to-high.

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