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Child Development Associate Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Leads and guides staff to complete the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential process as required for some positions. May teach or provide access to CDA class content. * Partners closely with ...

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Child Development Associate information

See Missouri salary details

$27.2K

$50.1K

$76K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Missouri is $50,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,900.00 and $56,300.00 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 Missouri? The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Missouri are:
What are popular job titles related to Child Development Associate jobs in Missouri? For Child Development Associate jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Child Development Associate job openings:
CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

University of Missouri

Columbia, MO • On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


University Of Missouri rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

336th of 541 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Hiring Department
College of Education and Human Development - Adventure Club
Job Description
Site Responsibilities
  • Assisting the Site Facilitator in the day-to-day operation of the program, completing paperwork, planning activities and special events by doing the following:
  • Assist with the supervision of Site Assistants.
  • Perform duties of Site Facilitator during absences.
  • Sub at other sites upon request, potentially twice per week or during extended absences.
  • Develop and foster relationships with children and families, ensure families have received & abide by Family Handbook policies. Enforce and follow up on policy violations/infractions.
  • Provide and model effective positive and developmentally appropriate discipline techniques.
  • Address behavioral concerns consistently and promptly. Document and discuss behaviors with Site Facilitator and guardians.
  • With guidance from supervisor, facilitate difficult conversations with children, staff, families, school personnel, etc. regarding a variety of topics to include behavioral concerns, dismissals, staff conflicts or performance, and policy infractions.
  • Mediate conflicts and disputes among children, staff, and families in a fair and impartial manner. Promote positive communication and cooperation to resolve issues effectively.
  • Accurately document conversations, injuries, behavior issues, staff issues, etc., and outcomes in accordance with policies and procedures.
  • Adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines when managing sensitive information related to children, staff, and families.
  • Plan, develop and execute activities and projects that support program schedule and curriculum. Recommend materials and equipment for purchase.
  • Participate in Jumpstart Our Learning Time (JOLT) at site by providing educational opportunities to children.
  • Support and implement program policies and procedures while maintaining licensing program, and subsidy standards.
  • Work all scheduled Columbia Public Schools early release days and Adventure Club's Full-Day Programs.
  • Attend bi-weekly site staff meetings.

Program Coordinator Assistant Responsibilities
  • Complete projects and assignments delegated by Administrative Staff, which may include:
  • Data entry, filing, and other assistance for licensing, subsidy, quality improvement, and/or grant related paperwork etc.
  • Contacting field trip venues and guest speakers.
  • Assist with organization and facilitation of staff training. May be asked to teach throughout the year as well.
  • Updating program materials and assist with marketing and social media.
  • Assist with full day and summer programming planning.
  • Assisting with purchasing and restock of supplies.
  • Curriculum development, organization, and maintenance.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Office Responsibilities
  • Participate in an assigned committee.
  • Attend and participate in weekly full-time staff meetings.
  • Assist office staff upon request: covering phones, assisting with paperwork, filing, data entry, etc.
  • Assist with special events throughout the semester.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Summer Programming
  • Adventure Club operates before and after school summer programs in coordination with CPS's summer school and 4-6 weeks of full day summer camp.
  • Childcare Assistants are expected to work the before and after school summer program and several weeks of the full day summer camp.
  • Childcare Assistants may serve as Site Facilitator at a program during the summer at the CCA rate of pay.

Additional Duties
  • Facilitate difficult conversations with children, staff, families, school personnel, etc. regarding a variety of topics to include behavioral concerns, dismissals, staff conflicts or performance, and policy infractions.
  • Mediate conflicts and disputes among children, staff, and families in a fair and impartial manner. Promote positive communication and cooperation to resolve issues effectively.
  • Accurately document conversations, injuries, behavior issues, staff issues, etc., and outcomes in accordance with policies and procedures.
  • Adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines when managing sensitive information related to children, staff, and families.
  • Attendance at state and national conferences as budget and staffing allows.
  • Communicate with Office Administration: Each staff determines when he/she needs to talk with the Director, Associate Director, Program Coordinators, or Business Manager. Obvious reasons (not limited to but could include): serious behavior problems with children, uncooperative staff, questions about school policies or conflict with school staff, and upset parents. The Administrative Staff maintains an open-door policy; however, staff are expected to come with suggestions & ideas for possible solutions after using other available resources (i.e., peers, mentors, problem-solving strategies, etc.).
  • Compliance with Licensing & Subsidy Regulations.
  • Other duties to be assigned.

Shift
  • 40 hours, Monday - Friday, flexing weekly schedule to meet responsibilities.
  • Provide 22+ hours of on-site supervision from 6:40 - 8:05 AM and 3:00 - 5:45 PM.
  • Five to seven hours of office work and projects for Site Facilitator.
  • Ten-twelve hours of projects and tasks delegated by Program Coordinator, meetings, and events.
  • Flexible work schedule between site shifts and meetings.
  • Occasional evening and weekends worked for trainings and special events.

Minimum Qualifications
An Associate's Degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and some experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary
Preferred Qualifications
  • Six months of experience working with and supervising children
  • Adequate experience with computer programs such as Microsoft Office and Teams
  • The ability to be both tactful and flexible, along with the use of good judgment and utilizing common sense when making decisions involving the Adventure Club program.
  • At least twelve hours of child related coursework.

Anticipated Hiring Range
Salary Ramge: $19.00-$22.00 per hour, dependent upon qualifications
Grade: GGS-5
University title: Child Development Associate
Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.
New employees may qualify for a special one-time incentive payment of up to $1,500 by agreeing to remain employed by the University during a two-year period. If the employee does not remain employed by the University through the end of the two-year period because employee voluntarily resigns or is terminated by the University for cause, the employee would agree the hiring incentive shall be returned following a schedule based on time worked.
Other Information
  • A completed TB Risk Assessment Form & Physical Form prior to employment.
  • If hired, the Family Care Safety Registry forms must be immediately submitted, along with two FBI background checks. If applicant has lived out of state, additional paperwork may be required and would be at the expense of the employee.
  • Ability to communicate electronically after hours when needed (via text or phone). It is understood that compensation is sufficient to cover the cost of the services. The University does not reimburse for cell phone service charges.
  • CPR and First Aid Training: Childcare Assistants are required to obtain CPR & 1 st Aid certification. Childcare Assistants are required to become Certified CPR & 1 st Aid Instructors during the school year and teach a few times each semester. Both are provided by Adventure Club
  • Childcare Assistant must complete at least 12 hours of approved professional development hours per year.
  • Quality training opportunities and professional development

Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits .
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer .
To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

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About University of Missouri

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Missouri, based in Columbia, MO, US; is a public, land-grant research institution with an established reputation in academic excellence, industry relevance, and societal impact. Founded in 1839, it was the first public university located west of the Mississippi River. The institution spans various industries in the education sector with its multitude of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across various disciplines. The University's mission is centered on improving lives, enhancing communities, advancing health, and fostering excellence through its teaching, research, and engagement activities. U-M has some significant achievements under its belt including pioneering the world's first school of journalism and being one of the only six public universities in the US that accommodates medicine, veterinary medicine, and law in one campus.

Industry

Education

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, MO, US

Year founded

1839

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