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Child Development Associate Jobs in Durant, OK (NOW HIRING)

Child Development Associate information

See Durant, OK salary details

$23.5K

$43.2K

$65.5K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Durant, OK is $43,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,400.00 and $48,500.00 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 cities near Durant, OK are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs?

Cities near Durant, OK with the most Child Development Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Child Development Associate job openings in Durant, OK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,220 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Child Care Teacher Assistant

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Durant, OK • On-site

$16.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Choctaw Nation Of Oklahoma rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 105 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

697th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


Monday - Friday, variable day shifts available between the hours of 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Full Time | $16.35/hr.
Weekends and holidays off
Location: Durant Child Development Center I & II
Job Summary: Responsible for assisting the classroom teacher with the implementation of the educational program. You will report to the Center Manager.
Primary Tasks:
  • You will monitor the safety and manage behavior of children in classroom, bus, playground.
  • Help set up the environment (indoor/outdoor for the activities of the day.
  • Help prepare and teach Weekly Planning Form based on children's individual developmental needs.
  • You will observe and record behaviors of children to assist the teacher in the identification of each child's strengths and growth areas.
  • Attend parent meetings, home visits, and parent/teacher conferences.
  • Assist children during meals.
  • Perform other responsibilities as may be assigned.

Requirements:
  • Maintain a commercial driver's license with a passenger endorsement and a School Bus Driving Certificate.
  • Must have knowledge and ability to work with appropriate software applications
  • Must have the ability to work with children, remain calm, patient in case of emergency situations and difficult situations
  • Perform the physical requirements of the job that may include lifting up to 55 pounds, frequent standing, walking.
  • 1+ years of experience working with children

Responsibilities
You will monitor the safety and manage behavior of children in classroom, bus, playground.Help set up the environment (indoor/outdoor for the activities of the day.Help prepare and teach Weekly Planning Form based on children's individual developmental needs.You will observe and record behaviors of children to assist the teacher in the identification of each child's strengths and growth areas.Attend parent meetings, home visits, and parent/teacher conferences.Assist children during meals.Perform other responsibilities as may be assigned.
Qualifications
Maintain a commercial driver's license with a passenger endorsement and a School Bus Driving Certificate.Must have knowledge and ability to work with appropriate software applicationsMust have the ability to work with children, remain calm, patient in case of emergency situations and difficult situationsPerform the physical requirements of the job that may include lifting up to 55 pounds, frequent standing, walking.1+ years of experience working with children
About Us
About the Choctaw Nation
The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian nation in the United States, with over 200,000 tribal members and more than 11,000 employees. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, historic boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma. The Choctaw Nation's vision, "Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture," is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Benefits
  • Free gym membership
  • Free access to employee health clinic
  • Free lunch for casino & resort associates
  • Earned wages access once per week for hourly Associates
  • Pet insurance
  • Paid vacation / sick time
  • Medical / Dental / Vision
  • 401(K) with company match
  • College tuition reimbursement
  • Short-term disability, long-term disability, and family leave
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee prescription program
  • CNO Paid Life Insurance
  • Teladoc
  • On Site Dental Clinics (Jet Dental)
  • On Site Mammogram Services
  • Free diabetes and hypertension monitoring benefit (Livongo)
  • Accolade- Concierge Benefits Program
  • Wellness Program that equals savings on health insurance cost (Virgin Pulse)
  • Maternity Care Program
  • (Benefits provided by the Choctaw Nation are based on employment classification)

CNO was selected as a winner in both HRDUS' and Forbes' 2022 "Employer of Choice" competitions:
  • Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma received recognition as one of six Best Places to Work in the United States as selected by HRDUS
  • Choctaw Casinos & Resorts received recognition from Forbes as a Best Employer for Diversity in the Travel & Leisure category.
  • Forbes also recognized the Choctaw Casino and Resorts as one of America's Best Employers for New Graduates.

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Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma logo

About Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, based in Durant, OK, US, is a federally recognized Native American tribe with a strong tribal government. With a community totaling over 200,000 members spread across the United States, the Nation’s industry range is expansive, encompassing healthcare, education, and social services as well as commercial enterprises such as gaming, hospitality, manufacturing, retail, and more. Established in 1834 after the forced relocation known as the Trail of Tears, the Choctaw Nation has a rich history guided by its mission to enhance the lives of all members through opportunities designed to develop healthy, successful, and productive lifestyles.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durant, OK, US

Year founded

2015

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