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Child Development Associate Jobs in Gulfport, MS

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Child Development Associate information

See Gulfport, MS salary details

$28.9K

$53.1K

$80.6K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Gulfport, MS is $53,147.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $59,700.00 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 popular job titles related to Child Development Associate jobs in Gulfport, MS?

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

What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate jobs in Gulfport, MS look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate jobs in Gulfport, MS are:

What cities near Gulfport, MS are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs?

Cities near Gulfport, MS with the most Child Development Associate job openings:

Child Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate job openings in Gulfport, MS 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 $53,147 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Child and Youth Program Leader

CNIC Careers

Gulfport, MS

$24.19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Commander, Navy Installations Command rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

Incumbent provides appropriate specialized developmental care and instruction for children and youth ranging in age from 6 weeks to 18 years in one or more CY programs. This includes the provision of guidance, assistance, and mentoring for the CY Program Assistants. The incumbent works under the direction of the supervisor or other qualified higher graded employee, who provides guidance on scope of assignments and assistance on the more complex, nonroutine problems encountered.Qualifications:

Resumes must include information which demonstrates experience and knowledge, skills, and ability (KSAs) as they relate to this position. Applicants are encouraged to be clear and specific when describing their experience level and KSAs.

A qualified candidate possesses the following:

  • Knowledge of developmentally appropriate programs designed to meet the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive needs of children and youth from 6 weeks to 18 years of age.
  • Knowledge of child and youth development principles, practices, and techniques.
  • Skills to apply Federal and State laws governing the detection and prevention of child abuse and/or neglect.
  • Skill in understanding interests and motivation of individuals and groups in a CYP environment.
  • Skill in program planning, organizing, and employee scheduling.
  • Skills to provide leadership, mentoring, and guidance to CY Program
  • Ability to identify and respond to emergency situations.
  • Ability to train employees on variety of issues to include recognition and identification of childhood illnesses and child abuse, etc.
  • Ability to develop curriculum outlines and lesson plans/guides.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing and possess strong interpersonal skills.
  • One (1) year of experience at the CY-02 (GSE-04) level or equivalent displaying knowledge of and competency in developmentally appropriate programming for children and youth.
Education:Completion of DOD Standardized Module Training AND 12 months Experience at the CY-II (GSE-04) Level.
OR
Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or Military School-Age (MSA) credential AND 12 months Experience at the CY-II (GSE-04) Level.
OR
A minimum of a 2-year degree in Youth Development, Child Development or a related field, which can include Recreation, Youth Recreation, Physical Education, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, Social Work, Home Economics with an emphasis in Human Development, or other degrees as appropriate AND 12 months Experience at the CY-II (GSE-04) Level.
**Must provide a copy of your H.S. Diploma, GED, or College Transcripts (showing degree awarded/conferred) when you apply.**
Note: If your degree has not been awarded and/or you possess certificates of completion for DoD approved competency-based training courses, and/or a valid CDA/MSA credential(s), you MUST also provide a copy of your HS Diploma or equivalent.Employment Type: OTHER

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