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Child Development Center Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

$22.40/hr

This position is with the Child and Youth Services (CYS) Child Development Center at Anniston Army Depot. Eligible applicants who apply by 11 August may be sent first for consideration. This is a ...

Assistant Director

Phenix City, AL · On-site

$35K - $37K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Your role As an Assistant Director at Child Development Schools, you will help lead a center where children thrive, families feel at home, and educators are set up to do their best work every day.

Showing results 21-40

Child Development Center information

See Alabama salary details

$8

$19

$29

How much do child development center jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development center in Alabama is $19.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a child development center?

A Child Development Center is a facility that provides care, education, and developmental support for young children, typically from infancy through preschool age. These centers focus on promoting physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth through structured activities and play. Staffed by trained professionals, Child Development Centers offer age-appropriate curricula, nutritious meals, and a safe environment. They also support working families by offering reliable childcare during standard work hours.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child development center teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Development Center Teacher, you need a solid understanding of early childhood education, child psychology, and age-appropriate instructional strategies, often supported by a degree or certification in early childhood education. Familiarity with classroom management software, developmental assessment tools, and state licensing requirements is typically necessary. Patience, creativity, and strong communication skills help foster positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues. These skills ensure a safe, nurturing environment that supports children’s learning, growth, and well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a child development center, and how can they be addressed?

Staff in a Child Development Center often encounter challenges such as managing varying developmental needs among children, maintaining effective communication with parents, and addressing behavioral issues in a positive way. These challenges can be addressed by participating in ongoing professional development, fostering strong teamwork among staff, and utilizing evidence-based strategies for classroom management. Open communication with families and regular team meetings also help ensure that each child's needs are met while supporting a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Child Development Center vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectChild Development CenterPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild Development Associate (CDA) or equivalent, early childhood education creditsTypically CDA or early childhood education certification, sometimes a degree
Work EnvironmentChildcare facilities, early learning centers, community programsPreschools, private or public early childhood classrooms
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare providers, early childhood education industryPreschool programs, early education sector
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Child Development Centers focus on comprehensive early childhood care and development, often serving a broader age range and providing various services. Preschool Teachers primarily focus on early childhood education within classroom settings, preparing children for kindergarten. Both roles require similar credentials and are used within the early childhood education industry, but their scope and environment differ slightly.

What are popular job titles related to Child Development Center jobs in Alabama?

For Child Development Center jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Child Development Center jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development Center jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Child Development Center jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Child Development Center job openings:

Infographic showing various Child Development Center job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,537 per year, or $19 per hour.

Preschool Teacher - Northwest Early Childhood Education Center

YMCA of Greater Huntsville

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$12.01 - $20.68/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position requires the individual to perform a broad range of activities and duties needing full range of motion, including manual and finger dexterity and hand and eye coordination. The position requires the ability to lift 30 pounds, bend, stand and walk for extended periods of time. It also requires the ability to drive and occasionally requires working under stressful conditions and irregular hours.
TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS
Work involves active classroom environment.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES
  • Communicate and promote the YMCA mission, goals and objectives to employees, volunteers and the community at large.
  • Promote a safe and positive atmosphere during scheduled working hours.
  • Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
  • Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
  • Complete required abuse risk management training.
  • Adhere to policies related to boundaries with children.
  • Implement designated curriculum for age appropriate group in accordance with the policies and philosophy of the Heart of the Valley YMCA as well as DHR.
  • Demonstrate cultural competency and respect for the child's background by incorporating cultural, linguistic and familial values and beliefs into the program and lesson plans.
  • Responsible for ensuring diverse program experience for children each day.
  • Understand difference between discipline and punishment. Use positive verbal and non-verbal communication with children to build trusting and stable relationships.
  • Ensure all children's individual needs are met with dignity and respect.
  • Assure that children's equipment and supplies are arranged properly, orderly and kept in good condition.
  • Assist children as they develop appropriate habits of eating, dressing, napping and toileting.
  • Responsible for appearance, decoration and learning environment of the classrooms in accordance with policies of the YMCA and DHR.
  • Responsible for keeping the program clean and sanitary to insure health and safety of all children.
  • Keep a neat and clean appearance, in accordance with the standards set by the YMCA.
  • Attend all staff meetings and in-service provided at the Center.
  • Assist in development, training and ongoing educational requirements through orientation, training and continued education opportunities.
  • Display the highest ethical and professional behavior and standards when working with the children, parents, child development personnel, and agencies associated with the YMCA Association.
  • Model, practice and carry out the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
  • Responsible for any other duties as assigned by the Child Development Center Director.

EXPERIENCE/PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
  • Willingness to carry out the mission of the YMCA and its programs.
  • Ability to understand the concepts of mutual respect, caring, honesty, and responsibility in positive communications and interaction with children, parents and staff.
  • Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to interpret, as well as, adapt and apply guidelines and procedures.
  • Ability to work independently and utilize initiative, ability to be organized and to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
  • Work to continue personal competency through education, outside literature, seminars, etc.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/CERTIFICATIONS
  • Be at least 19 years of age or older.
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED.
  • Ability to plan, organize and implement program activities.
  • Excellent skills in teaching, communication, and human relations.

PERSONAL QUALITIES
  • Able to work as a team leader and builder/member.
  • Has an educator presence in all situations.
  • Able to work with diverse populations.
  • Professional appearance and behavior.
  • Able to prioritize and meet deadlines.
  • Able to research, analyze and solve problems.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.
  • Positive attitude.
  • Adhere to drug free/tobacco free workplace policy.
  • Desire to work in a YMCA setting in accordance with the YMCA mission.
  • Has strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Must pass a medical examination including TB Risk Assessment.
  • Must pass criminal records check and pre-employment drug screen.