1

Child Development Center Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Center Director

Glenview, IL · On-site

$60K - $110K/yr

Join us at Children's Land as our new Early Childhood Center Director and become an essential part ... Robust knowledge of child development, early childhood education, and best practices. * Exceptional ...

... child development experience in a nursery school, kindergarten or licensed day care center AND 30 semester hours (or 45 quarter hours) of credits from an accredited college or university with 6 ...

Showing results 41-60

Child Development Center information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$21

$33

How much do child development center jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development center in Chicago, IL is $21.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $25.00 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 job categories do people searching Child Development Center jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development Center jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Child Development Center job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 77% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,935 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Child & Family Therapist

Friend Family Health Center

Chicago, IL • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
The Child & Family Therapist provides behavioral health services to children ages 0-12 and their families enrolled in the PWDC program. The therapist focuses on strengthening parent-child relationships, addressing developmental and behavioral concerns, and supporting families impacted by substance use disorders.
This role includes providing dyadic parent-child therapy, conducting developmental screenings, and delivering early childhood behavioral health interventions that support healthy development and family stability. The therapist may also support families involved with DCFS reunification efforts when applicable.
The Child & Family Therapist works closely with the multidisciplinary program team to ensure families receive coordinated services that promote recovery, parenting success, and positive child outcomes.
JOB DUTIES
Clinical Services
  • Provide therapy services to children ages 0-12 and their families
  • Deliver dyadic parent-child therapy to strengthen family relationships
  • Address behavioral and emotional concerns impacting children and caregivers

Child Development Support
  • Conduct developmental screenings for enrolled children
  • Provide early childhood behavioral health interventions
  • Educate parents on child development and emotional regulation strategies

Family Stabilization
  • Support families impacted by substance use disorders, trauma, or behavioral health challenges
  • Assist families involved in DCFS reunification efforts when applicable

Care Coordination
  • Collaborate with program staff including clinicians, case managers, and peer specialists
  • Participate in multidisciplinary case review meetings
  • Coordinate referrals to additional services when appropriate

Documentation & Compliance
  • Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation
  • Ensure compliance with program standards and DHS requirement

QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Master's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy, or a related behavioral health field.
  • CADC, LCSW, LCPC, LPC, LMFT.
  • Experience providing therapy to children and families.
  • Knowledge of child development and family systems.
  • Experience working with families impacted by behavioral health or substance use challenges preferred.

SMART GOALS
  • Conduct developmental screenings for 100% of enrolled children
  • Provide consistent therapy services to assigned families
  • Maintain 90% compliance with documentation timelines
  • Improve family engagement and participation in behavioral health services

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to conduct therapy sessions with children and families
  • Ability to sit for extended periods while documenting services
  • Ability to travel locally for home visits or meetings when required

BENEFITS & COMPENSATION
Salary: $62,000
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Contributions
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Holidays
  • Life Insurance & Disability Coverage
  • Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development Opportunities
  • Wellness Programs & Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

Occupational Risk for Exposure to TB:
There is an occupational risk for exposure to TB, as this position involves extensive community and patient contact. Employees in this role are required to comply with annual TB testing as part of workplace health and safety protocols. The only acceptable exceptions to this requirement are documented medical contraindications or religious objections. Employees who decline TB testing will be required to wear a mask when deemed necessary.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Friend Health - HRDI is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, marital or parental status, sexual orientation including gender identity, gender expression, military discharge status, physical or mental disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by law. In addition, Friend Health - HRDI provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws (including during the application or hiring process). Friend Health - HRDI supports the Pay Transparency Law as an equal opportunity employer.
Join Our Team!
Friend Health - HRDI is committed to strengthening families and improving maternal and child health outcomes through integrated behavioral health and recovery services. The Pregnant Women with Dependent Children (PWDC) Program provides comprehensive support to pregnant and parenting women experiencing substance use disorders while promoting healthy child development and family stability.
We are seeking a compassionate Child & Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting young children and families impacted by substance use, trauma, and behavioral health challenges.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.