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Child Development Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

BK Behavior

Child Development Behavior Technician

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Serve as an integral member of our clinical team, responsible for the direct implementation of ... Education or early childhood development * Childcare, babysitting, or youth mentorship * Teaching ...

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All JobsChild Development JobsChild Development Director JobsChild Development Director Jobs in Iowa

Child Development Director information

See Iowa salary details

$15K

$89.9K

$167.2K

How much do child development director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development director in Iowa is $89,896.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $107,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Child Development Director do?

A Child Development Director oversees the daily operations of early childhood education programs, such as preschools or daycare centers. They are responsible for managing staff, developing curriculum, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering a safe and supportive learning environment for young children. Their role also includes communicating with parents, setting policies, and maintaining the overall quality of the program. In addition, Child Development Directors often handle budgeting and enrollment processes to ensure the center runs smoothly.

What are some common challenges faced by a Child Development Director, and how can they be effectively managed?

A Child Development Director often navigates challenges such as balancing administrative duties with fostering a positive, engaging environment for both children and staff. Managing staff turnover, maintaining compliance with state regulations, and ensuring high-quality curriculum implementation can also be demanding. Effective communication, ongoing staff training, and building strong relationships with parents and the community are essential strategies to address these challenges. Staying organized and proactive in problem-solving helps create a supportive and thriving learning environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Development Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Development Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, program management, and a relevant degree—often with state-specific director credentials. Knowledge of child assessment tools, curriculum planning software, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Leadership, strong communication, and relationship-building skills help foster positive environments for children, staff, and families. These abilities ensure high-quality programming, regulatory adherence, and supportive learning environments that promote healthy child development.

What is the difference between Child Development Director vs Preschool Director?

AspectChild Development DirectorPreschool Director
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's in early childhood education or related field, along with experience in child developmentOften requires a high school diploma or associate's degree, with experience in preschool management
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs or facilities, focusing on child development policies and staff supervisionManages daily operations of a preschool, including staff, curriculum, and parent relations
Industry UsageUsed in non-profit, government, or large childcare organizationsCommon in private preschools and daycare centers

The Child Development Director typically has a broader scope, focusing on program development and child welfare across multiple settings, while the Preschool Director manages daily operations within a specific preschool. Both roles require early childhood education credentials but differ in scale and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Director jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Director jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Child Development Director jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Child Development Director job openings:
Child Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Director job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 62% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,896 per year, or $43.2 per hour.
Student Child Development Center Teacher Assistant

Student Child Development Center Teacher Assistant

Des Moines Area Community College

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$13/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Job Title
Student Child Development Center Teacher Assistant
Campus
Ankeny Campus, IA
Job Number
26-S02
Employment Date
As soon as possible
Job Category
Student Positions
Application & Position Information Call
Jenn Whitted at jlwhitted@dmacc.edu or 515-964-6588.
Posting Detail Information
Salary Information
$13.00 per hour
Job Summary
Provide warm, nurturing care for children in the child development center.
Would help prepare learning environments, provide direct care, maintain safe and healthy environments.
Implement program philosophy and promote classroom management.
Will work and take direction from center coordinator, child development, faculty and staff.
Essential Functions
Required Qualifications
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with varied students, children, and staff.
Ability to make sound decisions in emergency situations.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Must pass background check and fingerprinting.
Experience working with children.
Desired Qualifications
Experience working with young children from birth to five-year-old.
Early Childhood Education students desired.
Work Schedule
To be determined.
Posting Date
08/28/2025
Deadline for Submitting Applications
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
DMACC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Individuals with disabilities desiring a reasonable accommodation in the application process should notify Human Resources at 515-964-6301 or by email jobs@dmacc.edu.
THIS VACANCY REQUIRES: 1) A complete DMACC Employment Application in English (personal information, educational history, employment history, and supplemental questions). Incomplete applications and commenting "See Resume" will not be accepted. The application form will be used to screen applicants for required qualifications. 2) Attachment of transcripts to your electronic application (if required). Transcripts must include the applicant's name and degrees conferred. Scanned copies are acceptable.
Must be legally eligible to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.
Quicklink
https://jobs.dmacc.edu/postings/13752

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