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Child Development Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District

$70.84 - $86.11/hr

Child Development FTE: SUMMARY Under administrative leadership, it is the responsibility of part time faculty to perform tasks which support advancement of the visions, missions, and values of the ...

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Child Development Instructor information

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$5

$20

$29

How much do child development instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development instructor in California is $20.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Child Development Instructor?

A child development instructor is a college professor that teaches child development and psychology. Child development is a crucial factor in primary and early education. In this career, your job duties include preparing daily lesson plans for your classes, delivering lectures to your students, and handling the administrative aspects of the classroom. The qualifications needed for a career as a child development instructor include a master’s degree in child or human development. However, many college level instructors hold P.h.Ds. This job requires excellent communication and teaching skills.

What does a Child Development Instructor do?

A Child Development Instructor is responsible for teaching and guiding children in their early years, typically in a preschool or childcare setting. They create lesson plans, organize educational activities, and foster a safe, supportive environment for children to learn and develop social, cognitive, and emotional skills. Additionally, they assess children's progress, communicate with parents or guardians, and ensure that all activities are age-appropriate and aligned with developmental milestones. Their role is crucial in laying the foundation for lifelong learning and healthy development.

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

To thrive as a Child Development Instructor, you need a solid understanding of early childhood education principles, child psychology, and typically a degree or certification in child development or a related field. Familiarity with curriculum planning software, classroom management systems, and developmental assessment tools is often required. Strong communication, patience, creativity, and the ability to build trust with children and families set outstanding instructors apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for fostering a supportive learning environment and promoting healthy child development.

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

AspectChild Development InstructorPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild development certification or CDA, sometimes a degree in early childhood educationEarly childhood education certification or CDA, often a degree in education
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centers, community programsPreschools, private or public early childhood education settings
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare providers, community organizations, educational programsPreschools, early childhood education institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Child Development Instructor and a Preschool Teacher lies in their focus and certification. Child Development Instructors often work in community or daycare settings with a focus on developmental milestones, while Preschool Teachers typically work in formal preschool classrooms with a curriculum-based approach. Both roles require similar credentials and serve early childhood education, but their work environments and job responsibilities can differ slightly.

What are some common challenges a Child Development Instructor faces when working with diverse groups of children?

Child Development Instructors often work with children from various backgrounds, each with unique learning styles, abilities, and needs. Navigating language barriers, addressing different developmental stages within the same group, and ensuring inclusive participation can be challenging. Effective instructors use adaptive teaching strategies, collaborate closely with families and other educators, and continually assess and adjust activities to foster an engaging, supportive environment for every child.
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Child Development Instructor jobs near you
Child Development Specialist II

Child Development Specialist II

San Diego Community College District

San Diego, CA

$22 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description


Child Development Specialist II
San Diego Community College District
Closing Date:
Position Number:
Location: District Wide
Position Type:
The Position:
Posting Details (Default Section)
Closing Date: Open Until Filled No Classification Title Child Development Specialist II Working Title Recruitment Limits Location District Wide Pay Information Click here for the hourly pay rate.
If you would like to open the link in a different tab or window, right click and select the option. Bargaining Unit NANCE Range No Response Department District Wide The Position FUNCTION:
Under the direction of the instructors assigned to a Child Development Center, the Child Development Specialist assists in directing and implementing a daily child learning program involving cognitive, language, social-emotional, and physical development in the Child Development Program; participates in planning and parent activities as assigned. Major Responsibilities REQUISITE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE AND ABILITIES INCLUDE:
Knowledge of the following: Current concepts used in Early Childhood Education, health, safety, and nutrition requirements of pre-school children, various stages of child growth and development, planning for a Child Development program, methods of observing, evaluating and recording child behavior, principles and practices of supervision and training, oral and written communications skills. Qualifications Any combination of training and experience equivalent to: graduation from high school supplemented by sufficient course work and experience to obtain Children's Center Permit and one year of experience working with preschool children in a Child Development Program environment. Desired Qualifications Licenses/Certificates/Credentials: Varies upon the position Commitment to Diversity: All applicants must have demonstrated cultural competency and sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, faculty and classified professionals. Working Conditions Varies upon the position Special Instructions to Applicants: Conditions of Employment: THE FOLLOWING MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO EMPLOYMENT:Provide a Certificate of Tuberculosis Exam for initial appointment (Note: The certificate must be renewed every 4 years as a condition of continuing employment);Have fingerprints taken by a Live Scan computer at the district's expense (Clearance must be received prior to first day of employment); AND Present original documents for proof of eligibility to work in the United States. Posting Number NC00348
Major Responsibilities:
REQUISITE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE AND ABILITIES INCLUDE:
Knowledge of the following: Current concepts used in Early Childhood Education, health, safety, and nutrition requirements of pre-school children, various stages of child growth and development, planning for a Child Development program, methods of observing, evaluating and recording child behavior, principles and practices of supervision and training, oral and written communications skills.
Qualifications:
Any combination of training and experience equivalent to: graduation from high school supplemented by sufficient course work and experience to obtain Children's Center Permit and one year of experience working with preschool children in a Child Development Program environment.
Desired Qualifications:
Licenses:
Varies upon the position
Pay Information:
Click here for the hourly pay rate.
If you would like to open the link in a different tab or window, right click and select the option.
To apply, visit: https://www.sdccdjobs.com
All applicants must have demonstrated cultural competency and sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students and staff.

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