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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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$29

How much do child development instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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.
More about Child Development Instructor jobs
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What cities in California are hiring for Child Development Instructor jobs? Cities in California with the most Child Development Instructor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Child Development Instructor jobs in CA? For Child Development Instructor jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Child Development Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Instructor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, and 71% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,859 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Child Development Specialist II

Child Development Specialist II

San Diego Community College District

San Diego, CA • On-site

$21.75 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

|
Posting Details
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 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

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