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Child Development Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UNC-Chapel Hill

Research Assistant

Chapel Hill, NC

$20 - $25/hr

... development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and ... local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events. Primary Purpose of ...

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How much do child development research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development research assistant in the United States is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying roles in child development often include senior positions such as child development directors, clinical psychologists specializing in pediatric care, or research scientists with advanced degrees and extensive experience. These roles typically require advanced education, certifications, and leadership skills, and can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually depending on the setting and location.

What are some typical challenges faced by Child Development Research Assistants when collecting data from young participants?

Child Development Research Assistants often encounter challenges when working with young children, such as maintaining their attention during tasks, ensuring accurate data collection despite short attention spans, and adapting protocols to suit varying developmental stages. Building rapport with both children and their caregivers is essential to facilitate cooperation and create a comfortable environment. Additionally, assistants must be vigilant about ethical considerations and follow strict protocols for consent and confidentiality.

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

To thrive as a Child Development Research Assistant, you need a background in psychology or child development, experience with research methods, and often a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with data collection tools, statistical software (such as SPSS or R), and ethical research protocols is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing data, collaborating with teams, and interacting with children and families. These skills ensure the integrity and reliability of research outcomes and support the overall success of child development studies.

What does a Child Development Research Assistant do?

A Child Development Research Assistant supports research projects focused on how children grow, learn, and develop. Their duties typically include collecting and analyzing data, assisting with experiments or observations, preparing reports, and helping with literature reviews. They may also interact with children and families, administer assessments, and ensure ethical standards are maintained throughout the research. This role is important in advancing our understanding of child development and informing educational or psychological practices.
What cities are hiring for Child Development Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Child Development Research Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Child Development Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Development Research Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Child Development Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,409 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Child Development Specialist

Child Development Specialist

Positive Development

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago

Positive Development rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Title: Child Development Specialist
Work Location:
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $22-$28 per hour
Our Mission:
Make a real impact. Build real skills. Grow with us.
At Positive Development, we believe every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive and every burgeoning professional deserves meaningful work that builds real skills for the future.
We work one-on-one with autistic children, helping them build communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based, relationship-focused interactions.
Why This Role is Different:
This isn't a passive "observe and assist" job. You'll be actively coaching, connecting, and helping children grow; while gaining experience that's highly relevant for careers in:
  • Psychology
  • Social Work
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Speech Language Pathology
  • Education and Special Education
  • Counseling
  • Medicine and Health

This work is deeply rewarding, but it requires patience, emotional maturity, and commitment. You'll be supported every step of the way by experienced clinicians and supervisors who are invested in your growth.
We're especially excited to meet candidates who are:
  • Passionate about working with children and teens
  • Curious about human development and learning
  • Patient, empathetic, and enthusiastic
  • Reliable and committed to a consistent schedule (kids depend on consistency!)
  • Comfortable working directly with families in home-based setting

Great fits include:
Education majors, psychology students, pre-meds, nursing students, OT/SLP hopefuls, behavior technicians, camp counselors, teacher's assistants, childcare providers, direct support professionals, and caregivers.
What you'll do as a Child Development Specialist:
You'll work one-on-one with children in their homes and/or center based to:
  • Build communication, social, and daily living skills through play, conversation, and shared activities
  • Create meaningful connections that help children think, create, and engage with the world
  • Follow a relationship-based intervention model designed to achieve strong outcomes with fewer session hours
  • Track progress by documenting session notes and goal outcomes
  • Collaborate closely with clinicians and supervisors to build clinical skills and confidence
  • Learn how evidence-based developmental care works in real life, not just in textbooks

Pay and Schedules:
  • Direct Pay: $22-$28/hour (based on experience and education)
  • Training / Admin Pay: $20/hour
  • Part-time schedules:
  • 3, 4, or 5 days per week M-F (most available hours are 3pm-8pm)
  • Or Saturday and Sunday (most available hours are between 9a-3pm)
  • Paid drive time + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate) between clients

This role is ideal for students balancing classes, internships, or graduate school.
Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED (must be 18+)
  • Valid driver's license + reliable transportation (30-40 min drive radius).
  • Ability to complete physical tasks, including:
  • Playing on the floor/ground for up to two-three hours per session
  • Lifting/carrying up to 40 lbs
  • Sitting, kneeling, crouching, or moving quickly to ensure child safety
  • Strong communication skills and professionalism with families and teammates

Training, growth, and career development:
We invest in you because strong clinicians start with strong support.
  • You don't need to be an expert- we'll train you.
  • Paid New Hire Training
  • Ongoing coaching and mentorship from expert clinicians
  • Opportunities for role progression, pay increases, and performance bonuses
  • Exposure to a cutting-edge model of autism care with measurable outcome

Benefits and Perks:
  • $1000 Referral Bonus
  • Monthly Technology Stipend
  • Paid drive time at admin rate + mileage reimbursement between clients
  • Paid training
  • Strong performers may request letters of recommendation for graduate or professional programs

Positive Development is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
Employment is contingent upon clearing a background check and successful completion of training.

Apply