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Child Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Uni

Child Development Specialist

Campus, IL

$40K/yr

Assistant Child Development Specialist or Child Development Specialist . This position will rotate to other classrooms as needed and support early care and education activities. Skills are taught and ...

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Child Development Specialist

Culver City, CA · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

The Child Development Specialist works under the supervision of the Director of Early Care and Education and with the guidance of the Head of Educational Excellence. The Child Development Specialist ...

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Child Development Specialist

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $25.50/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $28.25/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($45 / hour - $55 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Riverside, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $28.25/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.50/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$19 - $22.25/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Vista, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.50/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Pomona, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $24/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Millbrae, CA · Hybrid

$23.75 - $27.75/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($45 / hour - $55 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $25.50/hr

Child Development Specialist for Evaluation Only Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create ...

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Child Development Specialist

Riverside, CA · Hybrid

$21.50 - $25/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

Sunny Days

Child Development Specialist

Escondido, CA · Hybrid

$21.50 - $25.25/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

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Child Development Specialist

Fountain Valley, CA · Hybrid

$22.50 - $26.25/hr

Child Development Specialist Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create your Own schedule

Sunny Days

Child Development Specialist

Oceanside, CA · Hybrid

$21.25 - $24.75/hr

Child Development Specialist for Evaluation Only Benefits: * Competitive Rates, Based on Experience ($35 / hour - $45 / hour) * Sign on Bonus up to $500 * Professional Support & Development * Create ...

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Child Development Specialist information

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How much do child development specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development specialist in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by child development specialists when working with children from diverse backgrounds?

Child Development Specialists often work with children from a variety of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, which can present unique challenges in communication and engagement. Adapting assessment tools and intervention strategies to fit each child’s individual needs requires cultural sensitivity and flexibility. Building trust with both children and their families may take time, but it is essential for effective support. Specialists must also continually update their knowledge to address developmental milestones and behavioral concerns appropriately across diverse populations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child development specialist?

To thrive as a Child Development Specialist, you need a solid understanding of child psychology, developmental milestones, and early childhood education, usually supported by a relevant degree and certifications such as Child Development Associate (CDA). Familiarity with assessment tools, individualized education plans (IEPs), and developmental screening instruments is often required. Outstanding communication, patience, and problem-solving skills help specialists build trust with children and collaborate effectively with families and other professionals. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately assessing children's needs and fostering their optimal growth and development.

What is the difference between Child Development Specialist vs Child Psychologist?

AspectChild Development SpecialistChild Psychologist
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's or master's degree in child development, education, or related field; certifications varyDoctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology; state licensure required
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centers, clinics, community programsPrivate practice, hospitals, clinics, schools
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and community organizations focusing on child growth and developmentHealthcare and mental health services specializing in psychological assessment and therapy

Child Development Specialists focus on supporting children's developmental milestones through educational and community programs, often working in early childhood settings. Child Psychologists diagnose and treat mental health issues, providing therapy and assessments. Both roles require specialized training but differ mainly in scope and setting.

What is a child development specialist?

As child development specialist, you are responsible for developing and administering programs for young children to promote healthy development. Child development specialists typically work in schools, childcare facilities, and medical clinics working with children, teachers, and parents. Job duties vary by positions. In some positions, you will provide direct care or supervision to children. In others, you will oversee the developmental program for an organization.

What is a child development specialist?

A Child Development Specialist is a professional who assesses, supports, and promotes the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development of children, particularly those with developmental delays or special needs. They work with families, educators, and healthcare providers to create individualized plans and interventions tailored to each child's unique needs. Their goal is to help children reach developmental milestones and achieve their full potential.
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Child Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,796 per year, or $22 per hour.

Child Development Specialist

Buonora Child Development Center

Reseda, CA • On-site

$24 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description:

Job description:

Buonora Child Development Centers?is currently seeking a joyous and skilled?Child Development Specialist?to join our team. The ideal candidate maximizes the potential of each child by working collaboratively with the child and parent/caregiver to develop a plan that guides them to meet their developmental goals and milestones. The child development specialist aids and supports families in identifying specific concerns, priorities, and resources, while providing an individualized approach for each child and family to ensure a comprehensive program.

Requirements:

General Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Establish individualized goals and a plan of care for each child and family that are directly related to their individual needs.
  • Facilitate play-based activities to enhance all developmental areas
  • Support families and children who possess various diagnoses, needs, disabilities, and developmental delays.
  • Educate / “coach” a child's family members to be more adept at accommodating and caring for their child effectively
  • Regularly and accurately document child’s growth and development and submit progress reports when needed
  • Schedule sessions with child and family and maintain consistency

Job Expectations and Requirements:

  • Have clear knowledge of developmental domains
  • Proficient skills with Microsoft Suite (able to utilize scheduling and spreadsheet software)
  • Bilingual Spanish speaking applicants preferred but not required
  • Approach learning opportunities openly and respect the mentoring of senior positions.
  • Physical ability to adapt to children’s environment
  • Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability

Required Educational and Field Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Child Development or in the process of obtaining a bachelor’s degree.
  • 12 units in early child development preferred
  • 3-6 units in early intervention or children with special needs preferred
  • 1+ years of field experience – preferred

Minimum Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, run, crouch, kneel, crawl, bend, reach, and lift up to 50 pounds as needed to safely support young children.
  • Ability to actively participate in floor-based play, outdoor activities, transitions, and caregiving routines.

Additional Requirements:

  • Pass a criminal background check, including fingerprint/live scan screening and child abuse index clearance.
  • Complete TB clearance and health screening requirements.
  • Maintain all required immunizations.
  • Complete Mandated Reporter Training for childcare providers.
  • Maintain current pediatric CPR and First Aid certification.
  • Provide valid identification, Social Security card, and any other employment documents required by the program.

Join us as we set out to make a positive impact in our community and the lives of the children and families that we serve. We look forward to hearing from you!



Full-Time Employee Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Mileage reimbursement
  • Paid time off
  • Paid training
  • Parental leave
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance


We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, color, sex (including childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, uniform service member and veteran status, pregnancy, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, disability or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.


Buonora participates in the E-Verify program.