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Child Development Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Strong background in child development and Medical terminology Why Mercy? From day one, Mercy ... offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off ...

Child Care Assistant

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

You will be responsible for implementing structured activities and facilitating developmental ... As a Child Care Assistant, you will provide supervision and support to children enrolled in our ...

Implement developmentally appropriate practices and therapeutic curriculum * Follow agency policies, licensing regulations, and approved behavior guidance techniques * Maintain required child-to ...

PRN Child Advocate

Springfield, MO · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Implement developmentally appropriate practices and therapeutic curriculum * Follow agency policies, licensing regulations, and approved behavior guidance techniques * Maintain required child-to ...

Child Care Assistant

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

Child Development Associate (CDA)required. Additional Qualifications: Must have the ability to pass a background check (includesfingerprinting) to include criminal history, abuse/neglect, and driving ...

Showing results 21-40

Child Development information

See Missouri salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do child development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development in Missouri is $18.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a child development?

A Child Development job involves working with children to support their physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Professionals in this field may work as teachers, childcare providers, social workers, or developmental specialists. They observe and assess children's progress, develop age-appropriate activities, and provide guidance to families. These jobs often require knowledge of child psychology, education, and developmental milestones.

What does a typical day look like for a child development professional?

A typical day for Child Development professionals involves planning and implementing age-appropriate educational activities, observing and tracking each child's progress, and maintaining a safe, supportive environment. They frequently collaborate with parents, teachers, and other specialists to address individual developmental needs and create tailored strategies for growth. Daily responsibilities may include documenting observations, conducting developmental screenings, and attending team meetings to discuss child progress. The variety in daily tasks helps maintain an engaging work environment and directly contributes to the positive development and well-being of children.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in child development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Child Development roles, a background in early childhood education, child psychology, or a related field is essential, often accompanied by relevant degrees or certifications such as a CDA (Child Development Associate) credential. Familiarity with educational assessment tools, curriculum planning software, and child behavior observation systems is commonly required. Strong communication, patience, creativity, and the ability to build trusting relationships with children and families make professionals stand out. These skills and qualifications are vital for fostering healthy growth, learning, and emotional well-being in young children.

Is child development a good career?

Child development is a rewarding career that involves supporting the growth and learning of children through roles such as early childhood educators, childcare providers, or developmental specialists. It typically requires relevant education or certifications and offers opportunities in educational, healthcare, and social service settings. The field can provide stable employment and the chance to make a positive impact on children's lives.

What does a child development job entail?

A child development job involves supporting the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth of children through activities, education, and care. Professionals in this field often work in settings such as daycare centers, preschools, or clinics, and may require knowledge of child development theories and certifications like CPR or early childhood education credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Missouri?

The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Missouri are:

What job categories do people searching Child Development jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development jobs in Missouri are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Child Development jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Child Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Child Development job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,525 per year, or $18 per hour.

Child Life Specialist Full Time

Mercy

On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Mercy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 209 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

606th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy!Provide intervention to educate, prepare and support children through tests and procedures. Plan, implement and supervise activities and special events to normalize hospital environment and promote socialization and normal development. Advocate for special of families and patients. Promote the role of parents and the philosophy of patient and family centered care. Supervise students and volunteers.Position Details:
A Child Life Specialist degree refers to the college education and training needed to become a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS)-a healthcare professional who helps children and families cope with illness, injury, hospitalization, and medical procedures. This is a requirement to apply for the role.

** A completed child life internship is required.

Required Education:

  • Bachelors of Science or Bachelors of Arts in related Child Life field and internship in appropriate area required.

Experience:

  • 2 years experience in child related education or medical care facility is preferred.

Certifications:

  • BLS (Basic Life Support) through American Heart Association is required upon hire.
  • Must possess or acquire certification through Association for Child Life Professionals as a Certified Child Life Specialist within 1 year of hire and maintain throughout duration of employment.

Other Skills:

  • Strong background in child development and Medical terminology
Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.


What Mercy employees say

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Benefits

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827