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Child Development Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

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 Center Cook

Gladstone, MO · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

From infants to school-age students, our comprehensive, research-based curriculum supports holistic child development in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. As experts in childcare and early ...

Child Care Center Cook

Blue Springs, MO · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

From infants to school-age students, our comprehensive, research-based curriculum supports holistic child development in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. As experts in childcare and early ...

Child Care Center Cook

Blue Springs, MO

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

From infants to school-age students, our comprehensive, research-based curriculum supports holistic child development in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. As experts in childcare and early ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Lead Child and Youth Program Assistant CY-02

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Fort Leonard Wood, MO • On-site

$24.18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Positions are located at Fort Leonard Wood Child Development Center (CDC) 615.
Morale Welfare and Recreation Child and Youth Services (CYS) Employee Childcare Fee applicable to employees working at least 15 hours per week:
  • First Child: 100% childcare fee discount (all CYS employees)
  • Second and Subsequent Child: 25% childcare fee discount (all CYS employees)
Incentives and Bonuses
  • Incentives will not be paid.
Qualifications:Resumes must be two pages (or less). Resumes should clearly demonstrate the applicant's relevant experience, skills, knowledge and abilities as they pertain to this position.
A qualified candidate must possess the following:

All Candidates must:

  • Must be 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • The incumbent must communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing to communicate with CYS team and customers, prepare reports and plans, and document observations.

In addition, candidates must meet one of the following:

  • Minimum of 18 months experience working in group programs with children/youth as well as demonstrated knowledge in theories and principals of child/youth development AND Education:- Completion of DoW standardized training course OR Child Development Associate (CDA) or Military School-Age (MSA) credential.
OR
  • Experience: Minimum of 12 months experience working in group programs with children/youth as well as demonstrated knowledge in theories and principals of child growth and development AND Education:- Associate's degree or 60 semester hours of college credit in early childhood, elementary, or secondary education; child and youth development, special education, Human Development, Youth Program Administration, Recreation (children and youth), Physical Education or directly related behavioral sciences (developmental psychology, child psychology/sociology for the family. General psychology/sociology course work is not qualifying) OR related field which includes a major course of study (24 semester hours) with content directly related to the age group to which assigned, from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university. OR Bachelor's degree or advanced degree in early childhood, elementary, or secondary education; child and youth development, or special education, Human Development, Youth Program Administration, Recreation (children and youth), Physical Education or directly related behavioral sciences (developmental psychology, child psychology/sociology for the family. General psychology/sociology course work is not qualifying) or related field which includes a major course of study (24 semester hours) with content directly related to the age group to which assigned, from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university.
Education:Proof of education is required at the time of application. Note: Education must be directly related to the position to be filled. General Education courses do not count toward the credit total.
If qualifying via DoW approved competency training courses, you must supply one of the following:
  • A completed Foundation IDP signed by both the employee and the supervisor/training specialist
  • A signed Foundation (or equivalent) certificate
  • A memorandum stating completion of Foundation training from a supervisor or CYS Training Specialist that contains their full name, title, and full contact information (email and/or phone number)
VLS certificates without an accompanying IDP will not be accepted.Employment Type: OTHER

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