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Child Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Child Care Teacher

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22.60/hr

Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones * Ensure a safe ... Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required

Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones * Ensure a safe ... Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required

Child Care Teacher

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22.60/hr

Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones * Ensure a safe ... Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required

Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones * Ensure a safe ... Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required

Child Care Teacher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.75 - $25.35/hr

Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones * Ensure a safe ... Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required

Child Care Teacher

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22.60/hr

Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones * Ensure a safe ... Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required

Child Care Teacher

Evanston, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $24.10/hr

Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones * Ensure a safe ... Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required

Child Care Teacher

Hinsdale, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22.60/hr

Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones * Ensure a safe ... Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required

Showing results 41-60

Child Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$19

$26

How much do child development jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development in Chicago, IL is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $21.30 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Child Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Child Development jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Child Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Child Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,244 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

$18.50 - $22.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Bright Horizons rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 297 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 224 rated education and training


Job description

Grow your teaching career with Bright Horizons, where you can make a meaningful impact on children's lives every day. Learn from early education experts while having the opportunity to pursue a CDA or college degree at no cost. Experience this and more as a Bright Horizons Teacher.
Full-time positions are available with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Responsibilities:
  • Create hands-on activities to meet the needs and interests of the children
  • Maintain open communication with parents, sharing their child's daily milestones
  • Ensure a safe and clean classroom by following essential procedures and guidelines
  • Provide support in any classroom or age group where teaching coverage is needed across a center or in nearby locations

Qualifications:
Candidates must pass required state and company background checks and meet state and company minimum education and experience requirements:
  • 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED is required
  • College-level coursework in early childhood education, CDA, or an associate or bachelor's degree in early education or related field is preferred
  • 1 year of professional experience teaching in child care, daycare, or preschool settings is preferred
  • Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) for children is required
  • Must meet state requirements to be Teacher Qualified in the State of IL:
    1) 60 semester hours (or 90 quarter hours) of credits from an accredited college or university with six semester hours or nine quarter hours in courses related directly to child care and/or development from birth to age 6
    OR
    2) 1 year (1560 clock hours) of child development experience in a nursery school, kindergarten or licensed day care center AND 30 semester hours (or 45 quarter hours) of credits from an accredited college or university with 6 semester or 9 quarter hours in courses related directly to childcare and/or child development from birth to age 6
    OR
    3) Completion of credential programs approved by the Department in accordance with Appendix G, otherwise known as CDA.

Be part of a community where people grow, futures are shaped, and lives are changed. We offer the rewards, opportunities, and support you deserve because making a difference goes both ways. We're changing the world of work and family, and it starts with you. At Bright Horizons, you're the difference.
Physical Requirements:
This position requires the employee to comply with all applicable federal, state, local, Bright Horizons', and client site requirements concerning immunizations, employment physical/screening, and health and safety training.
If hired, you will work in person in an early education/preschool child care center to provide supervision, care, curriculum delivery and services per Bright Horizons' policies, procedures and guidance, in compliance with any applicable laws and regulations, and in a manner that will ensure the safety of children in Bright Horizons care and the employee.
  • Frequently lift, carry, or hold children with a range of weight from 10 to 40 pounds; occasionally lift, carry, or hold weight more than 40 pounds
  • Demonstrate full range of motion to lift, reach, squat, climb, sit, and otherwise fully participate in activities
  • Respond immediately and appropriately to multiple or unexpected situations or emergencies
  • Maintain mental and physical alertness and an appropriate level of energy to perform essential job requirements

The full set of physical requirements for this role can be reviewed at https://careers.brighthorizons.com/job-descriptions. Bright Horizons complies with all laws that require reasonable accommodation for qualifying disabilities and/or pregnancy-related limitations.
This position requires in-person work in the Oak Brook, IL area.
Compensation:
The hourly rate for this position is between $18.50 - $22.60 per hour. The pay range listed here is what Bright Horizons in good faith anticipates offering for this job opening. Actual compensation offers within this range will depend on a variety of factors including experience, education and training, certifications, geography, and other relevant business or organizational factors.
Benefits:
Bright Horizons offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid vacation, sick, holiday, and parental bonding leave
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Long-term and short-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Money-saving discounts and financial planning tools
  • Career development opportunities and free college degrees through our Horizons CDA & Degree Program
  • Caregiving support and resources for the children and adults in your family
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Learn more at https://careers.brighthorizons.com/us/en/health-and-wellness

Compensation: $18.50 - $22.60 / hr
Life at Bright Horizons:
At Bright Horizons, you're more than your job title - you're the difference. Whether you're nurturing a child's first steps or supporting the systems behind the scenes, your work creates real impact. We're a community that celebrates individuality, invests in your growth, and supports your whole self. Because when you thrive, so do the children, families, and clients we serve. Join us and help build a brighter future - for yourself and for others.
Bright Horizons provides equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and does not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law. Bright Horizons complies with the laws and regulations described in the following federal government resources: Know Your Rights, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA).
If you require assistance or a reasonable accommodation in completing these application materials or any aspect of the application and hiring process, please contact the recruitment helpdesk at 855-877-6866 or bhrecruit@brighthorizons.com. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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