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Child Development Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Wonderful Little Faces

Child Care Worker

Portland, OR · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

As a Child Care Worker, you will play an important role in supporting each child's development while building meaningful relationships with families and collaborating with a supportive, professional ...

Legacy Health

Pediatric Child Life Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$29.89 - $42.74/hr

Bachelor's degree in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology, or related field with all clinical coursework for clinical Child Life Certification completed. * Completion of a 600-hour Child Life ...

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All JobsChild Development JobsChild Development Jobs in Portland, OR

Child Development information

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How much do child development jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development in Portland, OR is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $21.92 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Child Development jobs in Portland, OR?

For Child Development jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Child Development jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Child Development jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Child Development job openings:

Child Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,426 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Director - Child Development Center

YMCA of Columbia Willamette

Portland, OR • On-site

$25.50 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description:

Do you want rewarding work focused on providing a fun, safe, and positive social-emotional experience for children? Work alongside other passionate individuals to support and enrich the lives of our youth.


The YMCA is looking for fun, hardworking, individuals looking to make an impact in our community. This position will provide care for children at our Child Development Center ("Wee Care") located on the campus of Providence Portland hospital. 
 

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Information

Position Title: Director- Child Development Center
Department: Childcare
Reports To: Tatiana Pavelka, Leader of Youth Development
Employment Status: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Compensation: $25.50-27.50/hour
Work Arrangement: Hybrid
Primary Work Location: Providence Portland Child Development Center

About the YMCA of Columbia-Willamette

The YMCA of Columbia-Willamette is a leading nonprofit organization serving communities throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. Guided by our mission to strengthen community through Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility, we provide programs and services that help individuals of all ages learn, grow, and thrive.

Our employees are passionate about creating welcoming, inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Every position contributes to our mission and plays an important role in strengthening the communities we serve.


Job Responsibilities:

The Director is responsible for hiring and supervising program staff, maintaining all licensing standards, managing aspects of a budget including ordering required supplies, and communicating with parents and community partners to foster positive relationships within our community.  Additionally, the Director is responsible for ensuring all record keeping and administrative tasks are completed accurately in a timely manner, participating in observation and assessment of children as needed, updating and implementing emergency procedures, and managing daily operation of the center.

Working Conditions

Working conditions may include:

  • Indoor and outdoor work environments
  • Exposure to varying weather conditions
  • Moderate to high noise levels
  • Evening, weekend, and holiday work as needed
  • Travel between YMCA locations
  • Frequent interaction with children, families, members, volunteers, and community partners

YMCA-CW Comprehensive Benefits for Eligible Full-Time Employees

Eligible full-time employees may receive access to a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan and Roth Options
  • 9% Employer Contribution to the YMCA Retirement Fund (upon eligibility)
  • Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • LegalShield and IDShield Plans
  • Paid Vacation (accrual increases with years of service)
  • Paid Sick Leave in accordance with applicable state and local law
  • Three (3) Paid Holidays annually
  • Six (6) Floating Holidays annually
  • Complimentary YMCA Membership (recognized globally!)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Growth Opportunities

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and may change in accordance with YMCA-CW policies and benefit plan documents.

Requirements:
  • Pass a YMCA Background Check
  • Meet all Director standards as dictated by Oregon's Department of Early Learning and Care including one of the following two qualifications: 1) Step 9 in the Oregon Registry OR 2) knowledge of management and supervision of adults evidenced by 7 college level credit hours, at least 70 training hours in program management, OR 600 hours of experience where there was an opportunity to participate in financial management, policy development, record keeping, and staff management AND knowledge of child development evidenced by 7 college level credit hours, at least 70 training hours in specific child development categories, OR 600 hours of qualifying teaching experience with preschool age children.
  • Current enrollment in the Oregon State Childcare Registry or ability to enroll prior to employment.
  • Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain within 30 days.
  • Current Food Handlers certification or ability to obtain within 30 days.
  • At least 21 years of age