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Child Development Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Teacher - South Learning Center

Springfield, MO · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

... Child Development Associate Credential). Preferred: College hours related to early childhood education Experience: Preferred: 1-2 Years Related Experience Skills: Excellent verbal and written ...

Teacher - South Learning Center

Springfield, MO

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

... Child Development Associate Credential). Preferred: College hours related to early childhood education Experience: Preferred: 1-2 Years Related Experience Skills: Excellent verbal and written ...

Lead Teacher - North Learning Center

Springfield, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

OR Current CDA credential (Child Development Associate Credential) Experience • Preferred: 1-2 Years Related Experience Skills • Excellent customer service skills. • Excellent time management ...

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Child Development information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do child development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development in Springfield, MO is $17.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Child Development position, 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.

What is a Child Development job?

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 is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying jobs in child development typically include pediatric healthcare professionals such as pediatric surgeons, pediatric anesthesiologists, and child psychiatrists, who require advanced medical degrees and specialized training. Administrative roles like director of a child development center or clinical director can also offer high salaries, especially with extensive experience and certifications. These positions often involve leadership responsibilities and require advanced education and licensure.

What degree does a child development specialist need?

A child development specialist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in child development, early childhood education, psychology, or a related field. Some positions may require a master's degree or additional certifications, such as the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, to advance in the field.

What does a typical day look like for professionals working in Child Development?

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 is a career in child development?

A career in child development involves working with children to support their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social growth. Professionals in this field may include early childhood educators, child psychologists, or developmental specialists, often requiring relevant degrees and certifications. The work environment typically includes schools, daycare centers, clinics, or research settings.

Is child development a good career?

Child development is a rewarding career that involves supporting children's growth, learning, and well-being. It typically requires a relevant degree or certification, strong communication skills, and patience, with job opportunities available in schools, daycare centers, and community programs. The field offers opportunities for specialization and professional growth, making it a stable choice for those passionate about working with children.
What are popular job titles related to Child Development jobs in Springfield, MO? For Child Development jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Child Development jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Child Development jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Child Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Child Development job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,390 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Kids' Zone Staff- Pat Jones YMCA

Kids' Zone Staff- Pat Jones YMCA

Ozarks Regional YMCA

Springfield, MO • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description
Kids' Zone Attendant
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Under the direction and supervision of the Director, the Kid's Zone Attendant will supervise and guide a child's development in a safe and healthy environment. The incumbent must demonstrate our four core values: Caring, Respect, Honesty, and Responsibility.
Requirements
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Be knowledgeable and adhere to Safety Policies, Procedures and Emergency Response Plans. Always keeping Safety at the forefront of your mind.
  • Act as a positive role model while implementing YMCA character development and following the four core values of Caring, Honesty, Responsibility, and Respect.
  • Be ready to initiate activities, participate in activities and interact with children.
  • Use positive guidance techniques.
  • Maintain appropriate records as required by the center.
  • Possess working knowledge of child abuse and neglect laws and proper reporting procedures.
  • Punch in and out for required shifts and review time to verify accuracy.
  • Notify supervisor in advance when unable to work scheduled shift.
  • Responsible for assuring high standards of program quality, and safety in accordance with YMCA safety and risk management policies.
  • Know all emergency procedures.
  • Possess working knowledge of YMCA mission, purpose, and goals.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Experience leading or providing care for children is preferred.
  • Mature, responsible, easy-going individuals with strong communication skills.
  • Must be able to interact with kids and adults in a positive manner, enthusiastic, flexible.
  • Must be able to align with and demonstrate the YMCA four core values on a consistent basis.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
This is a safety-sensitive position and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position for long periods of time, including walking, standing, bending, squatting, and kneeling.
  • Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.