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How much do child development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development in the United States is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.67 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.
More about Child Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Child Development jobs? Cities with the most Child Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs? The most popular types of Child Development jobs are:
What states have the most Child Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Child Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development jobs are:
Child Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,005 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Child Development Specialist

Child Development Specialist

Positive Development

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 hours ago

Positive Development rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Title: Child Development Specialist
Work Location:
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $22-$28 per hour
Our Mission:
Make a real impact. Build real skills. Grow with us.
At Positive Development, we believe every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive and every burgeoning professional deserves meaningful work that builds real skills for the future.
We work one-on-one with autistic children, helping them build communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based, relationship-focused interactions.
Why This Role is Different:
This isn't a passive "observe and assist" job. You'll be actively coaching, connecting, and helping children grow; while gaining experience that's highly relevant for careers in:
  • Psychology
  • Social Work
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Speech Language Pathology
  • Education and Special Education
  • Counseling
  • Medicine and Health

This work is deeply rewarding, but it requires patience, emotional maturity, and commitment. You'll be supported every step of the way by experienced clinicians and supervisors who are invested in your growth.
We're especially excited to meet candidates who are:
  • Passionate about working with children and teens
  • Curious about human development and learning
  • Patient, empathetic, and enthusiastic
  • Reliable and committed to a consistent schedule (kids depend on consistency!)
  • Comfortable working directly with families in home-based setting

Great fits include:
Education majors, psychology students, pre-meds, nursing students, OT/SLP hopefuls, behavior technicians, camp counselors, teacher's assistants, childcare providers, direct support professionals, and caregivers.
What you'll do as a Child Development Specialist:
You'll work one-on-one with children in their homes and/or center based to:
  • Build communication, social, and daily living skills through play, conversation, and shared activities
  • Create meaningful connections that help children think, create, and engage with the world
  • Follow a relationship-based intervention model designed to achieve strong outcomes with fewer session hours
  • Track progress by documenting session notes and goal outcomes
  • Collaborate closely with clinicians and supervisors to build clinical skills and confidence
  • Learn how evidence-based developmental care works in real life, not just in textbooks

Pay and Schedules:
  • Direct Pay: $22-$28/hour (based on experience and education)
  • Training / Admin Pay: $20/hour
  • Part-time schedules:
  • 3, 4, or 5 days per week M-F (most available hours are 3pm-8pm)
  • Or Saturday and Sunday (most available hours are between 9a-3pm)
  • Paid drive time + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate) between clients

This role is ideal for students balancing classes, internships, or graduate school.
Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED (must be 18+)
  • Valid driver's license + reliable transportation (30-40 min drive radius).
  • Ability to complete physical tasks, including:
  • Playing on the floor/ground for up to two-three hours per session
  • Lifting/carrying up to 40 lbs
  • Sitting, kneeling, crouching, or moving quickly to ensure child safety
  • Strong communication skills and professionalism with families and teammates

Training, growth, and career development:
We invest in you because strong clinicians start with strong support.
  • You don't need to be an expert- we'll train you.
  • Paid New Hire Training
  • Ongoing coaching and mentorship from expert clinicians
  • Opportunities for role progression, pay increases, and performance bonuses
  • Exposure to a cutting-edge model of autism care with measurable outcome

Benefits and Perks:
  • $1000 Referral Bonus
  • Monthly Technology Stipend
  • Paid drive time at admin rate + mileage reimbursement between clients
  • Paid training
  • Strong performers may request letters of recommendation for graduate or professional programs

Positive Development is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
Employment is contingent upon clearing a background check and successful completion of training.

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