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Child Developmental Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey:

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey:

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey:

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey:

$40 - $55/hr

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey:

$20 - $23.50/hr

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey:

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey:

$20 - $23.50/hr

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey:

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Child Developmental Specialist information

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How much do child developmental specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for child developmental specialist in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a Child Development specialist?

A Child Development Specialist assesses and supports the developmental progress of children, often working with children who have developmental delays or disabilities. They develop intervention plans, collaborate with families and educators, and may use tools like assessments and therapy techniques to promote healthy growth and learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Developmental Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Developmental Specialist, you need a solid background in child psychology, early childhood development, and typically a relevant degree such as in psychology, education, or social work. Familiarity with assessment tools, intervention planning software, and certifications like Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) are often required. Strong communication, patience, and cultural sensitivity help build trust with children and families while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure effective support for children's developmental needs and foster positive outcomes in educational and therapeutic settings.

What are some common challenges faced by Child Developmental Specialists when working with families?

Child Developmental Specialists often encounter challenges such as helping families understand and accept developmental delays, navigating cultural differences in parenting styles, and coordinating care with multiple service providers. Building trust with families and creating individualized intervention plans that fit their unique needs can also be complex. Successful specialists rely on strong communication and collaboration skills to support families and ensure the child’s developmental progress.

What does a Child Developmental Specialist do?

A Child Developmental Specialist assesses and supports the growth and development of children, particularly those who may have developmental delays or disabilities. They work with children and their families to create individualized plans that foster cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. These specialists often collaborate with teachers, therapists, and healthcare providers to ensure that each child receives comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. Their goal is to promote positive outcomes and help children reach their developmental milestones.

How much do Child Development specialists make in the US?

Child Development Specialists in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on work setting, certifications, and whether they work in clinics, schools, or community programs.

What degree do you need to be a Child Development specialist?

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 work with specific populations or in certain settings.

What is the highest paying job in Child Development?

The highest paying roles in child development often include senior positions such as Child Development Program Directors or Clinical Supervisors, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to increased responsibilities, specialized skills, and leadership requirements within educational or healthcare settings.

What is the difference between Child Developmental Specialist vs Speech-Language Pathologist?

AspectChild Developmental SpecialistSpeech-Language Pathologist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in child development, education, or related fields; certifications vary by stateRequires a master's degree in speech-language pathology and state licensure
Work EnvironmentPreschools, early intervention programs, clinics, homesHospitals, clinics, schools, private practice
Employer & IndustryEarly childhood programs, special education, healthcareHealthcare, educational institutions, private practice

While both roles support children's development, Child Developmental Specialists focus on overall developmental milestones and early intervention, whereas Speech-Language Pathologists specialize in diagnosing and treating speech and language disorders. The roles often collaborate but require different credentials and work in distinct settings.

More about Child Developmental Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Child Developmental Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Child Developmental Specialist job openings:

Child Developmental Specialist (CDS)

TheraCare New Jersey

Jersey City, NJ

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Required: A Bachelor’s Degree or higher from an accredited institution in a related health, human service or education field, as well as at least one year of professional experience with children ages birth – 3 with disabilities and developmental delays.

TheraCare is seeking dynamic for Child Developmental Specialist looking for a comprehensive and rewarding experience to provide home based services in one of the following areas in New Jersey: Atlantic, Camden, Burlington, Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean & Somerset counties.

In this role, the Child Development Specialist will provide treatment to children up to 3 years old with various developmental delays, in a variety of settings. Provide early intervention within the home.

TheraCare offers our Child Developmental Specialist:

- Competitive compensation and benefits including semi-monthly payments

- Strong supervision model - our experienced staff is here to help you

- Complimentary Applied Behavioral Analysis Intro Training Session

- Availability of clinical resources to aid in professional growth

- Caseload clustered in geographic area of your choice

- Work/life balance and autonomy – flexible schedules

- Professional development opportunities

- Opportunity for Employee Referral Bonuses

- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provided

Successful candidates will have excellent attention to detail regarding report submission, possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, have the ability to liaise and collaborate with professionals in various disciplines and at different levels in order to best advocate for needs of children and be willing to travel to various settings for service provision.

Qualified candidates will possess a Bachelor’s Degree or higher from an accredited institution in a related health, human service or education field, as well as at least one year of professional experience with children ages birth – 3 with disabilities or developmental delays.

If College Degree is in another field of study, candidates must have at least 6 credits in early childhood development and/or special education. Successful candidates will have excellent attention to detail regarding report submission, possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, have the ability to liaise and collaborate with professionals in various disciplines and at different levels in order to best advocate for needs of children and be willing to travel to various settings for service provision.

For more than 30 years, TheraCare has been dedicated to setting the standards for excellence for multi-service healthcare, developmental and educational programs. Our philosophy reflects professionals working collaboratively with families, communities and children to maximize each child’s potential.

TheraCare is an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.