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Cognitive Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Magic Moments Learning Center

Assistant Teacher

Clermont, FL · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

They inspire children to be lifelong learners using our nationally recognized curriculum that promotes social, physical, verbal, and cognitive development. * Our Teachers are committed to making ...

Children First Learning Center

Be Seen First

Infant Toddler Teacher

Detroit, MI · On-site

$30K - $38K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience nurturing infants and toddlers while supporting their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development through age-appropriate activities and positive ...

Children First Learning Center

Be Seen First

Infant Toddler Teacher

Detroit, MI · On-site

$30K - $38K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience nurturing infants and toddlers while supporting their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development through age-appropriate activities and positive ...

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$33K

$77.4K

$133K

How much do cognitive development jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive development in the United States is $77,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $90,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Cognitive Development Specialist, you need a background in psychology or education, with expertise in child development and assessment techniques, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with cognitive assessment tools, developmental screening instruments, and data analysis software is typically required. Strong observational skills, patience, and effective communication help in building trust with children and collaborating with parents and educators. These skills ensure accurate assessments, individualized intervention plans, and positive developmental outcomes for children.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in cognitive development research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in cognitive development research often encounter challenges such as recruiting diverse participant groups, controlling for external variables, and interpreting complex behavioral data. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including psychologists, educators, and statisticians—helps address these issues by bringing varied expertise to study design and data analysis. Staying updated with methodological advancements and fostering open communication within research teams also enhances the quality and impact of findings, making the role both intellectually demanding and rewarding.

What is cognitive development?

Cognitive development refers to the process by which individuals acquire, organize, and learn to use knowledge and skills throughout their lives. This process includes the development of thinking, problem-solving, memory, language, and decision-making abilities. Cognitive development is most rapid during childhood, but continues into adulthood as people encounter new experiences and challenges. Theories by researchers like Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky help explain how cognitive abilities evolve as children grow and interact with their environment.

What are some cognitive jobs?

Cognitive jobs involve tasks that require mental processes such as problem-solving, decision-making, memory, and attention. Examples include roles like cognitive scientist, neuropsychologist, research analyst, and roles in artificial intelligence development that focus on understanding and modeling human cognition. These jobs often require strong analytical skills and knowledge of psychology, neuroscience, or related fields.

What is the difference between Cognitive Development vs Child Psychologist?

AspectCognitive DevelopmentChild Psychologist
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in psychology, education, or related field; often a focus on child developmentMaster's or Doctorate in Psychology; licensure required; specialized training in child therapy
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, educational institutions, early childhood programsClinics, schools, private practice, hospitals
Industry UsageEducational and developmental research, curriculum designTherapeutic intervention, psychological assessment, counseling

While both roles focus on children's growth, Cognitive Development primarily involves studying and supporting how children learn and develop mentally, often through research and educational strategies. Child Psychologists diagnose and treat emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues, providing therapy and assessments. Understanding these differences helps parents and educators choose the right professional for specific developmental or psychological needs.

More about Cognitive Development jobs
What states have the most Cognitive Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Cognitive Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cognitive Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cognitive Development jobs are:
Cognitive Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cognitive Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $77,438 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
Child Development Assistant

Child Development Assistant

Foundation Health, LLC

Fairbanks, AK

$20/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Overview

Embark on a fulfilling career journey as a Child Development Assistant and contribute to shaping the foundation of young minds. Are you passionate about supporting children's holistic growth and development? Join our team where you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families. As a Child Development Assistant, you'll work collaboratively with experienced educators to create enriching experiences that promote social, emotional, and cognitive development. If you're dedicated to providing high-quality care and education to children, we welcome you to apply and become an integral part of our dynamic team.

Pay & Benefits:

  • Compensation: $20 hourly wage
  • Additional Pay: Shift Differential, Annual Increases, Paid Time Off
  • *Benefits: medical, vision, dental, 401k with employer match
  • Education Benefits: FHP Tuition Assistance, Student Loan Forgiveness
  • Other Benefits: Onsite Gym, Wellness Programs, Discount programs 
  • 2 Positions:
  • *1 Full-time, Days, 40 Hours per week, 5x8-hour Day Shifts
  • 1 Per Diem up to 20 hours per week, Day Shifts

No Holidays, No Weekends

This position assists the teacher in a classroom within the same age group who are at similar developmental levels. The Learning Center is a NAREA (North American Reggio Emilia Alliance) registered school that follows a Reggio inspired philosophy with a play based curriculum. Assistant teachers are educators that promote experiences providing high quality, developmentally appropriate, research based, cognitive and emotional outcomes. Assistant Teachers understand that the foundations for school and life readiness begins at birth. Assistant Teachers will work with the classroom teacher to implement the chosen curriculum in a way that accounts for research on brain development and child directed learning. Teaching staff will engage in the pursuit of personal and department wide continuous quality improvement.

About Fairbanks Memorial Hospital

Fairbanks Memorial Hospital is a non-profit facility owned by the Greater Fairbanks Community Hospital Foundation. A Joint Commission-accredited facility with 152 licensed beds, Fairbanks Memorial Hospital is the primary referral center for residents of Alaska's interior with a strong patient-to-nurse ratio and Shared Leadership Infrastructure. In addition to our exceptional clinical environment, our location offers incomparable lifestyle rewards away from work. In Fairbanks, small-town living, spectacular natural beauty and endless recreation combine to create a one-of-a-kind place to live, work and play.

Responsibilities
  • Assists with planning and implementing the chosen curriculum. Understands child directed learning and play based practice. Classroom planning is based on objective observation and is responsive to the needs of the enrolled children. The philosophy of the program will be supported through the lesson plan implementation and this position will support the highest quality of service.
  • Provides care and learning in a setting that is safe, healthy, nurturing and responsive to each child, meeting the State of Alaska licensing standards. Will be required to promote teamwork with families and co-workers through reflective practice. This position will act as a professional demonstrating caring and cooperation that support productive work and professional satisfaction.
  • Demonstrate knowledge that families and culture are of primary importance in children's development. Because the family and the early childhood professional have a common interest in the child's well-being, we acknowledge a primary responsibility to bring about communication, cooperation and collaboration between the home and program in ways that enhance the child's development.
  • Continuous quality improvement will be prioritized through participation in quality initiatives and other learning opportunities.
  • Assists with the purchasing/ notification of need, for classroom materials that are needed to support children's learning. Rotation and implementation of classroom environments will be required. Classroom environments will reflect research based, best practice. Classroom cleaning and upkeep as needed.
  • Will be required to meet State of Alaska Child Care Licensing, accreditation and mandatory TLC requirements for continuing education and training. 

    • Performs all functions according to established policies, procedures, regulatory and accreditation requirements, as well as applicable professional standards. Provides all customers of Foundation Health with an excellent service experience by consistently demonstrating our core and leader behaviors each and every day.

    Qualifications

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

    Current Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or 12 or more Early Childhood Education (ECE) credits from an accredited institution. Child Development Associate or Early Childhood Education credits can be supplemented with four (4) years of related experience.

    A minimum of two years of experience working with children. Must be at least 18 years of age, 21 years of age for locations that require being left with children alone. Must have knowledge of Developmentally Appropriate Practice for each age group represented. Must be able to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.

     

    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

    Associates degree in Early Childhood Development or Child Development, or Early Childhood Special Education.

    Additional related education and/or experience preferred.

    EEO/AAP employer; qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.

    Employment Type: CONTRACTOR

    Apply