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Early Child Development Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Lead Teacher

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

About Child Development Schools Child Development Schools is a childcare and early education provider with 270+ centers across 11 states, serving over 30,000 children ages six weeks to twelve years.

Center Director

Panama City, FL · On-site

$41K - $57K/yr

... the early childhood experience, we're looking for passionate educators and visionary leaders ready to step up and make a real difference. Why Join Us. At Child Development Schools, you're not just ...

Cook

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

About Child Development Schools Child Development Schools is a childcare and early education provider with 270+ centers across 11 states, serving over 30,000 children ages six weeks to twelve years.

Cook

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

About Child Development Schools Child Development Schools is a childcare and early education provider with 270+ centers across 11 states, serving over 30,000 children ages six weeks to twelve years.

The Head Start Teacher provides high-quality early education and child development services, including for children with disabilities that promote children's cognitive, social, and emotional growth ...

Bus Driver

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Join Us and Shape the Future of Early Childhood Education. Split shift from 7:00 am to 9:00 am and 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Full time hours also available if interested. At Child Development Schools and ...

Showing results 41-60

Early Child Development information

See Florida salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do early child development jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for early child development in Florida is $14.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $15.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is early child development?

Early child development refers to the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth that occurs in children from birth to around eight years old. This period is crucial because it lays the foundation for lifelong learning, health, and well-being. Early experiences, including relationships with caregivers, nutrition, and stimulation, play a significant role in shaping a child's brain and overall development. Supporting early child development can help children reach their full potential and succeed in later life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in early child development?

To excel in Early Child Development, you need a background in early childhood education, child psychology, and child safety, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications such as CDA or state teaching credentials. Familiarity with curriculum planning tools, developmental assessment software, and educational frameworks like Montessori or Reggio Emilia is typically required. Patience, creativity, strong communication, and nurturing interpersonal skills help professionals engage young children and collaborate with families. These skills ensure a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment that fosters healthy cognitive, emotional, and social development in children.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in early child development, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Early Child Development often encounter challenges such as managing diverse classroom behaviors, addressing varying developmental needs, and communicating effectively with parents and families. These challenges can be managed by staying updated with evidence-based teaching strategies, collaborating with colleagues for support and idea sharing, and engaging in regular professional development. Building strong relationships with families and fostering a positive, inclusive classroom environment also play a crucial role in overcoming these obstacles and ensuring the best outcomes for children.

What is the difference between Early Child Development vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectEarly Child DevelopmentPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild development certifications, associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood educationTypically a preschool teaching certification or associate degree in early childhood education
Work EnvironmentHomes, clinics, early intervention centers, community programsPreschools, daycare centers, private or public educational settings
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, social services, early intervention programsEducational institutions, daycare centers, private preschools

Early Child Development focuses on supporting children's overall growth, including health, social skills, and developmental milestones, often working in healthcare or social service settings. In contrast, a Preschool Teacher primarily educates and cares for children in classroom settings, focusing on early learning and school readiness. Both roles require early childhood education credentials but differ in scope and work environment.

What could I do with an early child development degree?

An early child development degree prepares individuals for careers such as preschool teacher, childcare center director, early intervention specialist, or family support worker. These roles often require knowledge of child growth, development, and behavior, and may involve working in educational, healthcare, or community settings, sometimes with certification or licensing requirements.
Infographic showing various Early Child Development job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,895 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

$14 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Childcare Lead Teacher: Pensacola, FL (Bowman Ave)
Your role
As a Lead Teacher at Child Development Schools, you will help create a classroom filled with discovery, creativity, learning, and joy. Each day, you will guide children through meaningful experiences that encourage curiosity, confidence, kindness, and growth. From hands-on activities and storytelling to everyday learning moments, you will shape a warm and welcoming environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to explore the world around them.
You will serve as a trusted partner to families, a positive role model for children, and an important part of our collaborative teaching team dedicated to making early childhood education engaging, nurturing, safe, and fun.
What your day looks like:
  • Plan and deliver age-appropriate lessons and activities for the [AGE GROUP] classroom
  • Keep the classroom safe, organized, and compliant with licensing and ratio requirements
  • Observe and document each child's development and share progress with families regularly
  • Build relationships with parents through daily communication and scheduled conferences
  • Complete required documentation including attendance, incident reports, and assessments

Pay and benefits
Pay: [PAY RANGE] per hour, based on experience and education.
Full-time employees receive:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability
  • 401(k)
  • 9 company-paid holidays and 8 days of PTO
  • 50% tuition discount for your own children enrolled at a CDS center
  • Up to $5,250 in annual tuition reimbursement for continued education
  • Access to PerkSpot for discounts on major brands and services
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - offers professional and confidential services to help you and your loved ones quality of life.
  • Coaching, mentoring, and ongoing professional development

Requirements
  • At least 18 years old
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to pass a background check
  • Completion of 12 hours of childcare training within 30 days of hire (we will help you get there)
  • Genuine care for children and a commitment to their safety and well-being
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to build relationships with families
  • Physical ability to meet the demands of working with young children
  • A degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education and prior experience in a licensed childcare center are a plus, but not required. We hire for character and train for skill.

About Child Development Schools
Child Development Schools is a childcare and early education provider with 270+ centers across 11 states, serving over 30,000 children ages six weeks to twelve years. We are committed to providing high-quality developmental education and supporting the families and communities we serve.
We believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplace. Child Development Schools provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.