Early Childhood Associate information
See salary details
$10.49 - $11.23
2% of jobs
$11.96 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$11.23 - $11.98
23% of jobs
The median wage is $12.44 / hr.
$11.98 - $12.72
39% of jobs
$12.94 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$12.72 - $13.46
36% of jobs
How much do early childhood associate jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for early childhood associate in the United States is $12.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $12.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Early Childhood Associates are professionals who support the development and education of young children, typically from birth to age five, in settings such as preschools, daycare centers, and early learning programs. They assist lead teachers in planning and implementing activities that foster social, emotional, and intellectual growth. Their responsibilities often include supervising children, maintaining a safe environment, and communicating with parents about their child's progress. Early Childhood Associates play a vital role in laying the foundation for children's lifelong learning and development.
To thrive as an Early Childhood Associate, you need a background in child development, early childhood education, and classroom management, often supported by a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent certification. Familiarity with early childhood curriculum frameworks, assessment tools, and basic educational software is typically required. Patience, creativity, strong communication, and the ability to build trust with young children and their families are vital soft skills. These competencies are essential for fostering a safe, nurturing, and effective learning environment that supports the holistic development of young children.
Early Childhood Associates work closely with lead teachers to implement lesson plans, support classroom management, and provide individual attention to children as needed. They often assist in preparing educational materials, supervising activities, and ensuring a safe learning environment. Collaboration with other staff members, such as aides and specialists, is also common to coordinate care and address each child's developmental needs. Open communication and teamwork are essential for ensuring that daily routines run smoothly and every child receives appropriate support.
What cities are hiring for Early Childhood Associate jobs?
Cities with the most Early Childhood Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Early Childhood jobs?
The most popular types of Early Childhood jobs are:
What states have the most Early Childhood Associate jobs?
States with the most job openings for Early Childhood Associate jobs include:
