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Early Childhood Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Early Childhood Director

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

Training & development * Tuition assistance Please submit a resume, a letter demonstrating your ... Position Summary ARK Academy is seeking a talented, caring, and passionate Early Childhood Director ...

Early Childhood Aide

Kansas City, MO ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Help implement lessons that are developmentally appropriate, hands-on and engaging * Use a variety ... Strong knowledge of early childhood development principles and practices. * Strong communication ...

Are you ready to create a meaningful difference in the lives of young children using your early childhood development skills? Vogel, a leading provider of quality early childhood programming, is ...

Early Childhood Aide

Saint Joseph, MO ยท On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

As a Early Childhood Aide, you will play a vital role in fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment that promotes the social, emotional, and cognitive development of our students. Your ...

Early Childhood Teacher

Ames, IA

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

The Child Development Laboratory School in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies is seeking an Early Childhood Teacher. This position plans and implements developmentally appropriate ...

Early Childhood Teacher

Ames, IA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

The Child Development Laboratory School in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies is seeking an Early Childhood Teacher. This position plans and implements developmentally appropriate ...

Showing results 41-60

Early Childhood Development information

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$17

$25

How much do early childhood development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for early childhood development in the United States is $17.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Professionals in Early Childhood Development often encounter challenges such as managing diverse classroom behaviors, addressing varying developmental needs, and maintaining effective communication with parents. These challenges can be managed by implementing consistent routines, engaging in ongoing professional development, and collaborating closely with colleagues and families. Building strong relationships with children and caregivers, as well as utilizing evidence-based teaching strategies, helps create a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

What is early childhood development?

Early childhood development refers to the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth that occurs in children from birth to around eight years old. This period is crucial because the experiences and environment during these years significantly shape a child's future learning, behavior, and health. Professionals in this field support children's development through activities, education, and care that foster safe, nurturing, and stimulating environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in early childhood development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Early Childhood Development, you need knowledge of child development principles, early education techniques, and usually a degree or certification in early childhood education. Familiarity with curriculum planning tools, developmental screening assessments, and classroom management systems is important. Patience, creativity, and strong communication skills help build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues. These skills are crucial for fostering a safe, nurturing, and effective learning environment that supports young children's growth and development.

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

AspectEarly Childhood DevelopmentPreschool Teacher
CredentialsChild development certifications, degrees in early childhood educationPreschool teaching certifications, CDA or state-specific credentials
Work EnvironmentDaycares, early intervention programs, clinicsPreschools, daycare centers, private or public schools
Industry UsageFocuses on overall child development, assessments, and interventionFocuses on classroom teaching, curriculum delivery, and student engagement

Early Childhood Development professionals focus on supporting overall child growth, assessments, and intervention strategies, often working across various settings. In contrast, Preschool Teachers primarily deliver educational curricula in classroom settings. While both roles require early childhood education credentials, their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

More about Early Childhood Development jobs

What cities are hiring for Early Childhood Development jobs?

Cities with the most Early Childhood Development job openings:

What states have the most Early Childhood Development jobs?

States with the most job openings for Early Childhood Development jobs include:

Infographic showing various Early Childhood Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,364 per year, or $17 per hour.

Early Childhood Director

ARK ACADEMY

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Tuition assistance

Please submit a resume, a letter demonstrating your interest in the position, and the names and contact information for two references.
Position Summary
ARK Academy is seeking a talented, caring, and passionate Early Childhood Director to join our team ​​for the 2026-2027 academic year. The Director is responsible for leading and overseeing the Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten program, ensuring that every student experiences a high-quality classroom environment that fosters strong character development and supports their holistic growth. The Director is actively engaged in instruction, while guiding staff, curriculum, and program development. The Director works closely with the Principal to uphold the school’s mission, maintain regulatory compliance, and foster strong relationships with families and staff.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Classroom Leadership
  • Serve as both an instructional leader and active classroom teacher, dedicating a significant portion of time to teaching and student engagement.
  • Model best practices in early childhood education, including classroom management, instructional strategies, and developmentally appropriate teaching.
  • Support and reinforce a school culture grounded in strong character, compassion, and respect.
  • Collaborate with teachers to design and refine developmentally appropriate curriculum and learning plans that support language development, early literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional growth, while meeting regulatory requirements and family expectations.
  • Monitor and assess program effectiveness and make ongoing improvements.
Staff Leadership & Development 
  • Recruit, interview, and onboard early childhood staff.
  • Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
  • Conduct regular staff meetings and professional development sessions.
  • Foster a collaborative, supportive, and growth-oriented team culture.
  • Ensure staff adhere to school policies, procedures, and professional expectations.
Family Engagement
  • Build strong relationships with families through open, consistent communication.
  • Meet with parents to discuss student development, progress, and any academic or behavioral concerns.
  • Provide guidance and support to families on early childhood development and learning strategies.
  • Organize family engagement opportunities and events.
Operations & Facilities Management
  • Ensure the early childhood facility is safe, well-maintained, and fully stocked.
  • Oversee classroom organization and learning environments to ensure they are engaging and developmentally appropriate.
Administration & Compliance
  • Assist the Principal in managing the early childhood program budget and ensure effective use of resources.
  • Maintain accurate records, including licensing, attendance, and student documentation.
  • Support enrollment efforts and program growth as needed.
  • Ensure the program meets all state licensing requirements and maintains full compliance.
  • Lead or support efforts toward program accreditation, including preparation, documentation, and continuous quality improvement.
Professional Responsibilities
  • Stay current on best practices, regulations, and trends in early childhood education.
  • Participate in faculty meetings, school events, and collaborative planning as required. 
  • Uphold and reflect the mission, philosophy, and core values of ARK Academy in all professional interactions. 

Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 12 semester units in Early Childhood Education/Child Development.
  • At least 3 semester units in administration, leadership, or staff relations.
  • Valid Child Development Program Director Permit (or eligibility to obtain).
  • Minimum of 3–5 years years of teaching experience in a licensed child care center.
  • At least 1 year of leadership experience (e.g., Site Supervisor, Assistant Director, or equivalent).
  • Strong knowledge of licensing requirements through the California Department of Social Services.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
Preferred:
  • Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Educational Leadership.
  • Experience opening or expanding a school program.
Regulatory Requirements:
  • CPR and First Aid Certification
  • Fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice.
  • Health screening, including proof of Tuberculosis clearance.
  • Proof of eligibility to work in the United States.