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Entry Level Cda Credential Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Navy

$21.77/hr

A qualified candidate possesses the following: Entry Level (CY-1702-01) * Ability to communicate ... OR A valid Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or Military School-Age (MSA) credential; OR ...

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Entry Level Cda Credential information

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$19.5K

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How much do entry level cda credential jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cda credential in the United States is $42,093.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,000.00 and $47,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level CDA Credential holder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level CDA (Child Development Associate) Credential holder, you need a solid understanding of early childhood development, basic teaching principles, and completion of the CDA training and assessment process. Familiarity with classroom management systems, child observation tools, and state licensing regulations is also important. Strong communication, patience, and a nurturing attitude help you effectively support young children's learning and build positive relationships with families. These skills and qualifications are crucial for creating safe, developmentally appropriate environments that foster children's growth and school readiness.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cda Credential vs Child Care Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Cda CredentialChild Care Assistant
Required CredentialsChild Development Associate (CDA) CredentialMay require a high school diploma and on-the-job training, but often no formal certification
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centers, early childhood education settingsDaycare centers, preschools, early childhood programs
Employer & Industry UsageEarly childhood education providers, childcare agenciesChildcare facilities, early learning centers

The Entry Level Cda Credential is a formal certification demonstrating specialized early childhood education training, often required for teaching roles. A Child Care Assistant may work in similar environments but typically does not require formal certification. The credential can enhance job prospects and earning potential, whereas the assistant role may serve as an entry point into the industry.

What types of support or mentorship are typically available for entry-level professionals pursuing their CDA Credential in early childhood education settings?

Entry-level professionals working toward their CDA Credential often benefit from structured mentorship and support programs offered by their employers, such as regular feedback from experienced teachers, access to professional development workshops, and guidance from supervising staff. Many childcare centers foster collaborative environments where new hires can observe best practices, participate in team meetings, and receive assistance with the CDA application process. Additionally, supervisors or lead teachers may provide ongoing coaching to help candidates develop classroom management skills and meet competency standards required for credentialing.

What is an Entry Level CDA Credential?

An Entry Level CDA Credential refers to the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, designed for individuals starting their careers in early childhood education. It certifies that the holder possesses the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively with young children, usually from birth to age five. Earning the CDA credential involves completing specific training hours, gaining work experience, and passing an assessment. This credential is recognized nationwide and can help individuals qualify for entry-level positions in preschools, daycare centers, and other child care settings.
More about Entry Level Cda Credential jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cda Credential jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Cda Credential job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cda Credential jobs? The most popular types of Cda Credential jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cda Credential jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cda Credential jobs are:
Entry Level Cda Credential jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cda Credential job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Locum Tenens, 2% Internship, 17% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,093 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Child and Youth Program Assistant

CNIC Careers

New Orleans, LA

$18.75/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

CYP ASSISTANTS MULTI-LEVEL (Flexible work schedule)
Work directly with children and youth, keeping them actively engaged, well-cared for, and safe while participating in the CYP. The CYP Assistant's day includes helping children develop social skills such as making friends and conflict resolution; make healthy choices whether it be choosing nutritional snacks or appropriate recreational activities; build self-help and school readiness skills; and explore the environment around them.
Qualifications:

Resumes must include information which demonstrates experience and knowledge, skills, and ability (KSAs) as they relate to this position. Applicants are encouraged to be clear and specific when describing their experience level and KSAs.

A qualified candidate possesses the following:

Entry Level (CY-1702-01)

  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.

  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

  • Ability to complete all Department of the Navy (DoN) training requirements within the specified timeframe.

  • Ability to promote and foster effective working relationships with children, youth, and coworkers.

  • Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team.

Intermediate Level (CY-1702-01)

Entry Level abilities plus:

  • Knowledge of basic child and youth development principles to meet the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development needs of children and youth.

  • Ability to implement developmentally appropriate principles and practices to provide high-quality direct care and education and development.

  • Ability to interpret a curriculum or activity plan.

  • Ability to follow written instructions.

  • Ability to plan and organize, and work cooperatively as a member of a team.

  • Ability to promote and foster effective working relationships with children, youth, and coworkers.

  • Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team.

  • Six (6) months of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting.

Target Level (CY-1702-02)

Entry and Intermediate Levels' knowledge and abilities plus:

  • Knowledge of child and youth development principles in order to appropriately inform the efficient and effective program response to meet the needs of children and youth.

  • Skill to implement developmentally appropriate child and youth development principles, practices, and services in order to provide high-quality direct care and education for children and youth, either individually or within groups.

  • Skill to promote and foster effective working relationships with children, youth, and coworkers.

  • Skill to work cooperatively as a member of a team.

  • Skill in verbal communication in order to provide basic program information and explain CYP processes and procedures.

  • One (1) year of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting.

Education:

**Must provide a copy of your H.S. Diploma, GED, or College Transcripts (showing degree awarded/conferred) when you apply.**

Entry Level (CY-1702-01)

A successful candidate must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent.

Note: Prior experience working with children and/or youth is preferred.

Intermediate Level (CY-1702-01)

A successful candidate must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent, have six (6) months of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting AND have the following:

Completion of Navy Entry Level training requirement (Army, Air Force, and Marine equivalent accepted).

Target Level (CY-1702-02)

A successful candidate must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent, possess one (1) year of experience working with children or youth in a child and youth setting AND have one of the following:

Completion of the DoD standardized training courses;

OR

A valid Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or Military School-Age (MSA) credential;

OR

A minimum of a 2-year degree in degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, Youth Recreation, Physical Education, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Youth Development, or other field related to Pre-K or Primary Education.

Note: If your degree has not been awarded and/or you possess certificates of completion for DoD approved competency-based training courses, and/or a valid CDA/MSA credential(s), you MUST also provide a copy of your HS Diploma or equivalent.

Employment Type: OTHER

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