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Human Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Human Development information

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$9

$21

$31

How much do human development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for human development in California is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Human Development roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Human Development often navigate challenges such as balancing the diverse needs of individuals with organizational goals, addressing sensitive personal or cultural issues, and staying updated with evolving best practices in human growth and learning. Effective communication, continuous professional development, and strong collaboration with interdisciplinary teams can help address these challenges. Building trust and maintaining confidentiality are also key to fostering productive relationships and positive outcomes in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Human Development role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Human Development role, you need a solid background in psychology, education, or social sciences, often with at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, program evaluation software, and assessment systems is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication are crucial for building relationships and supporting diverse populations. These skills ensure impactful program delivery, accurate assessment, and positive developmental outcomes for individuals and communities.

What is the difference between Human Development vs Human Resources?

AspectHuman DevelopmentHuman Resources
Primary FocusEmployee growth, training, and organizational developmentRecruitment, employee relations, and administrative HR functions
Required CredentialsDegrees in education, psychology, or social sciences often preferredDegrees in business, management, or related fields; HR certifications common
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, nonprofits, government agenciesCorporate offices, HR departments, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in education, government, nonprofitsUsed across all industries with HR departments

While both roles focus on people and organizational well-being, Human Development emphasizes employee training and personal growth, often in educational or nonprofit settings. Human Resources centers on managing employee relations, recruitment, and administrative functions within organizations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in each field.

What is human development as a profession?

Human development as a profession focuses on understanding and supporting people’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth throughout their lives. Professionals in this field may work in education, counseling, social services, research, or program development, helping individuals and families thrive in various environments. The work often involves applying developmental theory and research to real-world issues such as early childhood education, family dynamics, aging, and mental health. Careers in human development can be found in schools, community organizations, healthcare facilities, and government agencies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Human Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Human Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Human Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Human Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Human Development job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,814 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Child Development Specialist

Child Development Specialist

Positive Development

Glendale, CA • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Positive Development rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Our Mission:
Make a real impact. Build real skills. Grow with us.
At Positive Development, we believe every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive and every burgeoning professional deserves meaningful work that builds real skills for the future.
We work one-on-one with autistic children, helping them build communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based, relationship-focused interactions.
Why This Role is Different:
This isn't a passive "observe and assist" job. You'll be actively coaching, connecting, and helping children grow; while gaining experience that's highly relevant for careers in:
  • Psychology
  • Social Work
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Speech Language Pathology
  • Education and Special Education
  • Counseling
  • Medicine and Health

This work is deeply rewarding, but it requires patience, emotional maturity, and commitment. You'll be supported every step of the way by experienced clinicians and supervisors who are invested in your growth.
We're especially excited to meet candidates who are:
  • Passionate about working with children and teens
  • Curious about human development and learning
  • Patient, empathetic, and enthusiastic
  • Reliable and committed to a consistent schedule (kids depend on consistency!)
  • Comfortable working directly with families in home-based setting

Great fits include:
Education majors, psychology students, pre-meds, nursing students, OT/SLP hopefuls, behavior technicians, camp counselors, teacher's assistants, childcare providers, direct support professionals, and caregivers.
What you'll do as a Child Development Specialist:
You'll work one-on-one with children in their homes and/or center based to:
  • Build communication, social, and daily living skills through play, conversation, and shared activities
  • Create meaningful connections that help children think, create, and engage with the world
  • Follow a relationship-based intervention model designed to achieve strong outcomes with fewer session hours
  • Track progress by documenting session notes and goal outcomes
  • Collaborate closely with clinicians and supervisors to build clinical skills and confidence
  • Learn how evidence-based developmental care works in real life, not just in textbooks

Pay and Schedules:
  • Direct Pay: $26-$30/hour (based on experience and education)
  • Training / Admin Pay: $20/hour
  • Part-time schedules:
    • 3, 4, or 5 days per week M-F (most available hours are 3pm-8pm)
    • Or Saturday and Sunday (most available hours are between 9a-3pm)
  • Paid drive time between clients + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate)

This role is ideal for students balancing classes, internships, or graduate school.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field and at least 1 year of volunteer or working experience with children required.
  • Valid driver's license + reliable transportation (30-40 min drive radius).
  • Ability to complete physical tasks, including:
    • Playing on the floor/ground for up to two-three hours per session
    • Lifting/carrying up to 40 lbs
    • Sitting, kneeling, crouching, or moving quickly to ensure child safety
  • Strong communication skills and professionalism with families and teammates

Training, growth, and career development:
We invest in you because strong clinicians start with strong support.
  • You don't need to be an expert- we'll train you.
  • Paid New Hire Training
  • Ongoing coaching and mentorship from expert clinicians
  • Opportunities for role progression, pay increases, and performance bonuses
  • Exposure to a cutting-edge model of autism care with measurable outcome

Benefits and Perks:
  • $1000 Referral Bonus
  • Monthly Technology Stipend
  • Paid drive time (Admin rate) + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate) between clients only
  • Paid training
  • Strong performers may request letters of recommendation for graduate or professional programs

Positive Development is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
Employment is contingent upon clearing a background check and successful completion of training.