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Masters Degree Child Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Imh

Child Development Teacher

Solana Beach, CA · On-site

Degree will be verified. * Certificate in Early Childhood Development (CDA - Child Development Associate) Essential Functions This position works under broad guidelines dependent on the age ...

Sunny Days

Child Development Specialist

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.50/hr

Master's degree preferred/ required (for Orange County only) in child development, early childhood, teaching or related field OR a special education teaching credential * Early Intervention ...

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How much do masters degree child development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for masters degree child development in the United States is $112,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,500.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a master's in child and adolescent development?

A master's in child and adolescent development prepares individuals for roles such as child life specialists, early childhood educators, developmental specialists, and school counselors. Graduates often work in educational settings, healthcare, social services, or research, utilizing skills in child development, assessment, and intervention.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a career with a Master's Degree in Child Development, and why are they important?

A career with a Master's Degree in Child Development requires deep knowledge of developmental psychology, assessment techniques, and program planning, typically supported by a master's degree in child development or a related field. Familiarity with developmental screening tools, educational software, and data analysis systems is often essential. Strong communication, empathy, and cultural sensitivity help professionals build trust with children, families, and interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure effective support for children's growth, learning, and well-being in educational, clinical, or community settings.

What is the difference between Masters Degree Child Development vs Child Life Specialist?

CriteriaMasters Degree Child DevelopmentChild Life Specialist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Child Development or related fieldBachelor's degree + certification (CCLS)
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, research, policyHospitals, pediatric units, healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, education agenciesHospitals, healthcare organizations, pediatric care

The Masters Degree in Child Development focuses on understanding child growth, research, and education, often in academic or policy roles. In contrast, a Child Life Specialist applies child development principles directly in healthcare settings to support children and families during medical experiences. Both roles require a background in child development, but their work environments and specific certifications differ.

What can you become with a child development degree?

A child development degree can lead to careers such as preschool or childcare center director, early childhood educator, child life specialist, or developmental specialist. These roles often require knowledge of child growth, behavior, and development, along with relevant certifications or licenses. The degree prepares individuals to work in educational, healthcare, or social service settings focused on children's well-being.

What can I do with a master's degree in child development?

A master's degree in child development opens up a variety of career paths in both educational and clinical settings. Graduates often work as early childhood educators, child life specialists, program directors, or developmental therapists. Many also pursue roles in research, policy advocacy, or continue their education toward a PhD. The degree provides advanced knowledge of child growth, learning, and behavior, making graduates valuable in schools, hospitals, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

What types of career advancement opportunities are available for professionals with a master's degree in child development?

With a master's degree in child development, professionals can pursue a variety of advancement opportunities, such as moving into supervisory or administrative roles within educational or childcare settings, becoming program directors, or specializing further in areas like early intervention or developmental research. Many also transition into policy-making, advocacy, or higher education positions, such as college instructors or researchers. Additionally, pursuing certifications or additional training can open doors to leadership positions in nonprofit organizations or government agencies focused on children and families.

Is a master's in child development worth it?

A master's degree in child development prepares individuals for roles such as child development specialists, early childhood educators, and program coordinators, often leading to higher salaries and advanced responsibilities. It provides specialized knowledge in child growth, learning, and behavior, and may require certification or licensing depending on the position and location.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying jobs in child development often include senior roles such as child development director, pediatric neuropsychologist, or early childhood education administrator, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions typically offer salaries exceeding $80,000 annually and may involve leadership, research, or specialized clinical skills.
More about Masters Degree Child Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Masters Degree Child Development jobs? Cities with the most Masters Degree Child Development job openings:
What states have the most Masters Degree Child Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Masters Degree Child Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Masters Degree Child Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Masters Degree Child Development jobs are:
Masters Degree Child Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Masters Degree Child Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,050 per year, or $53.9 per hour.
Child Development Specialist

Child Development Specialist

Positive Development

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Part-time

Posted 27 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.

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