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Program Development Specialist Jobs in California

Adecco

Talent Development Specialist

Laguna Hills, CA

$22.01/hr

... Talent Development Specialist in Anaheim, CA and Laguna Hills, CA! Pay rate: $22.01/hr Shift ... Creating learning programs to help employees get better at their jobs Education/Certification ...

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All JobsProgram Development Specialist JobsProgram Development Specialist Jobs in California

Program Development Specialist information

See California salary details

$36K

$101.4K

$114K

How much do program development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for program development specialist in California is $101,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,500.00 and $112,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Program Development Specialist collaborate with other departments to ensure successful program implementation?

Program Development Specialists frequently work cross-functionally with teams such as marketing, finance, and operations to align program objectives and resources. They often facilitate meetings, gather feedback, and coordinate project timelines to ensure all stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the development process. Effective collaboration helps to identify potential challenges early and leverage the expertise of various departments, resulting in smoother program rollouts and better outcomes. Strong communication and project management skills are essential for fostering these interdepartmental relationships.

What does a Program Development Specialist do?

A Program Development Specialist is responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating programs within an organization. They assess needs, develop program plans, coordinate resources, and monitor progress to ensure objectives are met. Their work often involves collaborating with stakeholders, analyzing data, and making recommendations for program improvement. This role is common in educational, nonprofit, and governmental organizations and requires strong organizational and communication skills.

What is the difference between Program Development Specialist vs Program Coordinator?

AspectProgram Development SpecialistProgram Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in related field, certifications in program management or development often preferredBachelor's degree, experience in administrative or program support roles
Work EnvironmentDesigning, planning, and developing programs, often in office settings or project sitesOverseeing program logistics, coordinating activities, and supporting implementation
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, educational institutionsNonprofits, government, healthcare, educational institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in program creation and developmentLearning about program support and coordination tasks

The Program Development Specialist focuses on designing and developing new programs, requiring strategic planning skills and relevant certifications. In contrast, the Program Coordinator handles the day-to-day logistics and support for existing programs. Both roles are vital in program management but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Development Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Development Specialist, you need expertise in program design, project management, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and experience in program evaluation. Familiarity with project management software (like Asana or Trello), data analysis tools (such as Excel or SPSS), and sometimes certifications in project management (e.g., PMP) are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate across teams set top professionals apart in this role. These skills ensure effective development, implementation, and continuous improvement of programs to meet organizational goals.
What are popular job titles related to Program Development Specialist jobs in California? For Program Development Specialist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Development Specialist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Program Development Specialist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Program Development Specialist jobs? Cities in California with the most Program Development Specialist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Program Development Specialist jobs in CA? For Program Development Specialist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Program Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Development Specialist job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,393 per year, or $48.7 per hour.
Child Development Specialist

Child Development Specialist

Positive Development

Buellton, CA • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Part-time

Posted 23 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.

Apply