Child Development Specialist

Positive Development; Montrose; On-site; CAD 35,817 - 41,328; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Referral bonus of $1,000

Monthly technology stipend

401(k) with company matching

Paid new-hire training

Mileage reimbursement

Job summary

A community service organization is seeking a Child Development Specialist to work directly with children who have autism. This part-time position involves developing communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based interventions. The ideal candidate should possess a Bachelor's degree in a related field and have at least one year of experience working with children. Competitive pay, flexible schedules, and opportunities for progression are available. This role includes essential hands-on training and coaching from professionals in the field.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience working with children.
• Experience with autism is a plus.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Work one-on-one with children to develop skills.
• Document session notes and progress towards goals.
• Collaborate with clinicians and families.

Skills

Passion for working with children

Positive attitude

Great communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Job description

Title: Child Development Specialist

Work Location: Pasadena, CA; Cananda Flintridge, La Crescenta, Burbank, Los Angeles, Alhambra, Pasadena, South Pasadena, CA & surrounding areas

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $26–$30 per hour

Who We Are: At Positive Development we believe every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive. Our team works with children who have autism or other developmental differences, helping them build important life skills through fun and engagement.

What You’ll Do

As a Play‑Based Autism Professional (also referred to as a Developmental Paraprofessional (DPP)), you’ll work one‑on‑one with children to help them develop communication, social, and daily living skills. Your role is hands‑on—helping kids learn through play and conversation to grow in their ability to think, create, communicate, and meaningfully connect with others. You will document session notes and progress toward goals and collaborate closely with clinicians, supervisors, and families to support growth.

Compensation & Schedules

• Pay Range: $26–$30 per hour, based on experience and education
• Predetermined, flexible schedules: 2-, 3-, or 5‑day per week options with a single direct rate of pay
• Optional Saturday shifts available for additional hours

What We’re Looking For

• A passion for working with children and teens and helping them grow
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Experience with children (autism experience is a plus)
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and at least 1 year of experience working with children
• Great communication and interpersonal skills—working closely with children, families, and teammates
• Reliability, commitment to a consistent schedule, and a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation (within a 30–40 minute drive radius)
• The ability to complete certain physical tasks: lift and carry up to 40 pounds; physically position your body with clients—including sitting, kneeling, or crouching; respond to client needs, adjusting positioning quickly to ensure safety and well‑being

Why Choose Positive Development?

• We are introducing a new highly successful model of autism care that requires relational interventions and fewer hours per session, improving clinical outcomes
• You will receive hands‑on support and coaching from expert clinicians and supervisors
• Opportunities for role progression and hourly pay rate increases after six months
• Potential for credentialing in Developmental Relationship‑Based Intervention
• Paid new‑hire training (20 hours) and ongoing learning opportunities
• Periodic bonuses for successful completion of clinical campaigns

Competitive Benefits & Job Perks

• Referral bonus $1,000 for successful staff referrals
• Monthly technology stipend to offset cellphone or WiFi charges
• Paid drive time between clients and mileage reimbursement at the IRS rate
• 401(k) with company matching
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage (available for full‑time roles—30+ hours)
• Generous time off: part‑time employees receive flex days in exchange for federal holidays

Matches with clients are contingent upon clearing a background check and successful completion of training.

Positive Development is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).