Child Development Specialist

Positive Development; Jersey City (NJ); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Referral Bonus

Monthly Technology Stipend

Paid drive time between clients

Paid training

Job summary

Positive Development is offering a Part-Time Child Development Specialist position in Jersey City, NJ. The role involves coaching autistic children one-on-one in home-based or center settings, focusing on communication, social, and daily living skills through play and relationship-based approaches.

Ideal candidates are students or professionals seeking hands-on experience in psychology, social work, OT/SLP, or related fields, with a flexible schedule and a commitment to growth.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; 18+ years old.
• Reliable transportation and a valid driver's license; 30–40 minute drive radius.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks: playing on the floor, lifting up to 40 lbs, kneeling, etc.
• Strong communication skills with families and teammates.

Responsibilities

• Coach children one-on-one in homes and center-based settings to build communication, social, and daily living skills.
• Create meaningful connections to help children think, create, and engage with their environment.
• Follow a relationship-based intervention model to maximize outcomes with fewer sessions.
• Document session notes and progress toward goals.
• Collaborate with clinicians and supervisors to develop clinical skills.
• Learn evidence-based developmental care concepts applied in real-life settings.

Skills

Strong communication

Reliable transportation

Patience and empathy

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Position Title: Child Development Specialist

Employment Type: Part-Time

Department: Clinical

Location: Onsite Jersey City, NJ & Surrounding areas

Direct Pay: $22-$28 per hour

Admin/Training: $20 per hour

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: $22–$28/hour (based on experience and education)

• Training / Admin Pay: $20/hour

• Part-time schedules:

o 3, 4, or 5 days per week M-F (most available hours are 3pm-8pm)

o Or Saturday and Sunday (most available hours are between 9a-3pm)

• Paid drive time + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate) between clients

This role is ideal for students balancing classes, internships, or graduate school.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED (must be 18+)

• Valid driver's license + reliable transportation (30–40 min drive radius).

• Ability to complete physical tasks, including:

o Playing on the floor/ground for up to two-three hours per session

o Lifting/carrying up to 40 lbs

o 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 at admin rate + mileage reimbursement between clients

• 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.