Child Development Specialist

Positive Development; Whittier (CA); On-site; USD 35,817 - 41,328; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

$1000 Referral Bonus

Monthly Technology Stipend

Paid training

Job summary

Positive Development, located in Whittier, California, seeks dedicated individuals to work closely with children, helping them develop vital communication and social skills. This role provides an opportunity to make a real impact while gaining relevant experience for careers in psychology, education, and health.

Ideal candidates are empathetic and reliable, with at least a Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Compensation includes hourly pay of $26-30, along with various benefits and mentorship opportunities.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of volunteer or work experience with children.
• Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Work one-on-one with children to build communication and social skills.
• Track progress and document session notes.

Skills

Communication skills

Patience

Empathy

Reliability

Enthusiasm

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Job description

Mission

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. Make a real impact. Build real skills.

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.

Candidate Profile

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 a 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

You’ll work one‑on‑one with children in their homes and/or a center based environment 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)

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

• 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 outcomes

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.