Child Development Specialist

Positive Development • Belleville, IL

17h • $22 - $28

About The Position

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.

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:
• 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

Responsibilities

• 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

Benefits

• $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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees