As demand for quality childcare continues to rise, daycare jobs remain a steady and rewarding employment option across the U.S.
Whether you're looking to enter the workforce, return after time away, or shift to a more flexible career, early childhood care offers multiple entry points—with opportunities ranging from part-time assistant roles to full-time lead teacher positions.
This article explains the types of daycare jobs available, how to qualify, what to expect in terms of pay and hours, and how to find openings near you.
Types of Jobs in Daycare Centers
Daycare facilities hire for a range of positions depending on the age group served and the size of the center. Common roles include:
Childcare Assistant: Supports daily routines, playtime, and hygiene
Lead Teacher: Plans curriculum, manages classroom activities, ensures safety
Infant or Toddler Caregiver: Focuses on early developmental milestones
Floater/Substitute: Covers staff absences, often with flexible scheduling
After-School Program Staff: Works part-time with school-aged children
Administrative Roles: Handle enrollment, billing, and parent communication
Some positions are full-time with benefits, while others offer part-time hours that may suit students, parents, or retirees.
Qualifications and Training Needed
Most daycare jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent at minimum. Additional requirements depend on the role and the state.
Entry-level jobs: Often include paid on-the-job training
Lead teacher roles: May require a CDA (Child Development Associate) credential or associate degree in early childhood education
CPR/First Aid certification: Typically required before working with children
Background check: Mandatory in all licensed facilities
Some states and employers also require fingerprinting, immunization records, and child abuse prevention training. Training costs may be covered by the employeror reimbursed after hire.
What’s the Average Pay for Daycare Jobs?
Pay varies by state, role, and experience level. According to U.S. labor data:
Childcare assistants: $12–$18 per hour
Lead teachers: $15–$22 per hour
Center directors: $20–$30+ per hour
After-school care staff: Often paid hourly, with flexible part-time shifts
Many daycare jobs offer schedule stability, especially compared to retail or hospitality roles. Some centers also offer employee childcare discounts, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths.
Benefits of Working in Childcare
Consistent hours (usually weekdays only)
Hands-on work with young children
Opportunities to grow into leadership or education roles
Community-oriented work environment
No formal degree required for many entry-level positions
Those who enjoy working with children and contributing to their development often find daycare jobs personally fulfilling.
How to Find and Apply for Daycare Jobs
Start by searching online using high-intent keywords like:
“Daycare hiring near me”
“Full-time childcare jobs”
“Entry-level daycare positions with training”
“Preschool assistant teacher openings”
You can also check:
Job boards like Indeed, Care.com, or local classifieds
Local school districts or community centers
National childcare networks (e.g., KinderCare, Bright Horizons)
State-run early childhood education programs
Before applying, prepare a resume that highlights any experience with children, including babysitting, volunteering, or coaching.
Final Thoughts
Daycare jobs are a reliable entry point into early childhood education and caregiving. Whether you're exploring a long-term career in education or looking for flexible work that fits your schedule, there are plenty of openings across the country—many of which offer paid training and growth opportunities.
Compare local job listings, check credential requirements in your state, and start your application process. With strong demand for caregivers nationwide, now is a good time to enter the field.