Specialist -

Position Summary

Michigan State University actively promotes a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives, and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry.

Human Development and Family Studies is seeking qualified candidates for a teacher/child development specialist to work with children and university students at the Michigan State University Child Development Laboratory (CDL). The successful candidate will teach in a nationally recognized, university-affiliated laboratory program for young children and teachers in training. The CDL provides parenting education/family support and high quality early childhood programming for children ages birth to 6 years. Responsibilities include functioning as a head teacher in an early childhood classroom and academic specialist at Michigan State University; training, supervising, and evaluating university students; and participating in professional outreach. Other duties as assigned by director.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Masters -Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field

Minimum Requirements

• Master's in Child Development or Early Childhood Education or a related field. If the candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Child Development or Early Childhood Education with a Master's degree in a related field, this would be accepted.
• Minimum of 3 years successful teaching experience as a lead teacher with children between the range of Infants through age five
• Experience with childcare licensing regulations
• Experience training adults

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with linguistically and culturally diverse families is desired.
• Experience working with children with special needs in an inclusive setting.
• Experience in the dissemination of information on child development to a population of families or professionals.

Required Application Materials

Please provide a cover letter, resume, one-page philosophy of teaching statement, academic transcripts, and the names and contact information for 3 professional references. 

Review of Applications Begins On

08/26/2025

Summary of Physical Demands

Lift children up to 50 lbs. to changing table, crib, or into stroller; Push large stroller with 4 children

Summary of Health Risks

May come in contact with bodily fluids; and materials covered under Universal Precautions

Website
Department Statement

The MSU CDL serves children and families by providing a play-based curriculum influenced by such theorists as Vygotsky, Piaget, and Bronfenbrenner. We are able to provide a developmentally appropriate curriculum designed to promote development of the whole child. We do this by addressing development in the six domains. Our programs provide a continuity of interaction across classrooms through the use of social guidance techniques. The CDL welcomes children and families representing many languages, countries of origin, income levels, family structures, and ability levels. We value families as experts on their own children and collaborate with families to develop individually appropriate goals for children within the context of the classroom community. Families will find outstanding support from our staff as they learn to be advocates for their children through our programs.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.

---