Best Jobs for Teachers Leaving Education – An Excellent Guide 2024!

Do you want to Embark on a transformative journey? Explore the best jobs for teachers leaving education. Discover fulfilling roles that leverage your skills, passion, and expertise. Whether you’re interested in curriculum development, educational technology, training, or other fields, unlock a world of possibilities for your next chapter. Maximize your potential and find a career that aligns with your strengths. Start a new journey outside traditional education and thrive in a rewarding profession tailored to your unique talents. Your next dream job awaits – leap today.

We unveil the ultimate guide to the best jobs for teachers leaving education. For those seeking a seamless transition from the classroom to a new and exciting career path, our curated list showcases opportunities that capitalize on your teaching expertise and passion for education. From roles in instructional design to education technology, curriculum development, and beyond, discover the perfect fit for your skills and aspirations. Step into a world where your teaching experience becomes the foundation for a fulfilling and prosperous career. Join us as we open the door to a spectrum of possibilities, helping you redefine your professional narrative beyond the traditional realm of education.

Careers in Education

1. Education Policy Expert

If you’re enthusiastic about education and aspire to contribute to positive changes benefiting students and educators, exploring a career in education policy is a compelling option. Education policy experts play a crucial role in evaluating the effectiveness of current policies and forecasting their impact on students, teachers, budgets, and districts. Tackling challenges faced by educational institutions, these experts craft policy-driven solutions.

Typically employed by school boards, districts, state education agencies, the federal government, lobbying firms, think tanks, advocacy groups, and education consulting companies, education policy experts are instrumental in shaping the future of education. Qualifications for this role generally include at least a bachelor’s degree, although certain districts may prefer candidates with a master’s or a doctorate. Step into this dynamic field to contribute meaningfully to the evolution of educational systems and policies.

Average Salary: $76,019

2. Curriculum Specialist

Are you passionate about shaping the future of education through curriculum development? Leverage your teaching background to craft compelling and meaningful learning experiences that enhance academic outcomes. As a curriculum specialist, you’ll analyze learning data and strategies, providing valuable insights to enhance curriculum and teaching methodologies. Additionally, you’ll play a crucial role in training educators on innovative programs and content.

Opportunities for curriculum specialists abound in various settings, including public or private schools, nonprofits, government agencies, and more. While a bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum requirement, schools and universities often prefer candidates with a master’s in curriculum and instruction. Prior experience as a teacher or instructional leader enhances your qualifications and opens doors to better opportunities and increased compensation. Join the exciting field of curriculum development and contribute to the evolution of education.

Average Salary: $68,118

3. Program Director for Exceptional Children

A Professional Development Program Director for Exceptional Children, commonly known as PDEC, possesses a specialized background in special education and a comprehensive understanding of pertinent teaching practices and methodologies. This role is pivotal in ensuring students receive the necessary care and training for success. The responsibilities of a PDEC encompass departmental oversight, curriculum planning, and staying abreast of the latest developments in educational research.

Ideally, a PDEC should have several years of experience in special education, and pursuing a master’s degree in education can further enhance knowledge and skills. Given that the role emphasizes administrative expertise more than classroom and educational skills, it is beneficial to actively develop and refine these administrative skills through various means. Embrace the role of a PDEC to contribute significantly to advancing educational support for exceptional children.

Average Salary: $61,500

4. Guidance Counselor

If you’re passionate about aiding students in achieving their academic and career aspirations, a career as a guidance counselor might be an excellent match. These professionals advise students on academic and personal matters, addressing issues ranging from behavioral and emotional challenges to mental health concerns affecting academic performance. Collaboration with parents and school staff is also key to ensuring students realize their full potential.

In this role, you can anticipate organizing orientation programs and internships, researching study programs, recommending educational paths, and conducting student evaluations. Guidance counselors operate in private and public institutions across various educational levels, including elementary, middle, high school, and college. Licensure and accreditation requirements vary by state, but a common prerequisite is a master’s degree along with the completion of an approved counselor education program. Embark on a fulfilling journey as a guidance counselor and positively impact students’ educational and personal development.

Average Salary: $58,120

5. Academic Advisor

Transitioning from a teaching career to academic advising can be a seamless move, given that former teachers already deeply understand what students require to navigate their academic journeys successfully. Academic advisors are pivotal in guiding students through various aspects of their education, from admission processes to recommending suitable classes. They are instrumental in updating student records and monitoring progress throughout their educational endeavors.

Fulfilling certain educational requirements is essential to embarking on a career as an academic advisor. Typically, a bachelor’s degree in education is a foundational prerequisite. For those aspiring to advance their career and carve a path in academic advising, pursuing a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction can be advantageous. This specialized degree equips individuals with a comprehensive understanding of curriculum, high school and college scheduling, student needs, and the intricacies of daily interactions with students—critical skills for a successful career in academic advising. Start your journey into academic advising, leveraging your teaching background to positively impact students’ educational paths.

Average Salary: $45,965

6. Instructional Designer

You’re well-positioned to excel as an instructional designer with classroom teaching experience and a profound understanding of the academic landscape. In this role, professionals like you assist teachers, school administrators, and educational institutions in leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance the quality of each student’s education.

As an instructional designer, your responsibilities encompass evaluating various learning tools and resources, identifying materials tailored to specific students or teachers, and collaborating closely with educators to implement effective curriculum and instructional practices.

A solid educational foundation is crucial to pursuing a successful instructional design career. Typically, this includes an undergraduate and a master’s degree in education. Furthermore, employers often favor candidates with a few years of experience in a relevant academic field. Capitalize on your teaching background and embark on a fulfilling journey as an instructional designer, contributing to the advancement of education through innovative technology integration.

Average Salary: $80,182

7. Standardized Test Developer

Consider a rewarding career as a Standardized Test Developer, where you can enjoy higher earnings than in a traditional teaching role. Standardized test developers are crucial in crafting assessments that gauge a student’s retained knowledge upon completing a course or education program.

In this dynamic position, your responsibilities include creating and refining test questions and meticulously analyzing areas requiring assessment. You’ll delve into research to identify pertinent sources for developing new test questions and ensure the accuracy and error-free nature of the tests you design.

For those aspiring to thrive in test development roles, a master’s degree is often a prerequisite. Depending on the subject matter, specialized expertise may also be necessary; for instance, those working on tests like the LSAT might require a law degree. Step into the world of Standardized Test Development, where your skills contribute to the educational landscape and offer the benefit of a potential salary increase.

Average Salary: $70,000

8. Private Tutor

Escape the traditional classroom setting and explore the personalized world of private tutoring, where you engage with students one-on-one. If you thrive in this dynamic and possess excellent communication skills to unravel complex topics, a career as a private tutor might be the perfect move for you.

Private tutors cater to individual students, ranging from elementary to college level, providing assistance with course materials, explaining concepts, and aiding in assignment completion. Families may hire private tutors to ensure their children excel in specific subjects, and some tutors choose to work through agencies.

To embark on a successful career as a private tutor, a bachelor’s degree in the relevant subject area is typically required. For instance, a bachelor’s degree in mathematics is essential if you aspire to become a math tutor. Take a step into private tutoring, where your personalized approach can significantly impact a student’s academic journey.

Average Salary: $50,390

9. School Principal

Elevate your career in education by taking on the role of a school principal, where you will oversee and direct the institution’s overall operation. Principals play a pivotal role in maintaining the success of both students and teachers, handling disciplinary matters, managing budgets, making hiring decisions, and more. If you seek to advance in education and continue working in a school environment, transitioning to a principal position could be highly rewarding.

To excel in this role, comfort in a leadership position and strong interpersonal skills such as effective communication, conflict management, and patience are crucial.

Most school principals hold master’s degrees in education administration or educational leadership. However, some principals may have bachelor’s degrees and extensive experience as teachers or administrators. Additionally, school principals require specific experience and certifications, with variations depending on the state, city, and district. Take the next step in your education career and consider the fulfilling path of a school principal.

Average Salary: $111,640

10. Educational Consultant

Embark on a refreshing career change by becoming an educational consultant—an ideal move for teachers seeking a break from the traditional classroom while still positively impacting students’ lives.

The day-to-day responsibilities of an educational consultant can differ based on whether a private company or a school district employs you. Some consultants collaborate with educational technology firms, contributing to the design of online continuing education programs for teachers. Others may work with community programs, assisting homeschool families in creating customized curricula. Predominantly, educational consultants are engaged by school districts to enhance and develop their education programs.

Educational requirements for this role vary; many districts may mandate a master’s or doctoral degree. A valid teaching certificate and fulfilling continuing education requirements is typically a common prerequisite. Embrace the opportunity to transition to a role where you can leverage your expertise to shape educational programs and positively influence students’ learning experiences.

Average Salary: $65,621

Careers Outside of Education

1. Childcare Worker

Explore the rewarding role of a childcare worker, where you enjoy the perks of working with children without the added stresses that teachers often face, such as grading papers, designing lesson plans, and attending meetings.

A primary responsibility of childcare workers is ensuring the safety of the children under their care. Beyond safety, they play a crucial role in the overall well-being of the children, which may involve tasks like providing meals, preparing kids for school, and supervising playtime. Childcare workers have the flexibility to work with children of various ages in diverse settings, including private homes, daycares, and preschools. A childcare career might be the perfect fit if you are passionate about working with children and seek a role emphasizing their safety and well-being.

Average Salary: $26,790

2. Sales Representative

Tap into your teaching skills and apparent communication abilities for a seamless transition into a career in sales. Like teachers, sales representatives excel in interacting with people and identifying their needs, relying on strong communication, negotiation, and writing skills.

In sales, responsibilities may include pitching products or services, contacting prospects through cold-calling, and ensuring clients have a positive experience.

While certain sales positions may not necessitate a formal degree, having at least a bachelor’s degree is often considered ideal, broa-require a formal degree, having at least a bachelor’s degree is often considered ideal, broadening the range of available opportunities and the chance to control your earnings rather than adhering to a traditional salary structure. If you’re someone who thrives on autonomy and desires income control, a career in sales could be the perfect fit for you.

Average Salary: $57,286

3. Financial Advisor

Explore a fitting career in financial advising if you have a keen interest in math and accounting or a teaching background in related subjects. Financial advisors collaborate with clients to help them actualize their financial goals, providing tailored advice and strategies for goal attainment. This role involves extensive research on stocks, mutual funds, and markets to guide clients toward substantial investment returns.

Becoming a financial advisor requires specialized education to adeptly manage client finances. In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree, taking courses in investments, taxes, estate planning, and risk management is advisable. If you aspire to become a certified financial planner (CFP), completing a CFP program is essential. Seize the opportunity to blend your mathematical acumen or teaching expertise with financial advisory skills, assisting clients in navigating their financial journeys.

Average Salary: $89,330

4. Freelance Writer

For self-motivated teachers seeking more control and flexibility, a career as a freelance writer offers a compelling transition. With solid writing skills cultivated in the teaching profession, many educators find freelance writing a natural fit.

Freelance writers craft diverse content, from blogs and research articles to brochures, instruction manuals, short stories, advertisements, and more. Former teachers entering freelance writing may specialize in their prior subjects or venture into technical or educational writing, leveraging skills honed in the classroom.

Some teachers embark on freelancing while still employed full-time, gradually transitioning into full-time freelancers as they build their client base. While employers often prefer writers with a writing background, having a robust writing portfolio with relevant samples can significantly enhance your hiring chances. Strong research skills, grammatical knowledge, and networking abilities are essential for a successful start in the freelance writing domain.

Average Salary: $63,213

5. Corporate Trainer

Transitioning from teaching to corporate training can be a seamless and natural move for those passionate about developing others. Corporate trainers, much like teachers, play a pivotal role in supporting learning and professional growth. However, corporate trainers operate professionally instead of working in a classroom with students, fostering employees’ career development.

In this role, corporate trainers engage in tasks such as training teams to enhance their skills, designing training programs, creating and conducting assessments, and evaluating employee progress. Interpersonal skills and a genuine enthusiasm for teaching are essential attributes, given that corporate trainers work closely with individuals daily.

Many employers typically seek candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree for educational qualifications. In certain instances, a master’s degree and additional certificates or college courses related to corporate training may be preferred. Embark on a fulfilling career in corporate training, leveraging your teaching expertise to contribute to the professional growth of individuals in a business setting.

Average Salary: $59,630

6. Tour Guide

For teachers seeking a unique and engaging career path, becoming a museum tour guide can be a seamless and natural fit. Museum tour guides serve as educators within a museum, guiding visitors through exhibits, explaining their significance, and fielding questions. This role may involve leading individuals or groups of all ages, including children, and leveraging your teaching background to organize educational programs, lectures, or field trips.

Qualifications for this position can vary depending on the specific role and type of museum. Still, many prefer tour guides to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Former teaching experience is often highly beneficial, providing a valuable foundation for effectively communicating information to diverse audiences. Additionally, volunteer experience in a museum or educational setting can enhance your chances of securing a position as a museum tour guide. Take advantage of your teaching skills and passion for education to create enriching experiences for museum visitors.

Average Salary: $33,421

7. Human Resource Specialist

Teachers possess valuable interpersonal skills that seamlessly transition into Human Resources (HR) careers. HR professionals are responsible for various aspects of staffing, including recruiting, interviewing, and screening applicants for a company. Like teaching, HR specialists engage with diverse personalities and learning styles, especially when training new hires. They also handle employee relations, compensation, benefits, and training.

Given the essential role HR plays in organizations, the demand for HR specialists is expected to continue growing. This career choice offers stability and involves working with and managing teams of people, making it an ideal fit for those with teaching backgrounds.

To embark on a career in HR, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in human resources is typically required. This educational background equips individuals with the business and managerial skills needed for recruiting and policy management tasks. In some cases, employers may also value relevant certifications for HR positions. Leverage your teaching experience and interpersonal skills to excel in the dynamic and people-centric field of Human Resources.

Average Salary: $63,490

8. Digital Marketer

Marketing could be an ideal avenue for those seeking a career that taps into their creative side, especially if you have a background in teaching business, communications, or creative writing. Many companies actively seek individuals with these skills for marketing roles.

Digital marketers are responsible for crafting marketing content, establishing a brand voice, collaborating with team members, and brainstorming innovative marketing initiatives. The versatility of this career path lies in its applicability across diverse industries and fields. Whether schools, businesses, nonprofit groups, or hospitals, marketing teams are essential for promoting products or services. This offers a range of opportunities tailored to your specific interests.

While many employers often require a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field, investing in such an education equips you with the critical skills needed for success in marketing and content creation. Explore the dynamic world of marketing, leveraging your creativity and teaching background to contribute to developing compelling content and effective strategies.

Average Salary: $62,601

9. Registered Nurse

If you’re open to additional schooling, a nursing career could be a rewarding and in-demand option that leverages many of the skills you already possess as a teacher. Registered Nurses (RNs), much like teachers, need to be empathetic, detail-oriented, and emotionally resilient.

RNs play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, offering essential treatment and care to patients in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. They provide counseling, discuss treatment methods, administer medications, and conduct physical exams.

This career path offers a high level of stability and is also known for providing satisfaction. RNs consistently rank high in polls regarding job satisfaction and career quality. Additionally, the demand for RNs is expected to grow by 9% until 2030.

Becoming an RN requires intensive education to ensure a comprehensive understanding of best health practices and the ability to provide excellent patient care. This typically involves obtaining a nursing diploma and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Consider exploring the fulfilling and impactful nursing field as the next step in your career journey.

Average Salary: $75,330

10. Event Planner

If you’re highly organized and detail-oriented, a career as an event planner could be an excellent fit for you. Event planners coordinate various events, from weddings and corporate events to fundraisers and award ceremonies. Teachers interested in this career path can leverage their planning skills, as event planners often handle tasks such as booking venues, arranging transportation, and coordinating with vendors.

While a specific degree is not typically required for this role, a bachelor’s degree in marketing or management can provide you with many skills needed to succeed in event planning. Additionally, gaining a couple of years of experience in planning events can be instrumental in getting your foot in the door in this industry. Consider exploring the dynamic and fast-paced world of event planning, where your organizational prowess and attention to detail can shine.

Conclusion on Best Jobs for Teachers Leaving Education

For teachers venturing beyond education, diverse and fulfilling opportunities await. Whether it’s guiding corporate training, exploring creative avenues in marketing, or orchestrating events, there are numerous paths to leverage your skills and passion. Embrace the chance to redefine your career, discover fresh horizons, and find a fulfilling job that resonates with your aspirations. The journey beyond the classroom holds exciting possibilities – take that leap and embrace the next chapter in your professional adventure.