The education industry plays a critical role in preparing the future workforce and strengthening communities. From early childhood classrooms to colleges and universities, educators and education professionals help students build the knowledge and skills needed for lifelong success.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to grow slower than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034. However, many job openings are expected each year as schools and educational institutions replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as through retirement.
As communities continue to grow and workforce needs evolve, schools and educational institutions rely on a diverse range of professionals to support student achievement. This overview highlights key in-demand education careers, required education, and what you can expect from the job market today.
Where the Jobs Are: Education
Education careers extend beyond the traditional classroom, creating opportunities in teaching, instructional support, counseling, administration, and academic leadership. According to Workforce Solutions’ Where the Jobs Are report, key occupations include:
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education — Teach foundational academic and social skills to students in elementary grades while creating engaging learning environments.
- Median Hourly Wage: $31.08 | Projected Openings: 3,200+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Teaching Assistants, Except Postsecondary — Support teachers by assisting with classroom activities, working with students individually or in groups, and helping manage instructional materials.
- Median Hourly Wage: $14.23 | Projected Openings: 3,400+ annually | Education: Some college, no degree
Substitute Teachers, Short-Term — Provide temporary classroom instruction and ensure continuity of learning when regular teachers are unavailable.
- Median Hourly Wage: $15.13 | Projected Openings: 2,800+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education — Teach specialized subjects to middle and high school students while preparing them for college and future careers.
- Median Hourly Wage: $31.86 | Projected Openings: 2,000+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education — Foster early learning and development by introducing young children to foundational academic and social skills.
- Median Hourly Wage: $16.46 | Projected Openings: 1,900+ annually | Education: Associate’s degree
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education — Guide students through a critical stage of academic and personal development while teaching core subject areas.
- Median Hourly Wage: $31.93 | Projected Openings: 1,500+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary — Prepare future healthcare professionals by teaching courses in colleges, universities, and professional schools.
- Median Hourly Wage: $66.37 | Projected Openings: 1,000+ annually | Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Instructional Coordinators — Develop curriculum standards, evaluate educational programs, and support teachers in improving instructional practices.
- Median Hourly Wage: $36.70 | Projected Openings: 900+ annually | Education: Master’s degree
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors — Help students develop academic plans, explore career options, and overcome personal and educational challenges.
- Median Hourly Wage: $33.64 | Projected Openings: 700+ annually | Education: Master’s degree
Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary — Oversee school operations, manage staff, and help create effective learning environments for students and educators.
- Median Hourly Wage: $46.14 | Projected Openings: 700+ annually | Education: Master’s degree
Start Your Career in Education
From classroom instruction to counseling, curriculum development, and school leadership, the education industry offers a variety of rewarding career paths. Many positions provide opportunities for professional growth through certification programs, advanced degrees, and specialized training.
Local colleges, universities, and educator preparation programs offer pathways designed to help future teachers, counselors, and education professionals gain the skills needed for high-demand roles.
Explore in-demand careers and connect with top employers at upcoming Workforce Solutions hiring events. Register today to secure your spot and access career-building resources.
