29 Jobs for Ex-Teachers: Best Careers to Explore
Looking for jobs after teaching? In this article, you’ll discover 29 jobs for ex-teachers where you can leverage your existing teaching skills.
Read on to explore some diverse career paths and find the best new career opportunities.
Leaving the teaching profession can feel overwhelming. You’ve spent years honing your skills in the classroom, and now you’re ready for a change. The good news is that the skills you developed as a teacher are highly transferable and there is a wide range of potential jobs for ex-teachers.
29 Jobs for Ex-Teachers
Whether you’re looking to stay within the education sector or explore entirely new industries, there are plenty of career opportunities that value your teaching experience. Here we explore 29 jobs that could be a perfect fit for you after teaching.
1. Tutor
This one shouldn’t need much explaining! Tutors provide personalized instruction to students, helping them understand challenging subjects and improve their academic performance. You’ll work one-on-one or in small groups, focusing on individual student needs and learning styles.
This role allows you to continue using your teaching skills but in a more flexible, focused environment. Tutors can work independently, with tutoring companies, or within schools.
It’s an ideal choice if you still enjoy teaching but prefer a different setting, with opportunities for part-time or freelance work.
- US Salary: $30,000 – $70,000
- UK Salary: £20,000 – £45,000
2. TEFL Teacher
Fancy teaching English abroad or online? Whilst TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is still a form of teaching, it represents a great avenue for teachers looking to experience life in a different country or try something new. All you need to do is complete a TEFL course and you can get started.
TEFL teachers instruct non-native English speakers in reading, writing, listening, and speaking English. They work in various settings, including schools, language institutes, and online platforms, both domestically and abroad.
Responsibilities may include creating lesson plans, assessing students’ language skills, and adapting teaching methods to meet students’ needs.
As a TEFL teacher, you’ll use the classroom management, lesson planning, and communication skills you’ve already honed as a teacher. This role also offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures and work with diverse student populations.
- US Salary: $30,000 – $60,000 (varies significantly based on location and institution)
- UK Salary: £20,000 – £40,000 (varies significantly based on location and institution)
3. Educational Consultant
As an educational consultant, you advise schools, districts, or educational companies on best practices. This role involves assessing educational needs, developing improvement strategies, and guiding the implementation of new policies or technologies. You may also work on curriculum development, teacher training, or school evaluations.
Your ability to analyze educational practices and suggest improvements makes you valuable in this role. Your experience in lesson planning, classroom management, and curriculum development also equips you to provide valuable insights.
You can work independently or with a consulting firm, impacting education on a broader scale.
- US Salary: $60,000 – $110,000
- UK Salary: £45,000 – £80,000
4. SEND Consultant
SEND consultants (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Consultants) advise schools, educational institutions, and families on how to support students with special educational needs and disabilities. They assess individual needs, develop tailored education plans, and recommend strategies or resources to enhance learning outcomes.
Responsibilities may include conducting assessments, training staff, and ensuring that institutions comply with legal requirements for SEND provision.
Your experience in working with diverse learners and creating inclusive learning environments will be invaluable in this role. As a SEND consultant, you’ll draw on your deep understanding of differentiated instruction and your ability to advocate for students’ needs.
- US Salary: $50,000 – $90,000
- UK Salary: £35,000 – £65,000
5. Curriculum Developer
Curriculum developers design and refine educational programs and materials. They work closely with educators and subject matter experts to ensure that content aligns with educational standards and meets the needs of diverse learners.
This role may involve creating lesson plans, selecting textbooks and resources, and integrating technology into the curriculum.
Your deep understanding of teaching methods and educational standards is crucial in developing curricula that effectively engage students.
- US Salary: $60,000 – $100,000
- UK Salary: £45,000 – £75,000
6. Instructional Designer
Instructional designers create educational materials, courses, and programs for various audiences, including schools, businesses, and online platforms.
You’ll work with subject matter experts to design content that meets learning objectives, is engaging, and is accessible. Responsibilities include developing e-learning modules, creating assessments, and continuously improving course materials based on feedback.
Your expertise in understanding learning styles, developing lesson plans, and utilizing educational technology will be essential in creating effective instructional experiences.
- US Salary: $55,000 – $95,000
- UK Salary: £40,000 – £70,000
7. Textbook Author
Textbook authors write educational materials used in schools and universities. They research topics, write content, and collaborate with editors and designers to publish their work.
This role involves creating clear, accurate, and engaging content that aligns with educational standards and helps students learn effectively.
Your experience in creating lesson plans, understanding curriculum requirements, and teaching complex concepts will help you craft textbooks that are both informative and engaging. The role allows you to contribute to education by developing resources that other teachers and students will use.
- US Salary: $40,000 – $80,000
- UK Salary: £28,000 – £50,000
8. Content Writer
Content writers create written material for various platforms, including websites, blogs, marketing materials, and educational content.
You’ll research topics, write articles, and edit your work for clarity and engagement. Content writing can range from creating educational resources to writing for businesses or media outlets.
Your ability to explain complex ideas simply and tailor content to different audiences is a direct application of your teaching skills. Writing educational content or materials for businesses can allow you to continue educating others through your writing.
- US Salary: $40,000 – $70,000
- UK Salary: £25,000 – £45,000
9. Editor
Editors review and revise written content, ensuring clarity, coherence, grammar, and adherence to style guidelines. You’ll work with writers to improve their work and produce high-quality content. Editing can involve working on books, academic papers, or online content.
Your background in grading papers and providing constructive feedback will make you a strong editor, especially if you’ve taught English!
Whether you’re editing books, academic papers, or online content, your eye for detail and understanding of effective communication will be invaluable.
- US Salary: $45,000 – $80,000
- UK Salary: £30,000 – £50,000
10. School Administrator
School administrators oversee the daily operations of schools, including managing staff, handling budgets, and ensuring student safety.
Responsibilities may include setting educational goals, implementing policies, and liaising with parents and the community. You might also be involved in hiring and training teachers, organizing professional development, and maintaining school facilities.
Your background as a teacher gives you a deep understanding of the challenges and needs of both students and teachers, allowing you to create a supportive educational environment.
- US Salary: $70,000 – $120,000
- UK Salary: £50,000 – £90,000
11. School Counselor
School counselors support students’ academic, emotional, and social development. They provide guidance on career choices, personal issues, and educational paths, working closely with students, parents, and teachers.
Responsibilities include one-on-one counseling sessions, developing programs to support student well-being, and collaborating with teachers to address student needs.
Your experience in understanding and addressing student needs makes this a natural transition. School counselors play a crucial role in helping students navigate the challenges of adolescence and prepare for their futures.
- US Salary: $50,000 – $85,000
- UK Salary: £30,000 – £50,000
12. Student Learning and Support Officer
Student Learning and Support Officers assist students who need extra help to succeed academically. You’ll work with students to identify learning difficulties, develop strategies to overcome them, and provide one-on-one or small group support.
This role often involves collaborating with teachers to adapt lessons or create individualized education plans (IEPs).
Your experience in understanding diverse student needs and developing tailored teaching methods will be crucial in helping students achieve their potential.
- US Salary: $40,000 – $70,000
- UK Salary: £25,000 – £45,000
13. Academic Advisor
Academic advisors guide students through their educational journey, helping them choose courses, plan for future careers, and navigate academic challenges.
The role involves understanding each student’s unique needs and goals, offering tailored advice, and providing support during their academic journey. You may also work on improving retention rates, supporting at-risk students, and assisting with career planning.
Your experience in motivating and supporting students makes you well-suited for this personalized role, advisory role.
- US Salary: $45,000 – $70,000
- UK Salary: £30,000 – £50,000
14. Youth Worker
Youth workers support young people in their personal, social, and educational development. They work in community centers, schools, or youth organizations to provide guidance, organize activities, and help young people navigate challenges.
Your responsibilities may include mentoring, planning youth programs, and offering counseling on issues like education, employment, or family relationships.
Your ability to connect with and inspire young people, along with your experience in managing youth activities, will be key in this role.
- US Salary: $35,000 – $60,000
- UK Salary: £22,000 – £35,000
15. Education Policy Analyst
Education policy analysts research, evaluate, and develop policies related to education. They analyze data, write reports, and advise policymakers on educational issues. Your role might involve working for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profits.
You’ll need to stay updated on current educational trends, evaluate the impact of existing policies, and suggest improvements based on evidence.
Your classroom experience provides a practical perspective on how policies impact students and teachers, making your insights valuable in shaping effective education policies.
- US Salary: $55,000 – $100,000
- UK Salary: £40,000 – £70,000
16. Teacher Trainer
Teacher trainers develop and deliver training programs for educators, helping them enhance their teaching skills and stay updated on best practices. You’ll design workshops, provide mentorship, and evaluate teachers’ performance. This role may involve working with new teachers or offering professional development for experienced educators.
Your deep understanding of teaching methods, combined with your experience in mentoring colleagues, will be essential in helping others grow in their teaching careers.
- US Salary: $55,000 – $90,000
- UK Salary: £40,000 – £65,000
17. Corporate Trainer
Corporate trainers develop and deliver training programs for businesses, focusing on skill development and professional growth. You’ll create content tailored to adult learners, lead workshops, and assess employee progress.
In addition to delivering training sessions, you may be involved in evaluating the effectiveness of training programs and making adjustments as needed.
This role is ideal for those who enjoy teaching but prefer working with adult learners in a corporate setting. Your ability to break down complex information and engage an audience is directly transferable from teaching.
In this role, you’ll shift from teaching students to educating professionals, helping them improve their skills and productivity.
- US Salary: $50,000 – $95,000
- UK Salary: £35,000 – £65,000
18. Training and Development Manager
Training and development managers oversee employee training programs within companies. They design, implement, and assess the effectiveness of training initiatives, often working to improve employee performance and career development. Your responsibilities may include conducting training sessions, developing training materials, and evaluating training outcomes.
Your experience in lesson planning, instructional delivery, and assessing student progress makes you well-suited for this role. You’ll shift from teaching students to educating and developing professionals, helping them grow in their careers.
- US Salary: $70,000 – $120,000
- UK Salary: £50,000 – £90,000
19. Education Program Manager
Education program managers oversee educational initiatives within organizations such as museums, non-profits, or educational companies. They develop programs, manage budgets, coordinate with stakeholders, and assess the effectiveness of their programs.
Your responsibilities may include designing curricula, training staff, and evaluating the impact of educational programs.
Your experience in curriculum planning, event coordination, and managing classroom activities makes you well-prepared for this role, where you can influence educational outcomes on a broader scale.
- US Salary: $60,000 – $110,000
- UK Salary: £40,000 – £70,000
20. Non-Profit Program Coordinator
Non-profit program coordinators manage projects and initiatives for non-profit organizations. They plan events, oversee volunteers, manage budgets, and ensure programs meet their goals.
Your responsibilities might include grant writing, community outreach, and working with stakeholders to develop new initiatives.
In this role, you can leverage your passion for education and social issues to make a broader impact in your community. Your organizational skills and experience in managing classroom activities are directly transferable.
- US Salary: $40,000 – $75,000
- UK Salary: £28,000 – £50,000
21. Event Planner
Event planners organize and coordinate events such as conferences, weddings, corporate meetings, and fundraisers. They handle logistics, manage budgets, and ensure that everything runs smoothly. Your responsibilities may include selecting venues, coordinating with vendors, and managing the event timeline.
Your experience in organizing school events, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and working under pressure will be crucial in this role. Event planning requires strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills, all of which are honed in the teaching profession.
- US Salary: $45,000 – $75,000
- UK Salary: £25,000 – £45,000
22. Librarian
Librarians manage collections of books, periodicals, and digital resources in public, academic, or specialized libraries. They organize resources, conduct research, and assist patrons in finding information. Responsibilities may include cataloging materials, organizing community programs, and teaching information literacy.
Your background in education, research skills, and ability to guide students will help you excel in this role. Librarians also play an educational role, offering workshops, reading programs, and other resources to help patrons learn and grow.
- US Salary: $45,000 – $75,000
- UK Salary: £30,000 – £45,000
23. Human Resources Specialist
Human resources (HR) specialists manage employee relations, recruitment, training, and development within a company. They handle tasks such as interviewing candidates, conducting performance reviews, and managing employee benefits. HR specialists also play a key role in conflict resolution, employee retention, and ensuring a positive workplace culture.
Your experience in managing a classroom, resolving conflicts, and mentoring students can easily translate into managing employees and fostering a positive workplace environment.
The communication and organizational skills you developed as a teacher are particularly valuable in HR.
- US Salary: $50,000 – $80,000
- UK Salary: £35,000 – £60,000
24. Sales Representative
Sales representatives promote and sell products or services to businesses or individuals. You’ll identify potential clients, present products, negotiate contracts, and close sales. This role involves building strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and offering solutions that meet those needs.
Your ability to communicate effectively, build relationships, and persuade others will serve you well in this role. Sales positions often require the kind of problem-solving skills and persistence that teachers develop, making it a natural transition for those interested in business.
- US Salary: $45,000 – $90,000 (plus commission)
- UK Salary: £25,000 – £50,000 (plus commission)
25. Public Relations Specialist
Public relations (PR) specialists manage a company’s or organization’s public image. They write press releases, manage media relations, plan PR campaigns, and sometimes handle crisis communications.
Responsibilities include building relationships with media contacts, creating strategic communication plans, and monitoring public perception.
Your experience in communication, writing, and presenting information clearly will help you excel in this role. PR specialists need to build strong relationships with media contacts and stakeholders, much like how teachers build relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
- US Salary: $50,000 – $90,000
- UK Salary: £35,000 – £60,000
26. Customer Success Manager
Customer success managers ensure that customers achieve their desired outcomes with a product or service. They work closely with clients, providing support, training, and guidance to help them get the most out of their purchases. Your responsibilities might include onboarding new customers, conducting training sessions, and resolving customer issues.
Your ability to guide, support, and educate students will translate into helping customers achieve their goals. This role often involves problem-solving, relationship-building, and communication skills, all of which are key strengths developed in teaching.
- US Salary: $60,000 – $100,000
- UK Salary: £40,000 – £70,000
27. Administration
Administration roles are found across various industries, involving the management of day-to-day operations, such as handling communications, organizing meetings, managing schedules, and maintaining records. Administrators are essential for keeping businesses or organizations running smoothly.
Responsibilities might include coordinating office activities, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with company policies.
The organizational, multitasking, and communication skills you’ve honed as a teacher are directly transferable to an administrative role, where attention to detail and efficiency are key.
- US Salary: $35,000 – $65,000
- UK Salary: £22,000 – £40,000
28. Project Manager
Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects within organizations. They coordinate teams, manage resources, and ensure projects meet deadlines and stay within budget. You’ll need to communicate effectively with stakeholders, solve problems as they arise, and keep everyone on track.
Your experience in managing classroom projects, organizing events, and leading teams of students makes you well-suited for this role. Project management offers a dynamic work environment where your organizational and leadership skills will shine.
- US Salary: $65,000 – $120,000
- UK Salary: £45,000 – £85,000
29. Careers Advisor
Careers advisors help students or clients plan their career paths, offering guidance on education, training, and job opportunities. You’ll assess clients’ skills, interests, and goals, provide advice on job search strategies, and help them develop career plans. This role often involves working in schools, colleges, or employment centers.
Your experience in guiding students, understanding their aspirations, and providing support will be instrumental in helping others achieve their career goals.
- US Salary: $45,000 – $75,000
- UK Salary: £30,000 – £50,000
Transitioning from Teaching: Skills to Highlight
When considering a new career, it’s crucial to highlight the skills you’ve developed as a teacher. These skills are often more transferable than you might think. Here are a few key areas to emphasize:
- Communication: As a teacher, you’ve mastered the art of clear, effective communication. Whether you’re explaining complex concepts or mediating conflicts, this skill is essential in almost every job.
- Organization: Managing a classroom requires strong organizational skills. You’re accustomed to planning lessons, managing time, and keeping track of multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Leadership: Leading a classroom of students, often with different needs and abilities, requires strong leadership. This experience can translate to managing teams or leading projects.
- Problem-Solving: Teachers solve problems daily, from helping students understand difficult concepts to managing classroom behavior. This ability to think on your feet is valuable in any role.
- Empathy: Teaching requires a deep understanding of others’ needs, which is crucial in roles that involve working with people, such as HR, customer success, or counseling.
Navigating the Job Search
Transitioning from teaching to a new career can feel daunting, but with the right approach, you can find a role that suits your skills and interests.
Start by identifying industries or roles that interest you. Next, tailor your resume to highlight your transferable skills, using language that resonates with the industry you’re targeting. Networking can also be incredibly helpful; reach out to former colleagues or join professional groups in your new field of interest.
Don’t be afraid to start in a role that might seem like a step sideways or even backward. Gaining experience in a new field is invaluable, and it can often lead to more significant opportunities down the line. You can also choose to retrain to improve your chances of securing a job.
How To Retrain for Other Jobs After Teaching
Retraining for a new career after teaching can be both an exciting and challenging process. Fortunately, your teaching background has equipped you with a wealth of transferable skills that can be valuable in many other professions. Here’s how you can retrain and prepare for a new career path:
1. Identify Transferable Skills
Start by listing the skills you’ve developed as a teacher, such as communication, organization, leadership, problem-solving, and empathy. These skills are valuable in many other roles, from project management to human resources. Identifying these skills will help you understand which careers you might excel in and what additional training you might need.
2. Explore Career Options
Research careers that interest you and match your skill set. Hopefully, you’ll have a head start with our list! Consider the type of work environment, job responsibilities, and long-term opportunities.
Online career assessments or speaking with a career counselor can also help you identify potential career paths. Look for roles that allow you to continue using your strengths, such as educational consulting, corporate training, or administration.
3. Take Online Courses and Certifications
Online courses and certifications can be a cost-effective and flexible way to gain new skills and knowledge.
Websites like Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and edX offer courses in a wide range of subjects. For example, if you’re interested in project management, consider taking a course in that field and earning a certification like PMP (Project Management Professional).
If you’re leaning towards a tech role, learning new tools or programming languages can be done through platforms like Codecademy or Khan Academy.
4. Attend Workshops and Seminars
Workshops and seminars provide opportunities for hands-on learning and networking with professionals in your desired field. Look for events hosted by industry associations, universities, or professional training organizations. These events can offer insights into industry trends, provide practical skills, and allow you to connect with potential employers or mentors.
5. Consider a Degree or Diploma Program
Depending on your desired career path, you may need to pursue a formal degree or diploma. Many community colleges and universities offer programs tailored to career changers, including part-time and online options.
For instance, if you’re transitioning into counseling, a degree in psychology or a related field might be necessary. Similarly, moving into a specialized role like instructional design could require a degree or certification in education technology.
6. Volunteer or Intern in a New Field
Volunteering or interning in a new field can provide valuable hands-on experience and help you build a network in your chosen industry. This experience can be particularly beneficial if you’re entering a field where you have little direct experience.
Many non-profits, startups, and small businesses are open to volunteers or interns, and this can be a great way to gain experience while transitioning to a new career.
7. Network with Professionals in Your Desired Field
Networking is a powerful tool when retraining for a new career. Reach out to former colleagues, attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
Informational interviews can also be helpful; these are informal meetings where you can ask someone in your desired field about their job, the industry, and advice for breaking in.
8. Gain Experience through Freelancing
Freelancing can be a way to gain experience and build a portfolio in a new field. For example, if you’re interested in content writing or digital marketing, you could start by taking on freelance projects.
Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer offer opportunities to find gigs that can help you develop new skills and demonstrate your capabilities to future employers.
9. Join Professional Associations
Joining professional associations related to your new career can provide access to resources, job boards, training opportunities, and networking events. Many associations also offer certifications that can enhance your credibility in your new field. Being part of a professional community can also provide you with support and guidance as you transition to a new career.
10. Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
As you retrain, update your resume and cover letter to reflect your new skills and experiences. Highlight transferable skills from your teaching career, such as communication skills, and emphasize any new qualifications, certifications, or experiences you’ve gained.
Tailor your resume to each job application, focusing on how your background and new skills make you a strong candidate for the role.
11. Consider Part-Time or Contract Work
Part-time or contract work can provide a stepping stone as you transition to a new career. These roles can offer valuable experience, build your resume, and help you decide if the career is the right fit before committing to a full-time position.
12. Seek Career Counseling
If you’re unsure about which direction to take, consider seeking career counseling. Career counselors can help you assess your skills, explore options, and create a plan for transitioning into a new field. They can also provide support and resources throughout your retraining process.
Retraining for a new career after teaching is a process that requires self-reflection, planning, and dedication. However, by leveraging your existing skills, gaining new qualifications, and networking within your chosen field, you can successfully transition to a fulfilling new career.
Remember, it’s never too late to start something new, and the skills you’ve honed as a teacher are in high demand across a wide range of professions.
Final Thoughts
Leaving the teaching profession doesn’t mean leaving behind the skills and experiences you’ve gained. Many jobs value the unique abilities that teachers bring to the table, from strong communication skills to the ability to manage and inspire others.
By exploring these 29 careers and accompanying advice, you can find a path that leverages your strengths and aligns with your career goals. Your next great opportunity could be just around the corner.
