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Considering a career shift? You’re not alone. Changing careers opens doors to fresh challenges, better income, or chasing a long-held dream. The good news? Your teaching background is valuable across many industries!
This article highlights how your teaching skills and experience translate perfectly into fulfilling new career paths. You can chart a course for a rewarding future by understanding which positions benefit from your expertise.
41 Best jobs for former teachers
This article will discuss the 41 best jobs for ex-teachers who are over it.
1. Academic advisor
- National average salary: $45,508 per year
Academic advisors work in colleges and universities to help students achieve their academic goals. They are crucial in guiding students to make informed decisions about their educational paths. One of the primary duties of an academic advisor is to assist students in identifying their strengths and interests, which can help them determine the type of educational courses they should take. Advisors also explain the requirements for various majors and degrees and help students plan their course schedules accordingly.
In addition, academic advisors support students in various ways, such as helping with schedule changes, discussing academic performance concerns, and suggesting resources for academic success. They also assist transfer students in acclimating to their new school by providing information about the institution’s policies, procedures, and resources.
Academic advisors work closely with students, faculty, and staff and are responsible for maintaining accurate records of student progress. They also stay up-to-date on changes in academic policies and requirements and provide timely and accurate information to students. The role of an academic advisor is critical in ensuring that students are on track to achieve their academic and career goals.
2. Nanny
- National average salary: $48,082 per year
The primary role of a nanny is to provide personalized and attentive care for children while their parents or guardians are away. This includes ensuring that the child’s needs are met, such as feeding, bathing, and dressing. In addition to this, nannies also play a crucial role in planning activities that are both fun and educational for the child. This may include games, arts and crafts projects, and other age-appropriate activities.
Nannies may also be responsible for providing transportation to and from school and activities and helping with homework. Some nannies may also assist with light housework, such as cleaning up after the child and doing laundry. Overall, nannies serve as trusted and reliable family caregivers, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive.
3. Tutor
- National average salary: $51,771 per year
A tutor is a professional who provides academic assistance to students in a specific subject or multiple subjects. Tutors are responsible for supporting students by providing additional instruction outside the classroom. In their role, they help students with homework assignments, explain different approaches to complex topics, and create student guides to assist them in their studies.
Tutors usually work with students on a one-on-one basis or in small groups to ensure that each student receives individualized attention and support. They also review and assess student performance to identify areas that need improvement and provide feedback to students and teachers alike.
4. Librarian
- National average salary: $56,415 per year
A librarian is a professional who cares for the materials in a school or public library. Their primary duties include selecting, acquiring, classifying, cataloging, circulating, and maintaining the library’s collection of books, newspapers, magazines, movies, and computers. They are responsible for ensuring that the library’s collection is comprehensive, up-to-date, and organized in a way that is easily accessible to library patrons.
In addition to managing the library’s materials, librarians also play an important role in helping visitors locate and use the resources they need. They may answer guests’ questions, provide reference assistance, and teach visitors how to use library resources effectively. They are also responsible for managing the library’s budget, which includes purchasing new materials and equipment as needed.
5. Guidance counselor
- National average salary: $53,529 per year
Guidance counselors play a crucial role in the overall well-being and academic success of elementary, middle, and high school students. They are responsible for providing emotional support, guidance, and counseling services to help students overcome various challenges and achieve their full potential. Their primary duties include helping students identify their strengths, interests, and skills and providing guidance on further developing those skills.
They also assist students in managing conflicts, improving personal and social development, and cultivating positive study habits. Guidance counselors play a significant role in ensuring students’ academic success by helping them set academic goals, developing academic plans, and providing support to achieve those goals. They also guide students in navigating the college application process and making informed career choices based on their interests and skills.
6. Curator
- National average salary: $57,731 per year
A Curator is a professional who manages collections of art, historical documents, and historical artifacts in museums. They are responsible for acquiring, caring, and curating museum displays, ensuring that the collections are preserved and displayed in the best possible way.
The day-to-day responsibilities of curators vary depending on the museum they work for, but they generally include researching and acquiring items for a museum’s collection, cataloging and organizing collections, creating displays, and providing information to museum visitors. Curators often collaborate with other museum professionals, such as conservators, educators, and exhibit designers, to develop and implement exhibitions and educational programs for the public.
A successful curator must have a deep understanding of art history, cultural studies, and the principles of museum management, as well as strong research, organizational, and communication skills. The average annual salary for curators in the United States is $62,023.
7. Corporate trainer
- National average salary: $59,865 per year
A corporate trainer plays a crucial role in a business’s success by providing essential training to new and existing employees. They work in corporate environments and are responsible for instructing employees on core job skills. The primary duties of a corporate trainer include developing training plans, creating training materials, delivering employee training, and assessing employee progress during training sessions.
Corporate trainers must have excellent communication and presentation skills to deliver training clearly and concisely. They must also know the company’s policies, procedures, and products to provide accurate and up-to-date information to employees. Additionally, they must stay current on the latest industry trends and regulations to ensure their training remains relevant and effective.
The average national salary for a corporate trainer is $61,736 per year. However, this can vary depending on the industry, location, and experience level. Overall, corporate trainers play a critical role in the success of a company by ensuring that employees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their jobs effectively.
8. Educational consultant
- National average salary: $61,432 per year
An educational consultant provides academic guidance and support to various stakeholders in the education sector, such as students, parents, school boards, teachers, and academic organizations. The primary role of an educational consultant is to assess the academic needs of their clients and provide recommendations on areas such as curriculum development, student activities, technology integration, and classroom improvements.
Educational consultants work closely with their clients to identify their goals and objectives and then develop customized plans to help them achieve them. They may also conduct research and analysis to identify emerging trends and best practices in the education sector and incorporate these findings into their recommendations.
In addition to providing guidance and support, educational consultants may also offer training and professional development programs to help their clients improve their skills and knowledge in various areas such as teaching, leadership, and technology. They may also assist with developing and implementing education policies and programs at the local, state, or national level.
9. Principal
- National average salary: $105,298 per year
The role of a Principal is crucial, as they are responsible for overseeing the overall functioning of the school, whether elementary, middle, or high school. Their primary duties include devising a strategic plan for the school’s growth, developing and implementing standardized curricula, fostering parent involvement in the student’s education, and monitoring student progress.
They also evaluate the effectiveness of teachers, establish school policies and procedures, and supervise the actions of students, teachers, and staff. In a nutshell, the Principal is the driving force behind a school’s success, ensuring that students receive a quality education and teachers have the necessary resources to provide it.
10. Life skills trainer
- National average salary: $40,596 per year
Life skills trainers play a vital role in helping clients recover from illness, injury, or disability. They work closely with them to teach them the basic life skills necessary to accomplish and manage everyday tasks. These skills may include cooking, personal hygiene, finances, time management, communication, and problem-solving.
Life skills trainers are often employed by hospitals, rehabilitation centers, community centers, and private organizations. They develop personalized training plans for each client, considering their unique needs and abilities. They may also provide emotional support and encouragement to help clients overcome challenges and improve their quality of life. The national average salary for life skills trainers is $43,810 per year, but this can vary depending on experience, location, and employer.
11. Personal trainer
- National average salary: $40,688 per year
A personal trainer is a fitness professional who works with clients to help them achieve their fitness goals. They begin by evaluating a client’s fitness level, health history, and lifestyle to design a customized exercise program tailored to their needs. Personal trainers teach proper exercise techniques and form, and motivate their clients to stay on track with their fitness plan.
In addition to designing workout routines, personal trainers also help clients with their diet and nutrition. They may provide guidance on healthy eating habits and refer clients to registered dietitians for more specialized advice.
Personal trainers are responsible for tracking their clients’ progress, assessing their fitness level improvements, and adjusting the workout plan as necessary. They may also offer advice and support to help clients overcome any obstacles or setbacks they may encounter on their fitness journey.
12. Medical assistant
- National average salary: $42,394 per year
A medical assistant is a healthcare professional who assists physicians and other medical staff in various clinical and administrative tasks. They typically work in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities and are responsible for providing quality care to patients.
At the core of their duties, medical assistants perform basic patient care tasks, such as taking vital signs, collecting medical histories and personal information, and escorting patients to examination rooms. They also handle administrative tasks, including answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, and managing patient billing and insurance.
Medical assistants are critical in educating patients about their diagnoses and treatment plans. They provide patients with important information regarding their health, including medication instructions, dietary guidelines, and follow-up care. Additionally, they assist physicians with clinical procedures, such as preparing patients for exams and assisting with minor surgeries.
Medical assistants typically complete a formal training program or on-the-job training in education and training. They must have a strong understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology and proficiency in medical software and electronic health records.
13. Child protection practitioner
- National average salary: $47,304 per year
A child protection practitioner is a professional who works in child welfare to ensure children’s health, safety, and overall well-being. This role involves investigating claims of abuse or neglect against a child and determining the level of risk they may be facing.
Child protection practitioners work with families and other professionals in the field to identify behaviors or parenting practices that may pose a risk to the child’s safety and develop strategies to mitigate or eliminate those risks. This may involve providing support and guidance to parents or caregivers, working with law enforcement or other agencies to ensure the child’s safety, or coordinating with medical or mental health professionals to address any health or developmental concerns the child may have.
In addition to these direct service responsibilities, child protection practitioners must also maintain accurate and detailed records of their interactions with families and other professionals and may be called upon to testify in court proceedings related to the children they serve. The national average salary for child protection practitioners is $46,154 per year.
14. Activities director
- National average salary: $51,847 per year
Activities directors are professionals who work in retirement communities, assisted living facilities, and residential healthcare settings. They plan and coordinate recreational and therapeutic activities for seniors and, among other duties, select stimulating and fun activities that cater to the needs and interests of the seniors they serve.
They may also supervise facilitators, book entertainment, and create an activities calendar. Activities directors need to have a keen understanding of seniors’ physical and cognitive abilities to ensure that the activities they plan are appropriate and engaging. Additionally, they must have excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities effectively. The national average salary for an activities director is $44,455 per year.
15. Substance abuse counselor
- National average salary: $52,172 per year
A substance abuse counselor plays a vital role in helping individuals overcome addiction and substance abuse issues. They work with clients one-on-one, providing emotional and therapeutic support throughout recovery. This involves identifying the root cause of addiction and working with clients to develop a personalized recovery plan that addresses their unique needs.
Substance abuse counselors are responsible for assessing clients’ mental and emotional health, as well as their substance abuse history, to identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to their addiction. They then use a range of therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and group therapy, to help clients overcome addiction and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
In addition to providing therapy, substance abuse counselors also act as advocates for their clients, helping them navigate the complex healthcare system and access the resources they need to succeed in recovery. This may involve referring clients to community resources, such as support groups and 12-step programs, or working with insurance companies to ensure clients have access to the care they need.
16. Dental assistant
- National average salary: $69,554 per year
Dental assistants are important in ensuring dental offices run smoothly and efficiently. They assist dentists in various tasks, including sterilizing and organizing dental tools and equipment, taking X-rays, and preparing patients for dental procedures. Additionally, they may perform administrative duties such as managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and answering phone calls.
Dental assistants are also responsible for ensuring that the dental office maintains a clean and safe environment for patients and staff. With an average salary of $43,476 per year, they are an essential part of any dental team.
17. Occupational therapist assistant
- National average salary: $74,218 per year
An occupational therapist assistant is crucial in helping patients who have suffered from an injury or event. They work closely with occupational therapists to implement treatment plans designed to help patients recover, improve, and maintain mobility and strength. This involves providing hands-on support to patients during therapy sessions and helping them make adjustments to their daily routines and activities to promote healing and progress.
In addition to supporting patients in their recovery, occupational therapy assistants also help people of any age re-adjust to the demands of their workplace, school, or home life. This can involve providing guidance on ergonomic adjustments to workstations, helping patients develop new skills to perform tasks in a different way, and providing ongoing support to ensure that patients can maintain their progress over the long term.
18. Board-certified behavior analyst
- National average salary: $78,582 per year
A board-certified behavior analyst is a trained professional who specializes in assessing and treating individuals with behavioral issues or disorders. They work with patients to identify problematic behaviors and develop targeted interventions to address those behaviors. Behavior analysts use various assessment tools and techniques, including direct observation, interviews with patients and family members, and standardized tests, to gather information about a patient’s behavior.
Once the assessment is complete, the behavior analyst develops a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs. This plan may include various interventions, such as teaching new skills, modifying the environment to reduce problem behaviors, and providing positive reinforcement for desirable behaviors.
Behavior analysts work closely with other mental health care professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers, to ensure that the patient receives comprehensive care. They may also collaborate with educators, employers, and other service providers to ensure the patient’s needs are met in all aspects of their life.
Board-certified behavior analysts may work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They may specialize in research or applied behavior analysis, which involves applying research findings to clinical practice.
According to recent data, the national average salary for board-certified behavior analysts is $78,083 per year. This profession is in high demand as the need for behavioral health services continues to grow.
19. Registered nurse
- National average salary: $92,607 per year
Registered nurses (RNs) play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by providing care and treatment to patients suffering from various health conditions. They work alongside physicians to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. RNs are responsible for monitoring and evaluating patient health, administering medication, checking vital signs, observing symptoms, and recording medical histories. In addition to these tasks, RNs collaborate with physicians, healthcare professionals, patients, and their families to develop an effective treatment plan.
RNs are involved in every stage of patient care, from initial assessment and diagnosis to follow-up care and recovery. They monitor patients’ progress and modify treatment plans as needed. RNs must also educate and support patients and their families, ensuring they understand their diagnosis, treatment plan, and any potential side effects of medications or procedures.
20. Psychologist
- National average salary: $98,133 per year
Psychologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in studying human behavior and mental processes. They work with individuals, families, groups, and organizations to help them cope with mental health issues and improve their overall well-being.
Psychologists perform a wide range of duties, including administering tests to diagnose mental health conditions, providing counseling services to help patients manage their emotions, developing treatment plans to address specific mental health problems, and conducting research to advance our understanding of the human mind.
They may also work with other healthcare professionals to develop effective treatment strategies for patients with complex mental health issues. With their knowledge and expertise, psychologists play a vital role in improving the lives of people affected by mental illness.
21. Event planner
- National average salary: $49,188 per year
An event planner is a professional who specializes in planning and organizing various events, including but not limited to birthday parties, weddings, anniversary parties, bridal showers, and baby showers. The primary role of an event planner is to work closely with clients and understand their vision for the event. They then use their expertise to plan and coordinate all aspects of the event, ensuring that it runs smoothly and meets the client’s expectations.
To achieve this, event planners need excellent organizational skills, creativity, and the ability to think on their feet. They must also be able to manage a project from start to finish, which involves budget management, vendor selection, venue selection, and logistics coordination, among other responsibilities.
Event planners typically start by meeting with clients to discuss their requirements and preferences, including the budget. Based on this information, they create a detailed plan that outlines the event’s key elements, such as the theme, venue, catering, entertainment, and decorations. They work closely with vendors to ensure everything is in place and manage the event on the day, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
22. Freelance writer
- National average salary: $49,265 per year
A freelance writer is an individual who works as an independent contractor to create written content for a variety of clients. Their primary duties include generating engaging and informative content for different mediums such as blogs, websites, social media, and print advertising like brochures.
Freelance writers are responsible for researching topics, conducting interviews, and writing articles that reflect the client’s brand voice and preferences. They must be able to write clearly and concisely, using proper grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.
In addition to writing, freelance writers must also have excellent communication skills to work with clients and editors to ensure that all content meets the desired standards. They must have a keen eye for detail and be able to meet deadlines while managing multiple projects simultaneously.
The national average salary for a freelance writer is $74,316 per year, although this can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the types of clients they work with.
23. Insurance agent
- National average salary: $55,583 per year
An insurance agent sells various types of insurance policies to individuals and businesses. Their primary responsibility is to assist clients in selecting the most suitable insurance products to meet their specific needs. They have an in-depth understanding of various insurance policies and can explain their features and benefits to clients clearly and concisely.
Furthermore, insurance agents screen clients to ensure they meet the eligibility requirements for the policies they are interested in. They also use their excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with clients, listen to their needs and concerns, and provide them with expert advice and guidance.
Insurance agents are also responsible for closing sales and completing insurance applications. They ensure that all the necessary paperwork is filled out correctly and that the clients fully understand the terms and conditions of the policies they are signing up for.
24. Paralegal
- National average salary: $56,444 per year
A paralegal is an essential legal team member who provides extensive support to lawyers and attorneys. They are responsible for a wide range of administrative and communication tasks, including organizing and maintaining files, drafting legal documents, and conducting legal research. Paralegals are also required to attend client meetings and depositions, handle client billing, and perform other legal work as the lawyers need it.
In addition, paralegals are responsible for reviewing and summarizing legal documents such as contracts, pleadings, and discovery requests. They also assist in preparing for trials and hearings, which involves organizing exhibits, preparing witness lists, and drafting motions and briefs.
To be successful in this role, a paralegal must have excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask effectively. They must also possess strong written and verbal communication skills and be comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
According to national salary data, the average annual salary for a paralegal in the United States is $55,228. However, this can vary depending on location, experience, and the size of the law firm or organization they work for.
25. Social media manager
- National average salary: $56,701 per year
The role of a social media manager is crucial in today’s digital age. They are responsible for managing a company’s social media profiles, which includes strategizing effective ways to reach marketing and sales goals. This requires creating engaging posts, managing social media marketing campaigns, building brand awareness, and responding to comments.
Moreover, social media managers also collaborate with other departments to ensure consistency in branding and messaging across all social media platforms. They conduct research to keep up-to-date with the latest trends and changes in social media algorithms to optimize their social media strategies. Additionally, they analyze social media metrics to measure the effectiveness of their campaigns and make data-driven decisions to achieve their goals.
26. Sales and marketing manager
- National average salary: $57,293 per year
As a sales and marketing manager, your primary responsibility is to promote your company’s products and services and build brand recognition. You will develop and execute innovative sales strategies and advertising campaigns to expand your customer base. You will also need to prepare and analyze budgets to ensure that your company’s financial resources are utilized to their maximum potential.
Additionally, you will be responsible for managing the sales team and ensuring that they meet their goals and quotas. This will require you to provide regular feedback, coaching, and motivation to meet the team’s objectives. A successful sales and marketing manager must possess strong communication, leadership, and analytical skills to manage and grow the business effectively.
27. Editor
- National average salary: $57,916 per year
The role of an editor is crucial in the world of publishing. Editors are responsible for reviewing and improving a wide range of written material. They work with various content types, including magazines, books, newspapers, websites, and print advertisements. Their primary goal is ensuring the material is well-written, engaging, and accurate.
Editors are tasked with making revisions and edits to the content as necessary, working to refine the language, structure, and overall message of the piece. They work closely with writers to ensure their goals and objectives are clearly understood and provide guidance and feedback on their work.
In addition to editing content, editors also play a key role in selecting pitches for publication. They review submissions from writers and determine which pieces best fit their publication. This requires a keen understanding of the target audience and a strong sense of what makes for compelling and engaging content.
28. Human resources specialist
- National average salary: $58,039 per year
A human resources specialist plays a crucial role in any organization, managing all aspects of the employee lifecycle. This includes recruiting and hiring new employees, conducting interviews, screening job candidates, and onboarding new hires. Once employees are onboarded, HR specialists continue to work with them throughout their tenure to resolve any issues, manage employee benefits, and maintain a positive work culture.
They also serve as a mediator to resolve employee conflicts, ensuring a productive and harmonious work environment. Given the essential nature of this role, the national average salary for a human resources specialist is $47,207 per year, with opportunities for advancement based on experience and performance.
29. Research analyst
- National average salary: $61,044 per year
A research analyst is a highly skilled professional responsible for conducting extensive research and analysis on various subjects pertaining to their company and industry. They gather data from various sources, input it into specialized software programs, and analyze it to identify patterns, trends, and insights that can help their company make better business decisions.
Research analysts collect and analyze data using both quantitative and qualitative methods, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and statistical analysis.
They also monitor market trends, industry developments, and competitive landscapes to help their company stay ahead of the curve and maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace. In addition to research and analysis, research analysts also prepare reports and presentations to share their findings with key stakeholders and decision-makers within their organization.
30. Executive Assistant
- National average salary: $61,740 per year
An executive assistant is a crucial role in any organization that requires support for high-level executives. The primary responsibility of an executive assistant is to provide administrative and clerical support to executive leaders. This includes answering phone calls, answering emails, scheduling appointments, and managing calendars. An executive assistant also prepares meeting agendas, manages travel arrangements, and sends memos to ensure the executive leader is informed and prepared for important meetings and events.
Additionally, executive assistants may manage budgets, process invoices, and maintain confidential files and documents. They act as a point of contact between the executive leader and other team members, clients, and stakeholders. They also play a critical role in coordinating and organizing events, such as conferences, seminars, and business meetings.
31. Sales representative
- National average salary: $68,157 per year
The primary responsibility of a sales representative is to sell a company’s products or services to potential customers, businesses, and wholesalers. During the sales cycle, they are responsible for identifying and engaging with new customers, presenting the product’s features, benefits, and value proposition, closing the sale, and ensuring that the customer has a positive experience with the company.
Sales representatives often work closely with marketing teams and other departments to develop and implement sales strategies that align with the company’s overall goals. They must also stay updated with industry trends and product knowledge to effectively communicate with potential customers and address their concerns and questions.
In addition to sales, a sales representative may also be responsible for maintaining relationships with existing customers, providing customer support, and addressing any issues or concerns that may arise.
32. After school program director
- National average salary: $52,392 per year
As an after school program director, you’re the architect of kids’ time beyond the school bell. Your role isn’t confined to the classroom; it’s about creating engaging activities like arts and crafts, board games, and clubs. Maybe you’ll even establish a vibrant community garden! But it’s more than just fun and games.
You’ll extend support by reaching out to nearby schools and communities, rallying volunteers, securing donations from local businesses, and organizing holiday events. This position isn’t just about overseeing activities; it’s about sculpting an enriching environment where children thrive beyond the traditional academic setting.
33. Public relations manager
- National average salary: $65,199 per year
A public relations manager is crucial in creating and maintaining a positive public image for their company or client. They are responsible for developing and implementing effective communication strategies that help to build and promote the brand’s reputation.
This involves various tasks, including responding to customer reviews and media requests, organizing press conferences, and creating compelling content highlighting the brand’s accomplishments and strengths.
To achieve their goals, public relations managers work closely with various stakeholders, including marketing teams, executives, and external partners such as journalists and influencers. They also monitor industry trends and consumer behavior to stay current on emerging issues and opportunities.
34. Sales manager
National average salary: $75,765 per year
A sales manager is a key player in a company’s sales department. They are responsible for managing and leading a team of sales representatives to achieve company goals and meet sales quotas. Sales managers oversee the daily activities of their team, including training, coaching, and mentoring.
They are also responsible for analyzing sales data and providing reports to upper management. In addition to managing their team, sales managers may also meet with clients to establish and maintain strong business relationships. Overall, a successful sales manager must possess excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, a deep understanding of the sales process and the ability to motivate and inspire their team.
35. Realtor
- National average salary: $93,403 per year
A realtor is a licensed professional who buys and sells real estate properties such as homes, apartments, commercial buildings, and land. They play a crucial role in the real estate industry by assisting clients in the buying or selling process and providing guidance and support throughout the transaction.
Realtors work with clients to understand their needs and preferences and help them find properties that match their criteria. They also guide clients through preparing and listing their properties for sale, including marketing, advertising, and pricing strategies. During the buying or selling process, realtors act as intermediaries between clients and other parties, such as inspectors, appraisers, lenders, and attorneys. They ensure all legal and financial requirements are met and advocate for their client’s interests.
In addition to these primary duties, realtors provide valuable expertise in property valuation, market trends, and negotiation techniques. They keep up-to-date with the latest laws and regulations related to real estate transactions and maintain a network of industry contacts to assist clients with any additional needs.
36. Attorney
- National average salary: $96,057 per year
An attorney is a highly skilled and trained legal professional who has obtained a license to practice law. They are responsible for advising clients, representing them in criminal and civil cases, and protecting their legal rights in court. Attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of the law and are equipped with the knowledge and experience to handle a wide range of legal matters.
Attorneys represent clients in court, prepare legal documents, conduct legal research, and negotiate on their behalf. They may work in various settings, including law firms, government agencies, and corporations.
Attorneys are expected to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They must work closely with clients to understand their needs and concerns. They must also be highly analytical and detail-oriented. They must review and analyze complex legal documents and statutes to build solid cases for their clients.
37. Standardized test developer
- National average salary: $70,000 per year
Creating standardized tests involves researching what to test, crafting questions, fact-checking materials, and collaborating with others. Teachers’ planning and communication skills are a great fit for this. But hold on—considering a job in test development might prompt a big “Why bother?” Teaching frustrations with these tests is real, but by getting involved, change can happen from within. We can work to make these tests more meaningful and less harsh for students.
38. Curriculum developer
- National average salary: $68,045 per year
As a curriculum developer, you wield the power to transform educational content. Fueled by firsthand experience as a teacher, you reshape and refine curricula to resonate deeply with students. Nights spent grappling with lackluster or outdated materials become opportunities for innovation.
Your mission? To craft engaging, culturally relevant lessons that bridge the gap between traditional content and the ever-evolving world. High school English transformed in your hands—text selections shifted to modern relevance, life skills seamlessly woven in, and current events woven into the fabric of learning. Now, your expertise stands poised to benefit your fellow educators and students nationwide.
You empower teachers with effective, engaging resources by crafting materials, designing activities, and providing invaluable instructional guides. Your impact extends beyond K-12; advanced degrees open doors to shaping higher education at colleges and universities. Moreover, your skills aren’t confined to academia—corporate realms beckon, seeking your talent to sculpt comprehensive training programs. As a curriculum developer, you hold the reins of educational evolution, poised to shape minds and transform learning landscapes across diverse realms.
39. Marketing Coordinator
- National average salary: $68,045 per year
The role of a marketing coordinator encompasses various skills that educators often possess, despite seeming unrelated. Valuable traits such as creativity, diligence, effective communication, and adept project management involving multiple stakeholders are highly sought-after in marketing.
Specialization in areas like social media, email, search engine marketing (SEM), e-commerce, or content marketing is common within this position. However, some coordinators handle a broader spectrum of tasks across these domains. Additional training or courses in digital marketing might be necessary to refine specific skills essential for the role.
40. Publicist
- National average salary: $51,065 per year
Publicists typically earn an average salary of around $51,065 per year, with a pay range between $34,000 and $92,000 annually. Whether representing companies or individuals, a publicist’s primary responsibility is to ensure that their client maintains a positive presence in front of their audience.
They work across diverse sectors like corporations, government departments, artists, writers, and educational institutions. Tasks often include managing social media, crafting and distributing press releases, and organizing media appearances and speaking opportunities. For educators skilled in organization, writing, and, crucially, diplomacy, transitioning into publicity could be a promising career move beyond the classroom.
41. Translator
- National average salary: $50,715 per year
Working as a translator involves converting information from one language to another. Typically, translators possess strong proficiency in multiple languages and often provide context, cultural insight, and explanations while bridging communication gaps.
They work across diverse sectors, such as healthcare, finance, government, education, and publishing. The average salary for translators is around $50,715, with a pay range from $25,000 to $78,000. If you’ve taught a language besides English or have a high proficiency in another language, pursuing a career in translation might be a great fit for you.
Tips to help you pivot to other jobs as a teacher
Teachers possess a unique skill set that can be incredibly valuable in many industries. Here’s how to make a smooth transition:
1. Find your spark:
Not everything about teaching may have been a chore. What parts did you truly enjoy? Did you love explaining complex topics? Highlighting those passions will guide you toward fulfilling new roles. For example, if public speaking energizes you, consider jobs that utilize that skill.
2. Know your preferences:
Beyond the job title, what kind of work environment suits you best? Would you prefer a traditional office setting, a dynamic startup, or something remote? Do you want to stay connected with children or adults? Identifying your ideal work style helps narrow down your options.
3. Leverage your network:
Connections are key! Use platforms like LinkedIn or reach out to personal contacts to explore fields or companies that interest you. Informational interviews with professionals in your target area can provide valuable insights and potential leads.
4. Recognize your strengths:
Reflect on positive feedback you’ve received from students, parents, and colleagues. Awards or recognition can also offer clues. These accolades highlight your strengths and showcase what you can bring to your next role.
5. Highlight transferable skills:
Teaching equips you with a diverse toolkit! Emphasize your ability to break down information, craft engaging presentations, and connect with audiences using data. In resumes, cover letters, and interviews, showcase these skills with concrete examples of how they made a difference.
6. Tailor your story:
Speak the language of your target industry. Ditch the education jargon and frame your experiences in terms that resonate with potential employers. Craft a narrative that demonstrates how your skills perfectly align with their needs.
7. Consider professional guidance:
A career coach, especially one familiar with teacher-to-other-profession transitions, can be incredibly helpful. Their personalized advice and expertise can equip you to confidently navigate this career move.