Explore Careers in Early Childhood Education

ABA therapists work with children, often those with autism, to improve behavior and social skills. Their interventions are crucial in helping children achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life.

Focus Area: Special Education
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $50,000 - $70,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, or a related field. Certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) may be required.

​​Child care assistants provide es​sential support in nurturing young children, helping them develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills in a safe and structured environment. They help create a foundation for lifelong learning and well-being.

Focus Area: Education
Education Level: Entry Level
2024 Wage Range: $14 - $18 per hour
Preferred Education Level: High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require early childhood education (ECE) coursework or certification.

Child care substitutes allow providers to attend to important tasks like professional development, doctor's apointments, mental health days or administraitive tasks while still supporting family child care needs.

Focus Area: Education
Education Level: Entry Level
2024 Wage Range: $20-22 per hour up to 18 hours per week
Preferred Education Level: CCSO orientation & onboarding modules, First Aid/CPR, Food Handler and safety set trainingseducation costs reimbursable by CCSO

​Child care owners manage and oversee child care programs, ensuring they operate efficiently and provide a nurturing environment. Their leadership impacts the quality of care and education chil​dren receive, supporting working families and the community.

Focus Area: Entrepreneurship
Education Level: Technical
2024 Wage Range: $30,000 - $60,000+ annually (varies greatly based on the size and success of the business)
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Business Administration, or a related field. Experience in child care or education is also important.

​Social workers help families navigate challenges, providing support and resources that promote the well-being of children. Their work ensures that children have a stable environment conducive to learning and development.​

Focus Area: Social Services
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $70,000 - $90,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work (BSW or MSW). Licensure as a social worker (LCSW or LMSW) is typically required.

​These psychologists support the mental and emotional well-being of children, helping them overcome challenges that can affect their learning and development. They play a critical role in fostering healthy, productive students.​

Focus Area: Mental Health
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $55,000 - $80,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Doctorate (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in Psychology. Licensure as a clinical, counseling, or school psychologist is required.

Professors in early childhood education teach and engage early childhood students in practice and theory, research to advance the field and profession, and engage in community outreach, governance, and leadership.

Focus Area: Adult Education
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $60,000 - $110,000+ annually
Preferred Education Level: Master's or Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Early Childhood Education, Education, or a related field. Experience in teaching and research is also required.

Education assistants support classroom teachers by helping manage the learning environment and providing individual attention to students. They play a vital role in ensuring that all children receive the support they need to succeed.

Focus Area: Education
Education Level: Entry Level
2024 Wage Range: $15 - $20 per hour
Preferred Education Level: High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require coursework in education or early childhood development.

Family advocates work to ensure that families have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. They play a crucial role in advocating for the rights and well-being of children and families in various settings.

Focus Area: Social Services
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $18 - $25 per hour
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field. Experience in advocacy or social services is beneficial.

Home visitors work directly with families in their homes, offering guidance and support to parents in fostering their children's development. They strengthen family bonds and help ensure children grow up in healthy, supportive environments.​

Focus Area: Social Services
Education Level: Technical
2024 Wage Range: $18 - $28 per hour
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Early Childhood Education, or a related field. Some positions may require specific certification or training.

Job Skills:

• ​​Family engagement and communication
• Knowledge of child development and parenting strategies
• Case management and documentation skills
• Cultural competency and sensitivity
• Ability to work independently and manage time
• Community resource knowledge
• Problem-solving and crisis intervention skills​​
  

Instructional coordinators design and implement curricula that enhance educational programs. Their work ensures that teaching practices are effective and aligned with educational standards, improving student outcomes.

Focus Area: Adult Education
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $55,000 - $80,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, or a related field. Some positions may require administrative certification.

Job Skills:

• ​​Curriculum development and instructional design
• Teacher training and professional development
• Assessment and evaluation of educational programs
• Data analysis and decision-making
• Leadership and collaboration with educators
• Knowledge of educational standards and regulations
• Communication and presentation skills​
  

​Kindergarten teachers introduce young children to the formal education system, laying the groundwork for future academic achievement. They play a crucial role in developing foundational literacy, numeracy, and social skills.​

Focus Area: Education
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $50,000 - $70,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (with a Masters in teaching before applying for licensure) or Elementary Education. A teaching license specific to the state of Oregon is required.

An advanced lead teacher plays a critical role in early childhood education by providing comprehensive learning experiences for children. hese professionals must meet standards for supporting development, classroom management collaboration with families.

Focus Area: Education
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $23-35/hr
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree

Lead teachers guide young learners through key developmental stages, ensuring they receive a high-quality education that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. They play a pivotal role in preparing children for future academic success.​

Focus Area: Education
Education Level: Technical
2024 Wage Range: $18 - $25 per hour
Preferred Education Level: High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require early childhood education (ECE) coursework or certification.

Job Skills:

• ​​Curriculum development and planning
• Classroom management
• Assessment and evaluation of child progress
  
• Communication with parents and colleagues
• Leadership and mentoring skills
• Child development expertise
• Creativity in lesson planning​
  

Marriage and family counselors help families navigate challenges and improve their relationships. Their work is vital for maintaining healthy family dynamics, which positively impacts children’s development and well-being.

Focus Area: Mental Health
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $50,000 - $70,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, Counseling, or a related field. Licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is required.

​Mental health consultants support the emotional and psychological well-being of children, educators, and families in early childhood settings. They address behavioral and mental health challenges, fostering healthier, more resilient communities.​​​

Focus Area: Mental Health
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $60,000 - $85,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Master’s degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, or a related field. Licensure or certification as a mental health professional is typically required.

Nannies provide personalized care and attention to children in a home setting, supporting their development and well-being. Their role is crucial for families who seek high-quality, consistent care for their children.

Focus Area: Education
Education Level: Entry Level
2024 Wage Range: $15 - $25 per hour (varies based on experience and location)
Preferred Education Level: High school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer coursework in early childhood education or child development. CPR and first aid certification are often required.

Occupational therapists help children develop the skills they need for daily living and learning. Their work is essential in supporting children with developmental delays or disabilities, enabling them to participate fully in school and life.

Focus Area: Special Education
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $70,000 - $90,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. Licensure as an Occupational Therapist (OTR) is required.

Parent educators empower families with knowledge and skills to support their children’s development. Their guidance strengthens family units and helps create nurturing environments that promote healthy growth.

Focus Area: Adult Education
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $20 - $30 per hour
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Social Work, or a related field. Some positions may require specific certifications in parenting education.

Job Skills:

• ​​Knowledge of child development and parenting strategies
• Communication and teaching skills
• Cultural competency and sensitivity
• Counseling and support techniques
• Group facilitation and public speaking
• Resourcefulness and ability to connect families with services
• Documentation and program evaluation​
  

Physical therapists assist children in improving their physical mobility and function, which is crucial for their participation in school and recreational activities. Their work helps children achieve greater independence and quality of life.

Focus Area: Special Education
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $75,000 - $95,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT). Licensure as a Physical Therapist (PT) is required.

Policy analysts research and develop policies that impact education, health, and social services. Their work influences decision-making at the local, state, and national levels, shaping the systems that support children and families.

Focus Area: Public Policy
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $60,000 - $90,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, or a related field. A Master’s degree in Public Policy or a related field may be preferred.

These administrators ensure that preschool and child care programs run smoothly, meeting regulatory standards and providing high-quality educational experiences for young children. Their leadership shapes the early learning landscape.​​​

Focus Area: Leadership
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $45,000 - $70,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Education Administration, or a related field. Some positions may require a Master’s degree and experience in child care management.

Job Skills:

• ​​Leadership and team management
• Strategic planning and decision-making
• Budgeting and financial management
• Compliance with regulatory standards
• Communication and conflict resolution
• Program developme​nt and evaluation
• Staff recruitment and development​​
  

School administrators oversee the operation of schools, ensuring they provide a safe, supportive environment for learning. Their leadership is critical in shaping the educational experiences of students and the professional growth of teachers.

Focus Area: Leadership
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $80,000 - $110,000+ annually
Preferred Education Level: Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Administration, or a related field. Principal licensure or certification is required.

Quality improvement specialists ensure that early childhood programs meet high standards of care and education. Their work directly impacts the quality of services provided to young children and their families.

Focus Area: Adult Education
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $50,000 - $70,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Education Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or specialized certification in quality improvement may be preferred.

Registered Family Child Care Providers are essential for offering personalized, home-based childcare, especially in underserved areas with limited options; providing flexible schedules and culturally specific care.

Focus Area: Education
Education Level: Entry Level
2024 Wage Range: $14 - $18 per hour (rates vary)
Preferred Education Level: No formal Education is required. Required courses include First aid and CPR, Child Abuse and Neglect, food handler certification, Introduction to Child Care Health & Safety, and Family Child Care Overview

Social and human services assistants provide support to families and individuals in need, connecting them with resources and services. They play a key role in ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the help they need to thrive.

Focus Area: Social Services
Education Level: Technical
2024 Wage Range: $35,000 - $45,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field. Some positions may require specific certifications.

​Social science research assistants contribute to studies that inform educational practices and policies. Their work provides valuable data that can lead to improvements in early childhood education and child development programs.​

Focus Area: Research
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $35,000 - $55,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field. Some positions may require specialized training in research methods.

Social workers provide support and advocacy for individuals and families facing challenges, ensuring they have access to necessary resources. Their role is vital in promoting social justice and improving the well-being of communities.

Focus Area: Social Services
Education Level: Professional
2024 Wage Range: $50,000 - $65,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work (BSW or MSW). Licensure as a social worker (LCSW or LMSW) is typically required.

​These educators work with young children with disabilities, providing early intervention that can significantly impact their developmental trajectory. Their efforts promote inclusion and set the stage for future success.​ ​

Focus Area: Special Education
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $55,000 - $75,000 annually (Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education)
Preferred Education Level: There are two options for Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education (EI/ECSE) certification in Oregon: 1) TSPC certification: bachelor’s/master’s degree in EI/ECSE, with a teaching license and endorsement in Early Intervention: Special Education or 2) ODE Authorization certification: bachelor’s degree in early childhood, special education or related field

​Speech-language pathologists help children overcome communication challenges, enabling them to participate fully in educational and social settings. Their work is vital for children’s academic and social success.​

Focus Area: Special Education
Education Level: Advanced
2024 Wage Range: $60,000 - $85,000 annually
Preferred Education Level: Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist (CCC-SLP) is required.