Find a Job You Really Want In
In today’s evolving job market, former teachers are finding diverse and exciting career paths beyond the classroom. With a significant decline in those pursuing degrees in education and many educators leaving the profession, the question arises: what careers are they transitioning into?
We explored the job market to discover what former educators are doing after leaving teaching. By analyzing a vast number of resumes, we identified the top jobs that former teachers are pursuing. Below is a quick overview of the ten most popular roles.
- Customer Service Representative
- Sales Associate
- Administrative Assistant
- Internship
- Cashier
- Volunteer
- Office Manager
- Tutor
- Server
- Assistant Manager
While these roles may seem expected for former teachers, they often leverage the skills and experiences gained in the classroom, providing a solid foundation for success in various fields. However, there are also some surprising and intriguing career transitions worth highlighting.
Unique Career Paths for Former Educators
Here are some of the most interesting jobs that former teachers have pursued:
- Ship Worker
- President
- Bartender
- Floater
- Freelance Makeup Artist
- Child Protective Investigator
- Machine Operator
- Bus Driver
- Artist
- Sandwich Artist
These job titles may vary in appeal and attractiveness, but they certainly capture attention and highlight the versatility of skills that teachers possess.
How We Determined the Most Common Jobs of Former Teachers
By leveraging data from our extensive resume database, which includes over 7 million entries, we analyzed the work histories of individuals who previously worked in education. We focused on identifying roles that appeared frequently following their teaching careers, excluding further teaching positions, to create a ranked list of jobs.
Ship Worker
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.16%
Interestingly, some former teachers have taken to the seas, perhaps living out a literary dream in a way reminiscent of Herman Melville’s novels.
President
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.13%
While not necessarily “of the United States,” it’s still an impressive achievement to transition into such high-level positions.
Bartender
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.09%
This role is a natural fit for those who enjoy sharing knowledge and life advice, now enhanced with a little mixology!
Floater
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.03%
This position involves overseeing items in transit, which may not be as thrilling as it sounds but certainly has its own unique aspects.
Freelance Makeup Artist
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.03%
The transition from teaching to the glamorous world of makeup artistry is surprising and showcases the diverse talents of former educators.
Child Protective Investigator
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.02%
Former teachers can leverage their experience in child advocacy by becoming investigators, directly intervening to protect vulnerable children.
Machine Operator
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.06%
For those who prefer hands-on work, operating machinery offers a new avenue away from the classroom.
Bus Driver
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.06%
Driving a bus may not seem as exciting as other roles, but it still provides an opportunity to impact the lives of students in a different way.
Artist
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.07%
Many former educators embrace their creative sides, turning to art as a means of expression and fulfillment.
Sandwich Artist
Percentage of Former Teachers: 0.02%
Creativity can be found in unexpected places, and crafting sandwiches is no less an art form than painting.
Putting It All Together
That’s a snapshot of the diverse career journeys of former teachers. Below, you’ll find the complete ranked list of the most common jobs for these individuals.
Curious about the reasons behind the exodus of teachers from the profession? Explore our article on the contributing factors. If you’re still in college and contemplating your major, check out our guide on the most in-demand majors.
Detailed Ranking of the Most Common Jobs of Former Teachers
Author
Ryan Morris was a writer for the Zippia Advice blog who tried to make the job process a little more entertaining for all those involved. He obtained his BA and Masters from Appalachian State University.
