20 Exciting Jobs Working with Babies (Salaries and Requirements for 2026)

Are you passionate about caring for babies? If your dream is to spend your days nurturing and supporting little ones, then pursuing a career in this field could be incredibly fulfilling. Numerous job opportunities exist that cater to the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of infants. In today’s fast-evolving labor market, there are more options than ever to turn your love for babies into a rewarding career.

Key Takeaways:

• The highest-paying jobs working with babies include Pediatrician, Neonatal Nurse, and Child Psychologist.

• Entry-level positions in this field encompass Daycare Workers, Nannies, and Babysitters.

• If you prefer remote work while still engaging with babies, consider becoming a Blogger or starting your own daycare business.

• Many careers involving babies require specific qualifications and certifications, so it’s essential to research the requirements before pursuing a path.

5 High-Paying Careers Working with Babies

Caring for babies is not only rewarding but can also be lucrative. While many jobs in this sector may offer modest salaries, the following positions stand out for their higher earning potential.

1. Pediatrician
   Average Annual Salary: $169,000

   Pediatricians focus on the medical needs of infants and children, making this a highly rewarding career for those passionate about healthcare. This role requires extensive education, including medical school and specialized training.

   Job Requirements: A Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) degree, followed by residency training in pediatrics.

   Find Pediatrician jobs near me

2. Pediatric or Neonatal Nurse
   Average Annual Salary: $68,000

   Neonatal nurses provide critical care to newborns, especially those facing medical challenges. This role is vital in educating families about infant care.

   Job Requirements: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a valid nursing license.

   Find Neonatal nurse jobs near me

3. Child Psychologist
   Average Annual Salary: $70,000

   Child psychologists specialize in understanding and treating emotional and behavioral issues in children, including infants. They play a critical role in early mental health intervention.

   Job Requirements: A doctoral degree in psychology and state licensure.

   Find Child psychologist jobs near me

4. Doula
   Average Annual Salary: $61,797

   Doulas support mothers before, during, and after childbirth, offering emotional and physical support. This role is essential for fostering a nurturing environment for both mother and baby.

   Job Requirements: Training and experience attending births; certification may be beneficial.

   Find Doula jobs near me

5. Talent Agent
   Average Annual Salary: $49,000

   Talent agents represent young actors, including babies, in the entertainment industry. This role requires strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of the entertainment market.

   Job Requirements: A background in business or communications is often preferred.

   Find Talent agent jobs near me

5 Entry-Level Jobs Working with Babies

If you’re eager to work with infants but unsure where to start, consider these entry-level positions.

1. Daycare Teacher
   Average Annual Salary: $35,000

   Daycare teachers facilitate enriching activities for infants and toddlers, helping to foster early learning experiences. This role is crucial for developmental support.

   Job Requirements: A degree in early childhood education or a related field is often required.

   Find Daycare teacher jobs near me

2. Babysitter
   Average Annual Salary: $20,000

   Babysitting can be a flexible job for teens and adults alike. Many certification programs are available to help prepare you for this role.

   Job Requirements: First aid and CPR certification are beneficial.

   Find Babysitter jobs near me

3. Nanny/Au Pair
   Average Annual Salary: $24,651

   Nannies typically provide more comprehensive care, often residing with the family they work for, and may accompany the child throughout their developmental stages.

   Job Requirements: Experience in childcare and relevant soft skills are essential.

   Find Nanny jobs near me

4. Swim Instructor
   Average Annual Salary: $23,000

   Swim instructors often lead classes designed to familiarize babies with water in a safe and playful environment.

   Job Requirements: Customer service skills and CPR certification are typically required.

   Find Swim instructor jobs near me

5. Nursery Worker
   Average Annual Salary: $25,000

   Nursery workers care for infants for short periods, handling tasks such as feeding and diaper changes in various settings.

   Job Requirements: Strong physical abilities and compassion are critical.

   Find Nursery worker jobs near me

5 Work-From-Home Jobs Working with Babies

For those seeking a flexible work environment while caring for babies, here are some options that allow you to work from home.

1. Daycare Owner/Operator
   Average Annual Salary: $25,173

   Owning a daycare allows you to create a nurturing environment while managing your own business. This role combines caregiving with entrepreneurship.

   Job Requirements: Research state regulations regarding home daycare operations.

   Find Daycare owner jobs near me

2. Newborn/Birth Photographer
   Average Annual Salary: $72,000

   As a newborn photographer, you can capture precious early moments for families. This role combines creativity with a love for babies.

   Job Requirements: Proficiency in photography and creativity are essential.

   Find Artist jobs near me

3. Clothes Designer
   Average Annual Salary: $52,000

   Designing baby clothing is a niche but growing industry. Parents often seek unique and stylish outfits for their children.

   Job Requirements: A degree in fashion design or a related field is beneficial.

   Find Clothes designer jobs near me

4. Massage Therapist
   Average Annual Salary: $45,000

   Infant massage therapy can help with various physical issues. This specialized field requires specific training.

   Job Requirements: Massage therapy certification and experience.

   Find Massage therapist jobs near me

5. Blogger/Social Media Influencer
   Average Annual Salary: $41,048

   Share your experiences and insights about parenting through blogging or social media. This can be a fulfilling way to connect with others while making an income.

   Job Requirements: Strong writing skills and familiarity with social media platforms.

   Find Blogger jobs near me

5 Other Jobs Working with Babies

Many roles involve working with infants outside traditional categories. Here are some additional careers that may interest you.

1. Nurse Midwife
   Average Annual Salary: $83,570

   Nurse midwives play a crucial role in prenatal and postpartum care, assisting mothers during labor and early infant care.

   Job Requirements: Advanced education in midwifery and state licensure.

   Find Nurse Midwife jobs near me

2. Lactation Consultant
   Average Annual Salary: $68,118

   Lactation consultants support new mothers in breastfeeding, providing essential guidance and education.

   Job Requirements: A background in nursing or nutrition, plus relevant certification.

   Find Lactation consultant jobs near me

3. Pediatric Physical Therapist
   Average Annual Salary: $74,000

   Pediatric physical therapists work with children facing physical challenges, aiding in their development and rehabilitation.

   Job Requirements: A degree in physical therapy and state licensure.

   Find Pediatric physical therapist jobs near me

4. Childcare Specialist
   Average Annual Salary: $27,811

   Childcare specialists focus on newborns, often providing specialized care and support for new parents.

   Job Requirements: Relevant education and certifications in childcare.

   Find Childcare specialist jobs near me

5. Social Worker
   Average Annual Salary: $51,000

   Social workers advocate for the welfare of families and children, often working in challenging situations but making a significant impact.

   Job Requirements: A degree in social work and relevant experience.

   Find Social worker jobs near me

Frequently Asked Questions About Working with Babies

1. Do you need a degree to work with babies?

   Most careers in childcare require at least an associate degree. Degrees in child development prepare individuals to work effectively with children of various ages. Ensure you check state-specific certification requirements.

2. What job takes care of sick babies after birth?

   A neonatal nurse cares for sick infants post-birth. They provide essential care in the critical early days and weeks of life, especially for premature or ill newborns. A minimum of an ADN or BSN is required for this role.

3. What is a postpartum nurse?

   A postpartum nurse supports mothers and newborns after childbirth. They help educate mothers on recovery and newborn care. An ADN and BSN are typically required for this position.

Final Thoughts

Careers focused on infants often emphasize healthcare due to the specialized needs of newborns. If you have a passion for nurturing babies and an interest in healthcare, this may be your ideal path. For those leaning towards childcare without a medical focus, various opportunities exist that allow you to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a flexible work-life balance.

Remember, working with babies requires immense dedication and love. While it can be challenging at times, it is undoubtedly among the most rewarding professions available.

References

1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Child Day Care Services Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics

Author

Kristin Kizer

Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.