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From tutoring to camp counseling, there are plenty of ways to gain hands-on practice while making money. In this guide, we look at the 10 best summer jobs for education majors; jobs that pay, teach, and prepare you for the career you’re working toward.
Best Summer Jobs for Education Major Students
Summer is a perfect time to earn some cash and gain real-world experience. If you’re studying education, the right summer job can help you build skills that future teachers need. Here are 10 summer jobs that are a great fit for education majors.
1. Private Tutor
Private tutoring is one of the most flexible and rewarding summer jobs out there. You can work one-on-one with students in subjects you’re comfortable teaching, like math, science, or English. This role allows you to set your own hours and rates, making it easy to fit around your schedule.
What makes it great?
You set your schedule, pick your students, and charge your rates. Many parents look for summer tutors to help their kids catch up or get ahead for the next school year. It’s a perfect way to practice teaching techniques in a smaller, more relaxed setting.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Lesson planning
- Communication
- Adapting teaching methods to suit different learners
How to get started
Start by spreading the word about your own tutoring business to family, friends, and local high school students. Social media can also help you reach more people quickly; post about your services in local community groups or student forums. Websites like Wyzant and Care.com are also great for finding tutoring gigs.
2. Summer Camp Counselor
If you enjoy being outdoors and working with kids, consider becoming a summer camp counselor. This role involves supervising children, planning fun activities, and ensuring they have memorable summer months during the school year.
What makes it great?
You’ll build leadership skills, learn how to manage large groups of kids, and create engaging activities; things every teacher needs to master. Plus, it’s a job where you’re always on the move and never bored.
Extra perk: Some overnight summer vacation camps offer free room and meals for counselors.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Group management
- Activity planning
- Conflict resolution
How to get started
Look for camp counselor openings at local day camps, overnight camps, or specialized camps (like sports or arts). Many camps start hiring as early as spring
3. Teacher’s Assistant in Summer School
Summer break school gives kids a chance to catch up or improve their grades. As a teacher’s assistant, you’ll help run lessons, grade assignments, and work with students who need extra help. You might also assist with classroom organization and supervise small group work. This role offers hands-on teaching experience, allowing you to observe how experienced teachers manage classrooms and engage students.
What makes it great?
This job offers real classroom experience. You’ll see how teachers manage lessons, handle challenges, and connect with students. It’s a perfect way to prepare for student teaching later on.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Lesson delivery
- Classroom organization
- Supporting diverse learning needs
How to get started
Contact local schools or school districts. Many have summer programs and need assistants to support their teachers. You can also check their websites or job boards for summer openings and reach out directly to show your interest.
4. Nanny or Childcare Worker
Working as a nanny or childcare worker is another great option for education majors. You’ll spend time caring for children, planning fun activities, and maybe even helping with summer learning. This role lets you practice important skills you’ll use as a teacher. Responsibilities often include supervising playtime, preparing meals or snacks, and organizing educational games or crafts.
What makes it great?
This role teaches patience, organization, and creativity; all skills teachers use every day. You’ll also build relationships with kids and their families, which can be incredibly rewarding.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Childcare and behavioral management
- Activity planning
- Time management
How to get started
Look for jobs on platforms like Care.com or Sittercity. You can also check local job boards or ask family and friends for referrals.
5. Sports or Arts Instructor
Do you have a passion for sports, music, or art? Use it! Many summer programs look for arts or sports instructors to teach kids activities like soccer, painting, piano, or dance.
What makes it great?
It’s a chance to share something you love while gaining teaching experience. Leading group activities will help you practice communication, planning, and creative problem-solving.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Teaching specialization
- Group management
- Creativity and adaptability
How to get started
Reach out to community centers, summer camps, or arts and sports academies. Offer to run a summer class or assist in existing programs.
6. Library Assistant
Libraries are busy places in the summer, especially with programs for kids like story hours and reading challenges. As a library assistant, you’ll help organize events, assist kids with activities, and keep the library running smoothly.
What makes it great?
You’ll encourage a love for reading in children; a key skill for educators. This job is also quieter and less physically demanding than some others.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Organizational skills
- Event planning
- Helping kids build literacy skills
How to get started
Visit local libraries to ask about summer job openings. Many public libraries hire seasonal staff for their summer programs.
7. Daycare Assistant
Daycares often need extra help during the summer when more families enroll their children. As a daycare assistant, you’ll care for toddlers and preschoolers, organize playtime, and assist with meals or naps.
What makes it great?
You’ll gain early childhood education experience, which is especially helpful if you plan to teach younger grades. Plus, you’ll develop patience and a deeper understanding of kids’ needs.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Early childhood care
- Planning fun, educational activities
- Managing routines and schedules
How to get started
Check with local daycares or childcare centers. They often advertise positions on job boards or through word-of-mouth.
8. Lifeguard
Lifeguarding is a popular summer job, especially at pools, beaches, and summer camps. It’s not just about sitting in a chair; you’ll be responsible for keeping kids and families safe in the water.
What makes it great?
Lifeguarding teaches responsibility, focus, and strong communication skills. It also looks impressive on a CV because it shows you can handle serious responsibility.
Basic skills you’ll gain:
- Safety awareness
- Communication with kids and adults
- Problem-solving under pressure
How to get started
You’ll need to get certified in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid. Many community pools offer affordable certification courses.
9. Camp Activity Planner
As a camp activity planner, you’ll design schedules and organize events for summer camp programs. You’ll focus on creating fun, educational activities for kids to enjoy.
What makes it great?
This role helps you practice planning and creativity; two skills teachers use constantly. You’ll also learn how to keep kids engaged and excited, even during long days.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Event and activity planning
- Time management
- Creative thinking
How to get started
Reach out to summer camps or youth organizations. Some camps hire planners specifically for themed programs or special events.
10. Retail or Customer Service Roles
Working in retail or customer service may not seem directly related to education, but it’s still valuable. You’ll help customers, manage busy situations, and learn how to communicate effectively.
What makes it great?
Teaching involves patience, problem-solving, and handling unexpected challenges. Retail and customer service roles help you develop these skills in a fast-paced environment.
Skills you’ll gain:
- Communication and people skills
- Conflict resolution
- Handling high-pressure situations
How to get started
Many stores and businesses hire summer staff to cover busy seasons. Apply early to secure a role with flexible hours.
The best summer jobs don’t just pay the bills; they help you build skills for your future classroom. Choose a role that fits your strengths and interests, and use your summer to grow as both a student and an educator.
What Do You Need to Apply for a Summer Job?
Getting ready to apply for a summer job is simple when you know what you need. Here’s a quick guide to help you stay organized.
1. A Strong Resume
Even if you don’t have much work experience, a well-prepared resume can make a big impression. Focus on skills like communication, leadership, and time management. Include volunteer work, tutoring, babysitting, or any roles where you’ve worked with kids or handled responsibilities. If you need help creating a polished CV, tools like resume builders can make this step quick and easy.
2. A Short Cover Letter
A cover letter lets employers see why you’re the right fit. Keep it simple and to the point. Mention why you’re excited about the role and how your skills match what they’re looking for. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job.
3. References
Employers may ask for references who can confirm your skills and character. These could be professors, teachers, or anyone you’ve volunteered or worked for. Always ask them first before sharing their contact details.
4. Certifications (If Needed)
Some jobs, like lifeguarding or childcare, require certifications like CPR or first aid. Check the job posting to see if you need any special training.
5. Your Availability
Summer employers want to know when you’re free to work. Be ready to share your schedule, including any vacations or other commitments.
With these key things prepared, you’ll be ready to apply quickly and confidently for the best summer jobs. It shows employers that you’re responsible, organized, and excited to get started.
Final Thoughts
Summer jobs are more than just a way to make money; they’re a chance to learn, grow, and build skills you’ll use as a future teacher. The best part? You get to work with kids, plan activities, and gain real experience.
From tutoring to summer camps to helping out in daycares, there’s a job that fits your strengths and interests. Every role on this list gives you something valuable to take back to your studies; and eventually, your own classroom.
So, pick a job that excites you, apply early, and use your summer to grow as a student and future educator. You’ll be glad you did.
