Childcare Workers
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Attend to children at schools, businesses, private households, and childcare institutions. Perform a variety of tasks, such as dressing, feeding, bathing, and overseeing play.
Median pay: $34,980/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -2.9% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 160,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Maintain a safe play environment.
• Observe and monitor children's play activities.
• Communicate with children's parents or guardians about daily activities, behaviors, and related issues.
• Support children's emotional and social development, encouraging understanding of others and positive self-concepts.
• Care for children in institutional setting, such as group homes, nursery schools, private businesses, or schools for people with disabilities.
• Sanitize toys and play equipment.
• Dress children and change diapers.
• Keep records on individual children, including daily observations and information about activities, meals served, and medications administered.
What's the median pay for Childcare Workers?
The median pay for Childcare Workers is $34,980 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Childcare Workers?
Employment for Childcare Workers is projected to change -2.9% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Childcare Workers?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Childcare Workers?
About 160,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.