For many teachers, summer break provides a well-deserved opportunity to recharge, travel, or spend time with family. However, for those looking to supplement their income or gain experience in new fields, summer can also be an ideal time to explore temporary job opportunities. Fortunately, educators possess a wide range of transferable skills—such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving—that make them excellent candidates for seasonal work.
If you’re considering a summer job, location can play a role in what opportunities are available. Some states offer better pay and working conditions for teachers, which might influence your decision to take on additional work or even relocate. If you’re curious, this ranking of the best states for teachers can provide useful insights into factors like salary, job demand, and cost of living.
Below, we explore some of the best summer job options for teachers, backed by research on their financial and professional benefits.
1. Tutoring and Test Prep
One of the most natural summer jobs for teachers is tutoring. With schools out of session, many students and parents seek extra academic support to prepare for the next school year or standardized tests. The online tutoring market is expected to see significant growth by 2030, driven by increased demand for personalized education.
Online platforms like Wyzant, VIPKid, and Chegg Tutors allow educators to work from home and set their own schedules, while local in-person tutoring can provide strong hourly wages, especially for high-demand subjects like math, science, and test prep.
2. Summer School Teaching
For those who enjoy the classroom setting, summer school teaching can be a great way to earn additional income while maintaining a connection to education. Many districts offer summer programs to help students catch up or get ahead, and teachers are often compensated at a higher hourly rate than during the regular school year.
Research from the National Summer Learning Association highlights that students who participate in summer learning programs show measurable academic gains, particularly in reading and math. Teachers who take on summer school roles not only earn extra income but also contribute to closing the achievement gap for students in need.
3. Freelance Writing or Curriculum Development
Many teachers have strong writing and content development skills, making freelance writing a viable summer job option. Educational publishers, curriculum development companies, and ed-tech startups often seek teachers to create lesson plans, assessments, and digital learning materials.
Additionally, with the increasing demand for high-quality online education, there are plenty of opportunities for teachers to contribute their expertise by developing instructional materials. Summer can be a great time to explore curriculum writing or instructional design as a potential long-term career pivot, offering both creative flexibility and professional growth.
4. Camp Counselor or Outdoor Education Instructor
For teachers who enjoy working with children in a non-classroom setting, becoming a camp counselor or outdoor education instructor can be a rewarding summer job. Many summer camps seek educators to lead activities, teach specialized skills (like STEM, music, or arts and crafts), or oversee team-building exercises.
A study from the American Camp Association found that camp experiences enhance children’s social skills, resilience, and independence—skills that teachers are uniquely positioned to foster. Additionally, outdoor education roles at nature centers or environmental programs can provide a refreshing change of pace from traditional teaching.
5. Tour Guide or Museum Educator
Teachers who have a passion for history, science, or the arts may find summer work as a tour guide or museum educator particularly engaging. Museums, historic sites, and national parks often hire seasonal educators to lead tours, give presentations, and design interactive experiences for visitors.
According to the Institute of Museum and Library Services, museums play a crucial role in lifelong learning, making them an excellent fit for educators looking to share their knowledge outside of the traditional classroom.
6. Gig Economy and Side Hustles
For teachers who prefer flexible, self-directed work, the gig economy offers numerous options. Rideshare driving (Uber, Lyft), pet sitting (Rover, Wag), and selling handmade crafts (Etsy) are all popular choices that allow educators to set their own hours and work at their own pace.
A Pew Research Center report found that nearly 16% of U.S. adults have earned money from gig work in the past year, with many citing flexibility as the key benefit. For teachers who want to earn extra income without committing to a structured summer job, gig work can be a viable option.
Making the Most of Summer Work
When choosing a summer job, it’s important for teachers to consider their long-term goals. Some may prioritize maximizing income, while others might seek roles that build skills for a future career transition. Regardless of the motivation, summer jobs can provide financial stability, professional growth, and even a renewed passion for education.
Ultimately, summer is a time of opportunity—whether that means exploring a new career path, developing a side hustle, or simply enjoying a change of pace. With careful planning, teachers can find summer jobs that align with their skills, interests, and financial needs while still allowing for well-earned rest and relaxation.
