How To Find Education Contract Jobs That Fit
When I first started looking for flexible work beyond the classroom, I would take on nearly any freelance jobs for teachers that I could do from home. There weren’t any education contract jobs I wouldn’t try!
Virtual coaching? Sure! Education consulting? Why not?! Curriculum development? Yes, please! As I began to take on more and more roles as an independent educational contractor, I realized that I enjoyed some jobs more than others.
And that’s as it should be— no one is meant to do everything. We all have unique interests and skills that make us good fits for different roles and careers.
Whether you’re looking for a contract job to do on the side while working as a classroom teacher or have your heart set on working virtually, it’s important to get clear on what types of roles you’re looking for.
Use these tips to find jobs that fit as an independent educational contractor.
Tops Tips to Find Education Contract Jobs
1. Consider All Aspects of The Work
When looking for non-teaching jobs in education, you’ve likely thought about the type of work you’d like to do. But in addition to the content, consider the ways in which you’ll be working.
Would you prefer to work collaboratively or own your own? Are you looking to have a lot of guidance or more independence? Whether you’re looking for a role to build your experience or something you can do in the evenings, it’s important to get clear on your priorities.
As you consider education contract jobs, it’s okay to take on jobs that align with different priorities. For example, you might take on a curriculum development job to gain experience and a consulting job because of the high pay. There are so many freelance jobs for teachers out there, be sure to explore the ones that will work best for the lifestyle you want.
2. Tune into Your Intuition
As you interact with the organizations, school districts, or companies you apply to work with, think about how those interactions make you feel. In an interview, notice if you automatically get along with someone or if the conversation feels awkward. By tuning into how things feel, you can get clues into whether an opportunity would be a good fit.
Remember that not every educational independent contractor role will be a good fit! If presented with a job opportunity that you’re not sure you should take, tune into your intuition. Picture yourself in the role and reflect on whether you think you would truly enjoy it.
3. Know Your Value
Looking back on taking countless contract jobs after leaving the classroom, I now realize that I was coming from a place of scarcity. I wasn’t sure how many flexible jobs in education were out there or how many I could land, so I felt pressured to take any job that came my way.
Now I realize that this wasn’t the best move. Because really, there are so many opportunities for non-teaching jobs in education!
After building my confidence, I’ve been able to look at potential education contract jobs through a different lens. Instead of just thinking that people are interviewing me, I now realize that I’m interviewing them too. Looking at job listings can feel overwhelming, but always try to focus on the valuable skills you bring to the table (and consider what the job will bring to your life).
Finding the Right Education Contract Jobs for You
If you’re ready to find non-teaching jobs in education but aren’t sure where to start, there are plenty of ways to explore your options.
Want more support to find contract jobs that make the most of your unique skills? Join the Beyond the Classroom course, where we walk you through exactly how to find and land flexible jobs in education using your teaching experience.
Whether you want to find freelance jobs for teachers, just want to start a side hustle or have dreams of starting your own education business, there are so many possibilities for your career beyond teaching.
Have questions? Contact me anytime to learn more about how to be an educator forever!