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Job outlook for earth science teachers in the United States
Earth science teacher job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected earth science teacher job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.
About 48,700 new jobs for earth science teachers are projected over the next decade.
Earth science teacher salaries have increased 8% for earth science teachers in the last 5 years.
There are over 249,408 earth science teachers currently employed in the United States.
There are 68,768 active earth science teacher job openings in the US.
The average earth science teacher salary is $65,102.
Are earth science teacher jobs in demand?
Earth Science Teacher job and salary trends over time
Earth Science Teacher jobs over time
Earth Science Teacher job growth rate over time
Year  | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 249,408 | 0.07% |
| 2020 | 245,981 | 0.07% |
| 2019 | 256,456 | 0.08% |
| 2018 | 257,035 | 0.08% |
| 2017 | 255,111 | 0.08% |
Average earth science teacher salary over time
Earth Science Teacher salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $65,102 | $31.30 | +2.0% |
| 2024 | $63,849 | $30.70 | +2.2% |
| 2023 | $62,462 | $30.03 | +1.9% |
| 2022 | $61,271 | $29.46 | +2.0% |
| 2021 | $60,090 | $28.89 | +1.5% |
Earth Science Teacher jobs by state
Most common states for earth science teachers
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 215 | 31% |
| 2 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 333 | 25% |
| 3 | Vermont | 623,657 | 148 | 24% |
| 4 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 237 | 23% |
| 5 | Delaware | 961,939 | 212 | 22% |
| 6 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 611 | 20% |
| 7 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,108 | 18% |
| 8 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 107 | 18% |
| 9 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 346 | 17% |
| 10 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,440 | 16% |
| 11 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,078 | 16% |
| 12 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 914 | 16% |
| 13 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 564 | 16% |
| 14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 310 | 16% |
| 15 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,914 | 15% |
| 16 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 849 | 15% |
| 17 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 250 | 15% |
| 18 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 154 | 15% |
| 19 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 983 | 14% |
| 20 | Alaska | 739,795 | 93 | 13% |
Earth Science Teacher job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of earth science teacher experts
University of New England
Whitworth University
New Mexico State University
Bucknell University
University of Indianapolis
University of New Orleans
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
Hartwick College
University of Central Arkansas
Davidson College
Emory University
Missouri State University
Seattle Pacific University
California State University - Fresno
What general advice would you give to an Earth Science Teacher?
Sumudu Lewis: Many soft skills are important to teachers. They include but are not limited to being effective communicators and demonstrating compassion, empathy, patience, and resilience. Leadership skills are also important, as are conflict resolution, time management, and collaborative skills. The most important hard skills include content knowledge, the ability to unpack the state standards to develop units of work, plan well-structured lessons with observable and measurable learning objectives, create and use formative and summative assessments to measure students' learning, analyze data from assessments and make adjustments to practice, integrate technology, have a repertoire of teaching strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners.
What Earth Science Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Catherine Nelson: Our kids need good teachers now more than ever. There is a teacher shortage, and we need people who can help make a difference in children's lives and the future.
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Catherine Nelson: People love the fact that they make a difference. They can be an inspiration and change the way students view their world; they can help someone successfully navigate conflicts and roadblocks they deal with in their lives; they can encourage someone to go to college who thought they never could; and they might even convince someone to become a teacher, too, because they were that important in that student's life. Teachers are often frustrated because they want to do more for their students. Limited funding and resources are often barriers to high quality educational tools and equipment. It can also be emotionally taxing for a teacher if a student is experiencing trauma out of their control.
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Peter Badalament: Since most districts have a grid in the contract that tells you how much you'll make, it's critical that you advocate for yourself to get credit for other education-based work. Pick club advising or coaching stipend.
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Megan Griffin PhD, BCBA-D: My advice would be that this is a marathon, not a sprint. New professionals coming into Education are so needed--bringing their energy and creative ideas for innovation. We need you! Find ways to ensure that you take care of yourself so that you can continue in the field for years to come. It's also important to find both a mentor and a support system within your peer group. A mentor who is more experienced can help you navigate school politics and procedures, as well as offer ideas and resources when you need them. Your support system can provide you with encouragement and understanding from those who are in a similar place in their careers.
Leanna Lucero Ph.D.
Associate Professor; Director of Elementary Education; Associate Director of School of Teacher Preparation, Administration, and Leadership (TPAL)New Mexico State University
Curriculum And Instruction
What Earth Science Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Leanna Lucero Ph.D.: It is important to remember why you went into the field of Education and Curriculum and Instruction. Find joy in the uncertainty and unpredictability because those nuances keep us energized and fresh. An asset-based approach is essential to have when entering the field of Education and Curriculum and Instruction.
What Earth Science Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Janet VanLone Ph.D.: AI has the potential to be very impactful on K-12 education. There will certainly be challenges that we need to address—cheating, for example. However, I believe that AI can also be very helpful. How can we find ways to utilize AI to complete time-consuming tasks so that we can spend more time with our students? Teachers need to be equipped with advocacy skills. As experts in curriculum and instruction, and with first-hand knowledge of all that is needed for schools and students to be successful, having a voice in policymaking is crucial.
What Earth Science Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Tracy Johnson: Be as marketable as possible. The more grades, subject areas, etc. that you are licensed to teach, the better off you are. At a time when teachers are in high demand, you can afford to apply to many different places and choose the one that is right for you, not only financially but also philosophically as well.
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Tracy Johnson: Be open to new experiences. You may think you really want to teach 5th grade math, but have an opportunity to apply for a 3rd grade position. Give it a chance. You may find out that you love 3rd grade! Also, remember that teaching is a profession in which you are continually learning. The best teachers are the ones who are always ready to add to their professional knowledge and expertise. When you can, take advantage of continuing professional development opportunities.
What general advice would you give to an Earth Science Teacher?
David Podgorski Ph.D.: Team building, wet chemistry, and time management are all critical skills. In addition, technology is the future in every sector. Every student should learn as much as they can about emerging technologies like computer programing, AI, etc. The jobs of the future will rely on those that create/operate technology.
What Earth Science Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Vicki Collet: In addition to pay increases for experience, additional education helps you climb the salary ladder. Be intentional so that your ongoing education counts not just for license renewal, but also for an additional endorsement or degree.
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Ross Bussell PhD: Public schools pay a standard salary. So starting a teaching career, the primary method for maximizing salary potential would be to look for jobs in different school districts. That initial salary isn't negotiable, so consider things like the drive. I've seen young teachers take a job 20 miles from home that pays $2k more than a closer school district. But with gas and the amount of time away from home, that $2k is arguably not worth it. I tell my graduates to go to grad school as soon as possible. In the state of New York, new teachers are required to obtain a master's degree within five years in order to gain tenure, and I believe that getting that advanced degree out of the way as soon as possible is extremely important. Most school districts increase pay for teachers as they become more educated, especially when they finish a master's degree (referred to as salary range). Achieving National Board certification is another way that teachers can maximize salary. Many school districts offer a salary increase for National Board certified teachers. It's not uncommon now for late career teachers to make six figures per year. Like any job, you start at the bottom and begin working your way up. The pay, along with the great benefits in public education, make teaching an attractive career path.
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Wayne Journell: Teaching is a difficult profession to advance in with respect to salary. Most districts have a set salary schedule that is based on years of service (and most private schools pay less than public schools). That said, some states and districts prioritize teachers more than others, so if one is geographically open, I would encourage them to seek out states and districts that pay teachers well (keeping in mind discrepancies in cost of living).
What Earth Science Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Raquel Muñiz: The ability to adapt quickly to a changing environment (for example, being able to respond to large scale crises similar to COVID), knowing how to teach our students to use AI in a meaningful and ethical way, being able to speak to a multitude of audiences (e.g., families, local advocacy groups, etc.), the ability to create policies and practices that advance the well-being and thriving of students in a sociopolitically hostile environment (e.g., right-wing movement).
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Raquel Muñiz: Have a wide-ranging knowledge of different sectors affecting education, including policy issues.
Christopher Rivera PhD
ProfessorWhat will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Christopher Rivera PhD: Soft skills will never grow old. Understanding how technology can enrich the classroom environment (e.g., artificial intelligence) will always be beneficial. I also think that longevity, oddly enough, is also of value. It may not be looked at as a skill, but administrators want to invest in teachers that are going to stay in the profession. The profession needs educators and administrators will do what they can to keep quality educators in the classroom.
Horacio Ferriz Ph.D.
Professor of Applied Geology and HydrogeologyWhat general advice would you give to an Earth Science Teacher?
Horacio Ferriz Ph.D.: We have a critical lack of good teachers in the STEM disciplines, so pursuing this path will practically guarantee you a teaching position anywhere you care to live. We also need good journalism in the STEM disciplines, because there is so much misinformation out there.
What Earth Science Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Horacio Ferriz Ph.D.: Hopefully you have it real clear in your mind that you want to pursue a career in Science Education, at the Elementary or Middle School level. If you have your sights on becoming a High School teacher you would be much better off pursuing a traditional major in Geology, Physics, Chemistry, or Biology. Physical Science would also be a good platform to pursue a career as a Science Journalist.
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Horacio Ferriz Ph.D.: Take some of your basic requirements for a Teaching Credential in your junior and senior years at college (Adolescent Psychology, Foundations of Secondary Education), and make sure to log some hours helping a local STEM teacher in the classroom.
Dr. Nina Roofe Ph.D.
Associate Professor & ChairUniversity of Central Arkansas
Department of Nutrition & Family Sciences
What soft skills should all Earth Science Teachers possess?
Dr. Nina Roofe Ph.D.: Collegiality is the most important soft skill an educator can possess. This is seen in how educators interact with each other and conduct themselves in their schools. Participating in peer teaching consultations objectively and willingly sharing ideas to support new educators shows your dedication to the teaching profession and commitment to mentoring new professionals. Demonstrating flexibility with scheduling and room assignments, sharing materials and space, assisting colleagues, and team teaching when appropriate are examples of collegiality in action. Attending meetings and participating positively and professionally communicates respect for others and the value you place on your peers and supervisor. Leadership skills are essential for navigating parent-teacher conferences and earning the respect of parents. Demonstrating leadership also demonstrates to administration your FCS skills in conflict resolution and financial management. Good communication skills are critical for effective teaching. This relates to our ability to deliver the lesson's content and provide feedback to our students. Teamwork and collaborative problem solving are essential to a functional campus. With collaboration and respectful dialogue, a school can be innovative in resolving challenges. Social and emotional intelligence ensures safety for students and colleagues, promotes a positive learning environment, and provides the foundation for a growth mindset. Finally, cultural awareness is a critical soft skill all educators must achieve. We are required to understand our students to relate to them and effectively educate them across cultures and demographics.
What skills will help Earth Science Teachers earn the most?
Cynthia Lewis Ph.D.: I would say not so many skills as demonstrated experience and having testimonials from students, the tutor has helped successfully.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Earth Science Teachers?
Anita Corbett Ph.D.: Yes--we all agree that there will be a back log of eligible applicants due to hiring freezes and lack of ability to gain relevant experience due to limited access to research experiences during the pandemic.
What's a day at work look like for an Earth Science Teacher?
Anita Corbett Ph.D.: It depends on what job they have- also are we talking graduates from undergraduate education or from graduate training?
What will help Earth Science Teachers increase their earning potential?
Anita Corbett Ph.D.: They should appropriately market their skills--and seek additional training to enhance their core skills--certificates that demonstrate this additional training has been obtained can be valuable.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Earth Science Teacher job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Ximena Uribe-Zarain: Even though the pandemic has had an enormous impact on the social, economic, and emotional fabric of our society, jobs in our field have not been greatly affected by it. Graduates from the field of educational assessment, program evaluation, and research in education will find plenty of opportunities even in harsh times like these. The trends in the job market continue to be in industry in the area of psychometrics, program evaluation firms, and higher education.
What the pandemic has changed is the way we conduct business. The pandemic has made more evident and even widened systemic inequalities. As researchers, we need to pay close attention to our own cultural responsiveness and be mindful of the disparities in terms of health, racial justice, and technological access. We need to be intentional in our designs, analyses, and the dissemination of results; ultimately thinking on the way our work contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society.
Christopher Hanson
Assistant Professor of Music, Director of Music Education and Orchestral ActivitiesSeattle Pacific University
Music Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Earth Science Teacher job market given the pandemic?
Christopher Hanson: I think we will see an amplified debate on school choice and school funding, which will directly affect the hiring and sustainability of school administrators, leaders, and teachers. The pandemic has exposed already obvious inequities to school access and the quality of education in different arenas, e.g., homeschool, charter school, private school, public school, etc. Students and schools in more affluent communities have the infrastructure (or the means to establish the infrastructure) to support online learning and have arguably not experienced any real setbacks in the progress of their learning (specifically in terms of content, whereas I believe everyone has been affected in terms of social and emotional learning).
Many private schools have offered in-person or hybrid instruction before the states have recommended since they are not dependent on tax dollars and not required to adhere to the same guidelines as the public and some charter schools that depend on government funding. With all of this, I believe we will see a somewhat superficial, and what I believe is misguided, shift to technology. This is reactionary rather than responsive. Many districts have already begun to hire staff, faculty, and administration that are more comfortable or experienced with Title IV funding and programming and the use of technology in teaching and learning (in school and at home).
"One-to-one" initiatives have been pushed to the top of budgetary requirements and instructional expectations and overshadowed other needs. This is not to say that technology isn't important, particularly in the extraordinary time we are living through. However, if we do not build and redesign all of our systems, conflating only one aspect of education will create a severe imbalance and perpetuate problems of equity, access, retention, and sustainability.
What general advice would you give to an Earth Science Teacher?
Christopher Hanson: Keep asking questions and look for opportunities to engage in teaching and learning wherever you can. Connect with peers and future colleagues. Do not just wait. Now is the time to create and sustain dialog on educational change. Although there are endless numbers of variables to how, when, what, and with whom we learn, our genuine curiosity and sincere desire to engage others in the educative process is our greatest hope to see education in a better place than it was before the pandemic.
We must heed the call of innovation and encourage a transition from our current state of triage and survival. You, as a recent graduate, are the future of what education will be. Ask yourself, what will the world look like that you will help create? Is this a world that you and others can learn in? What more can you do to secure the possibilities and promise of education for all? These are the questions that will fuel change and secure growth through the inevitable vicissitudes of education.
Cheryl McDonald
Faculty & Coordinator, Education Specialist and Dual Credential programsCalifornia State University - Fresno
Literacy, Early, Bilingual and Special Education Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Earth Science Teacher job market given the pandemic?
Cheryl McDonald: One of biggest trends in the job market, pandemic or not, is in education. There is real shortage of qualified educators, service providers and educational leaders, despite the incentives, stipends, or bonus monies that districts and universities use to attract candidates to the field. There is a shortage of qualified credentialed teachers in many teaching disciplines across most of the United States. The most severe shortages are in special education, mathematics, science, bilingual/dual immersion, and early childhood education. There is also a need for qualified school administrators, school psychologists, school social workers, school nurses, and school counselors.
All of these areas require specialized knowledge and specialized certification, in addition to a passion and dedication for the discipline. In California, for example, earning a teaching credential requires a Bachelor's degree, fingerprint clearance from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, completion of the U.S. Constitution, basics skills, subject matter and literacy instruction requirements, typically through costly and rigorous tests, current certification in CPR for infants, children and adults, and completion of a teacher preparation program in the area of the credential. In special education, a candidate would need to complete a teacher preparation program in a specialty area: mild/moderate disabilities, moderate/severe disabilities, physical, visual, or health impairments, deaf and hard of hearing, or speech and language development.
Each day spent with students is unique and exciting. Teachers, service providers and leaders not only need to be qualified, they also need to be compassionate, collaborative, adaptable, flexible, and effective, especially when the unexpected arises. Virtual/online teaching skills are a plus. Teachers and educational leaders also need to be prepared to work with culturally- and linguistically-diverse student and family populations, with students who are gifted and talented, and students experiencing risk factors such as homelessness, poverty, drug or alcohol dependency, frequent absences or bullying.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Earth Science Teachers to find work opportunities?
Cheryl McDonald: After graduation, candidates should begin their search for available education positions, whether teaching or leadership in universities or preschool-12 schools, in populous states like California, Texas and New York or in rural and suburban high-poverty areas. There the needs are greatest and positions are more likely to be available and advertised. I would also ask friends, colleagues and professionals I knew to keep an eye open for available positions. You never know when an unexpected lead will pop up.