There are many rewarding jobs in the field of education. In general, most positions in this field will require a bachelor’s degree or higher, though some require certification in specialised fields.
If you’re passionate about nurturing young minds in Malaysia, or playing a role in developing the educational landscape, here are eight of the best-paying jobs you could apply for.
1. School principal
Average salary: RM92,000. Required education: Master’s in education administration
If you have worked in education for a few years and are ready for the next step, becoming a school principal may be right for you. Principals oversee the operations of a school, with tasks that include defining curriculums, overseeing teaching staff, and providing general guidance for the institution.
To work as a principal, you should build on your education major with a master’s degree in education leadership or administration.
The job outlook is similar to other careers in education, with an expected growth of 8% from this year until 2024. If you work your way to the top 10%, you’ll enjoy a salary of over RM135,000 per annum.
2. Training and development manager
Average salary: RM68,000. Required education: HR certificate or degree in HR
For a high-paying job that lets you use your education and teaching experience without necessarily carrying out traditional school tasks, consider a career in training and development.
This requires someone who can staff, plan, and coordinate programmes that enhance knowledge in teachers. Although your education major will help, you’ll likely need further training in human resources or management, and you might need a master’s degree.
The job outlook is excellent with an expected rise of 10% from 2022 to 2024, and the top 10% of those in this profession can make over RM185,000.
3. Art, drama or music teacher
Average salary: RM68,000. Required education: Bachelor’s and/or teaching certification
If you have a passion for the arts and want to spread this joy to young students, consider a career teaching art, drama, or music. This includes everything from painting and design to performance and crafts.
Music teachers may work with bands, orchestras, choirs, and more, while drama teachers can cover everything from set design and acting to musical singing.
If you are in the top 10% of this field, you can expect to make an annual salary over RM100,000.
4. Instructional coordinator
Average salary: RM62,000. Required education: Master’s in curriculum and instruction
Another career beyond the scope of typical educational jobs, instructional coordinators oversee school curriculums and teaching standards, working to create the most effective teaching system possible.
Specific tasks may include developing instruction material or coordinating with teachers and principals. This career typically requires a master’s degree and teaching experience.
Working in this field, the top 10% can earn more than RM100,000 per annum. Job growth is expected to be at 10% until 2024 because of the high emphasis on student performance.
5. Human resources specialist
Average salary: RM59,000. Required education: HR degree
While it may not be considered a traditional educational job, one of the main duties of a HR specialist is to develop skills among employees and implement training. This makes it a great fit for people who have degrees and experience in education.
To be a HR specialist, you may need to leave the teaching field and work as an HR assistant for a year or two. Customer service and other business positions can also be beneficial.
This career is expected to have 7% job growth, which is right alongside the national average, with the top 10% enjoying a salary above RM101,000.
6. Primary school teacher
Average salary: RM55,000. Required education: Bachelor’s in education
Anyone who enjoys working with young children will love being a primary school teacher. They help educate children by planning and implementing courses, working directly with students, teaching lessons, communicating with parents, and performing many other tasks.
Teachers of younger students enjoy a strong salary, with the top 10% earning over RM88,000. The job outlook stands at 8%, similar to other educational jobs.
7. School and careers counsellor
Average salary: RM54,000. Required education: Master’s in school counselling
This career calls for those who can develop students’ academic and social skills, helping them succeed in future schooling as well as their professional jobs.
Counsellors help students decide which career or academic path they should pursue. This job might require professional certifications and related experience, as well as a master’s degree in school counselling.
The pay and growth for this profession is strong, with the top 10% commanding a salary over RM93,000. The job is expected to grow by 11%, fuelled by the rising need for development guidance and an increase in career centres at private colleges.
8. Childcare centre director
Average salary: RM45,000. Required education: Bachelor’s in education
Children who are too young for kindergarten still need education and guidance. In many cases, this role is taken by preschool and childcare centre directors, who supervise and lead staff, design educational programmes, and oversee daycare activities.
A bachelor’s degree in education will be beneficial for this career, and experience in childhood education can also help.
Those working in one of these jobs can earn over RM82,000 a year if they are in the top 10%. Job growth sits at 11%, largely due to an expected growth in the need for daycare and demand for preschool education.
This article first appeared in jobstore.com, an online job site that specialises in providing jobseekers with the latest job opportunities by matching talented individuals with reputable companies in Malaysia. Find your dream job with over 40,000 job vacancies in Malaysia.