What does a Nanny do?

A nanny is responsible for providing care for an individual or multiple children, toddlers or infants within a household. Some nannies are also responsible for arranging playdates, reading, bathing, children's laundry, and feeding. A nanny can either be live-in, where they stay and live with the family during the weekdays or live-out. Some nannies also perform household chores. Generally, nannies are employed by families or find opportunities through varying nanny agencies.

A high school diploma or equivalent along with 3 years Child Care experience, including infant care, is required for nanny positions. Valid and current First Aid and CPR certifications are also required. Successful nannies are deeply compassionate, energetic and possess excellent communication skills.

What responsibilities are common for Nanny jobs?
  • Create a nurturing and stimulating environment
  • Perform household chores such as sweeping, doing dishes and children's laundry
  • Meet the children's social, emotional and physical needs
  • Ensure a clean and tidy home environment at all times
  • Pick up children from school on time
  • Entertain children, keeping them warm, happy and clean at all times
  • Discipline children, when necessary and in accordance with parents principles
  • Keep kitchen clean after meal preparation
What are the typical qualifications for Nanny jobs?
  • 4+ years' Child Care experience
  • Must provide at least three valid references
  • First Aid and CPR certifications required
  • Proficient knowledge of housekeeping and meal preparation
  • Must have a clean driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Outstanding verbal communication skills
  • Great organizational and multitasking abilities
  • Instill good manners and a sense of responsibility
  • Take the children on age-appropriate outings
Education--
Work/Life Balance
3.9 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.5 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

How much does a Nanny make?

Confident
$34,739 /yr
Total Pay
$32,863
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$1,876
 /yr

Additional Pay

$34,739

 / yr
$24K$50K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Nanny Career Path

Learn how to become a Nanny, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Nanny
$34,739/yr
Nanny III
$49,955/yr
Nanny IV
$48,745/yr
Nanny

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
17%
2 - 4
15%
5 - 7
2%
8+
66%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Nanny Insights

Read what Nanny professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
SittercitySittercity
Nanny
Apr 10, 2022

“Great way to find families needing care and ways to find jobs that fit your schedule”

Private Practice
Nanny
May 16, 2022

“Working as a nanny is a great way to enjoy your day while also making money.”

MorrisonsMorrisons
Night Assistant
May 17, 2022

“High expectations from 3 rubbish store managers that don't have a clue about the job.”

JovieJovie
Nanny/Sitter
Apr 12, 2022

“No PTO so be prepared to use your sick time especially if you work part time..”

Au Pair in AmericaAu Pair in America
Au Pair
Oct 4, 2020

“I met nice host family and enjoyed time with them.”

Twinkle Toes Nanny AgencyTwinkle Toes Nanny Agency
Nanny
May 24, 2022

“The families who I bonded well with were awesome and the pay was great.”

Select SittersSelect Sitters
Nanny
Jan 30, 2023

“I love watching children and it was really fun to get to watch kids all day.”

KellyKelly
Nanny/Sitter
Mar 23, 2021

“Goood goood good good Good”

See More

Nanny Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Nanny

When working as a Nanny, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Excellent Communication, Computer Literacy, English Language, Positive Attitude, and CPR.

The most similar professions to Nanny are:
  • Housekeeper
  • Laborer
  • Janitor
  • Warehouse Worker

Related Careers

Housekeeper
$33,474
38% skills overlap
Laborer
$39,648
13% skills overlap
Janitor
$34,356
38% skills overlap
Warehouse Worker
$36,645
13% skills overlap

Nanny Jobs