How much does a Teacher Assistant make?

The average salary for a Teacher Assistant is $33,220 per year in United States. Salaries estimates are based on 8204 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by a Teacher Assistant employees in United States.

The highest salary for a Teacher Assistant in United States is $38,326 per year.

The lowest salary for a Teacher Assistant in United States is $28,881 per year.

If you are thinking of becoming a Teacher Assistant or planning the next step in your career, find details about the role, the career path and salary trajectory of a Teacher Assistant.

The role of teacher assistant provides practical teaching practice to graduate students, allowing candidates with some coursework to gain experience before entering the full-time job market. While starting pay is low, the role includes great flexibility. Occasionally, teacher assistants earn benefits such as reduced tuition or in-state tuition. Teacher assistants are typically paid per course, so they can increase their pay by taking on new courses. Additionally, teacher assistants for advanced or graduate courses are often paid more than teacher assistants for entry-level undergraduate courses.

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With summers off, paid holidays and seasonal breaks, and the potential to earn an extra $1,239.42 annually, the salary of an assistant teacher may qualify as satisfactory. According to professionals, about 62% of assistant teachers feel good about what they earn.

Over time, your salary as an assistant teacher will increase as you gain more experience and master new skills. In general, however, it'll land somewhere between $25,482.92 and $43,569.15, with an average salary of $31,980.95. If you want to progress and become a teacher, your earnings may increase. Teachers earn a higher average salary when compared to their assistants.

As an assistant teacher, your potential to make more money is significant. First, gain experience in the role through internships and volunteer work. Many charity organizations, historic sites, and museums offer assistant teaching opportunities that stand out on a resume while expanding your skill set. Earning a bachelor's degree goes a long way in boosting your earning potential, so choose one in a related field, such as education, elementary education, secondary education, or a specific school subject. Work as a student teacher to earn your teaching credential, and you'll have your choice of high-paying positions at the next level of your career — teaching itself.

While negotiating a higher salary for an assistant teacher role can be difficult, it's far from impossible. The key is to ask for more when you're first hired. If you've just received an offer, emphasize what you bring to the table and why you deserve a salary that's 5 to 10% higher. When you're a new hire with multiple internships and volunteer opportunities under your belt, for example, you come to the role with significantly more experience than the average entry-level professional and have more negotiating power. If you're in an established position, focus on your experience level compared to fellow professionals, and factor in perks and benefits during the process.