Substitute Teachers, Short-Term
Substitute teachers provide temporary classroom instruction when regular teachers are absent, following established lesson plans and maintaining classroom routines. They work in public and private schools across all grade levels and subject areas, filling short-term positions that typically last from one day to several weeks.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against substitute teachers, short-term and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A substitute teacher's week involves arriving early to review the regular teacher's plans, attendance procedures, and classroom expectations. During the day, they lead lessons, manage student behavior, assign and collect work, and maintain records of what was covered. Afternoons include monitoring independent work or group activities, and the role often requires quick adaptation when lessons need adjustment based on student needs or pacing.
Who this work suits
Holland code SCA. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely thrive in this role if you're naturally organized and comfortable following established systems—the conventional interest that makes structured environments feel right to you. You probably enjoy working directly with people and building quick rapport with students and staff, reflecting social skills that make temporary placements manageable.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold an associate degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $46,950 | $66,920 | $95,330 | 1,420 |
| California | $49,210 | $60,300 | $68,280 | 115,660 |
| Hawaii | $46,220 | $58,530 | $58,720 | 3,990 |
| Oregon | $57,450 | $58,280 | $65,590 | 8,090 |
| Washington | $51,120 | $55,740 | $60,780 | 14,820 |
| Minnesota | $41,770 | $50,390 | $61,340 | 8,660 |
| District of Columbia | $49,790 | $49,790 | $49,790 | 750 |
| West Virginia | $45,580 | $49,020 | $60,140 | 4,840 |
| Maryland | $37,090 | $46,470 | $46,470 | 7,610 |
| Rhode Island | $43,210 | $45,590 | $52,450 | 1,910 |
| Pennsylvania | $35,920 | $44,870 | $47,710 | 22,360 |
| Wisconsin | $37,710 | $43,950 | $50,040 | 8,420 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against substitute teachers, short-term and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-3031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.