Careers in Early Childhood Education

Early childhood education offers meaningful career opportunities with flexible schedules, multiple entry points, and clear pathways for advancement. Whether you are exploring your first role or looking to grow within the field, the resources below can help you find employment, build skills, and access education and financial support.

Find a Job

Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!) 

CAMW! connects job seekers with employers across mid-Michigan and provides tools to support career growth. Through its partnership with Pure Michigan Talent Connect, job seekers can search open positions by location, keyword, and posting date, and explore upcoming hiring events. CAMW! Also facilities Early Care and Education Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

Great Start to Quality Early Childhood Job Board 

Great Start to Quality (GSQ) manages a statewide job board connecting current and aspiring child care professionals with employment opportunities. Some positions may also be listed through CAMW! Resources.

Education & Financial Support

Michigan Reconnect

Michigan Reconnect provides tuition-free community college for Michiganders age 21 and older who have not yet earned a degree. Participants can receive support completing the FAFSA and exploring eligible programs. Child care employers can promote this opportunity to staff seeking to advance their education. 

T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Scholarship

Administered by the Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children (MIAEYC), the T.E.A.C.H. scholarship supports child care professionals pursuing education while working. Scholarship options include CDA credentials, degree programs, licensing, and renewal coursework, with the goal of improving workforce retention and compensation. 

Michigan Achievement Scholarship

Developed in partnership with MiLEAP and MI Student Aid, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship helps Michigan high school graduates access financial support for continuing education. Eligibility requires FAFSA completion, demonstrated financial need, and enrollment at an eligible institution. Career training opportunities related to early childhood education may also be available. 

Additional Scholarships & Grants

MIAEYC maintains a current list of scholarships, grants, and awards available to early childhood professionals seeking to further their education or credentials.