Jobs Working with Babies: 6 Career Options for Those That Love Infants

You’ve probably never heard of one of the most remarkable women to have a career working with babies: Dr. Leila Denmark. She was one of the first female pediatricians in the U.S., and As one of the pioneering female pediatricians in the United States, she embarked on her remarkable journey in 1931, shaping the field of pediatrics in Georgia and beyond.

But her story doesn’t end there. In a true testament to her passion and dedication, Dr. Denmark retired at the astonishing age of 101 in 2001, holding the title of the nation’s oldest practicing physician. Throughout an impressive 70-year career, she nurtured generations of families, treating not only the children she first saw but also their grandchildren and even great-grandchildren.

Pediatricians and obstetricians are two careers working with babies that require a lot of education and training. You can become a nanny, work as a baby photographer, help families as a newborn specialist, or calm babies as an infant massage therapist more quickly.

All jobs working with babies require at least some training, although the people who currently do them will tell you these jobs require natural talent and on-the-job experience. Here are six diverse jobs that people who love babies should consider:

Pediatrician

Pediatricians play a crucial role in the healthcare system, specializing in caring for newborns, infants, and children. With approximately 28,500 pediatricians currently practicing in the United States, it is a sought-after medical specialty known for its rewarding nature and competitive compensation.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), pediatricians rank among the top 20 highest-paying professions. In 2018, the median salary for pediatricians was reported to be $170,560. This reflects the significance and demand for their expertise in providing comprehensive medical care to young patients.

Becoming a pediatrician starts with completing a bachelor’s degree and attending medical school. Subsequently, aspiring pediatricians undergo rigorous residency and internship programs to gain the necessary clinical experience and specialized training.

By choosing a career in pediatrics, individuals embark on a path filled with opportunities to impact the health and well-being of children positively. The dedication and commitment required to become a pediatrician are matched by the immense rewards of improving the lives of young patients and their families.

Obstetrician

Obstetricians, commonly known as OB/GYNs, are medical doctors specializing in providing comprehensive healthcare to pregnant women and delivering babies. With approximately 18,500 OB/GYNs currently practicing in the United States, it is an esteemed profession known for its rewarding nature and financial stability.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), OB/GYNs rank as the third-highest-paying occupation in the country. In 2018, the median salary for OB/GYNs exceeded $208,000 per year. It is important to note that doctors in private practice tend to have higher earnings within this field.

Becoming an OB/GYN requires completing a bachelor’s degree and medical school. Subsequently, they undergo an internship and a residency program to gain valuable clinical experience and specialized training in obstetrics and gynecology.

The field of obstetrics and gynecology offers a fulfilling career dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. The combination of medical expertise, compassionate care, and the joy of delivering new life makes it a highly respected and sought-after profession.

Nanny

A nanny plays a crucial role in providing care and support for children within their own family’s home and residence. In addition to attending to the children’s needs, nannies can assist with various household tasks and errands and even take on personal assistant responsibilities.

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that there are no specific educational requirements to become a nanny, certain skills and certifications are highly beneficial. Holding a CPR certification is important to ensure the safety and well-being of the children under their care.

Excellent communication skills are also essential for building strong relationships with children and their parents, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment. Being a nanny is a rewarding profession that allows individuals to impact the lives of children and their families positively. The ability to provide attentive care, engage in meaningful interactions, and assist with various tasks makes it a fulfilling and versatile role within childcare.

Nannies earned an average of $23,240 a year in 2018, according to the BLS. Nannies in high-paying cities can make $17 to $18 an hour and up to $39,000 in the highest-paid “nanny cities,” ZipRecruiter reports.

Baby Photographer

If you’ve seen the adorable, unique photos of Ann Geddes, you know the world’s most recognized baby photographer. Portrait photographers who specialize in babies, baby photographers can use digital or traditional photographic techniques.

Baby photographers usually need a high school diploma to start work and gain more skills on the job and through professional development. The BLS reports that about 132,100 people were photographers in 2018, with a median pay of $34,000.

Newborn Specialist

Newborn care specialists are trained to provide expertise in newborn care, focusing on helping mothers and babies after the baby comes home. They provide training and care for newborns, including staying up at night, feeding, and changing babies while newborn parents sleep.

Newborn care specialists can earn $360 to $800 daily, depending on their background and experience. They can be a neonatal nurse, a doula, a medical assistant, a nanny, or a mother who wants to work with children. Lactation consultants are a specialty in the field. The Newborn Care Specialist Association For Certification (NCAFC) offers specialized training and support.

Infant Massage Therapist

If you are sensitive and good with your hands and love babies, you could have two of the top talents needed for a career in infant massage therapy. Infant massage therapists should complete certified training programs, including training, contact hours, and supervised practicums. The BLS reports that massage therapists earned an average salary of $41,420 in 2018, and the career is expected to grow much faster than the average, with more than 35,000 new massage therapists needed by 2028, including infant massage therapists.

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