Secondary science teachers cover topics in biology, chemistry, physics, or general science — usually in middle or high school — through lectures, labs, and inquiry work.
Secondary Science Teacher pay typically runs $58K–$83K at this level, and jobs in this field are projected to shrink 2% through 2034.
A typical day cycles through multiple class periods with mixed lecture, lab work, and assessment. Lab setup and safety oversight add real time outside teaching, and most science teachers describe the actual workday as substantially longer than their teaching schedule.
Collaboration involves other science teachers, lab staff, and parents. What's harder than expected is the safety dimension of lab work — managing students with chemicals or equipment requires constant attention, and a single careless moment can have real consequences for students and for the teacher's career.
Those who thrive tend to be knowledgeable, curious, and good at making complex topics accessible. If you find satisfaction in students engaging with science, the role often feels meaningful. Teachers who care more about the content than the kids often find the day-to-day reality of mixed-ability classrooms frustrating — secondary science rewards holding both content depth and patience with adolescent learners.
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Roles like this one sit within a broader occupational category. The numbers below reflect that full landscape — helpful for context, but your specific experience will depend on level, specialty, and where you work.
Secondary science teachers cover topics in biology, chemistry, physics, or general science — usually in middle or high school — through lectures, labs, and inquiry work.
Median pay for a Secondary Science Teacher is about $65K nationally, with the field ranging roughly from $47K to $105K depending on experience, employer, and metro (BLS).
Core skills for this role include Instructing, Active Listening, Learning Strategies, Speaking, and Reading Comprehension.
Most people in this role hold a bachelor's degree.
Employment in this field is projected to decline about 1.6% through 2034, with roughly 1.1 million people working in it today (BLS).
Closely related roles include Physical Fitness Teacher, Health and PE Teacher (Health and Physical Education Teacher), and Organ Teacher.
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