What does a Tutor do?
Tutors generally work at schools and tutoring centers to help students reach learning benchmarks, pass their classes and prepare for tests. They get to know their students including their strengths and weaknesses related to a subject, their personal learning style, their academic goals and expectations from teachers and parents. Tutors often teach by walking a student through their homework, asking questions to guide the student toward the correct answer while also showing the logic behind their approach to solving problems. They may also provide progress reports to the student’s guardians and make recommendations for additional support
Tutor job description intro paragraph
When writing a Tutor job description, start by introducing the job and company to prospective Tutors. Briefly highlight the work environment, what sets your company apart and why the role is important to your company.
For example:
“Company ABC is looking for a patient, highly-driven Tutor skilled in elementary-level math and science to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of elementary school students.
As a Tutor at Company ABC, you can choose your own hours to meet your needs. Remote tutoring sessions are also available. We’re proud to have a 4.5 star rating on Indeed Company Pages and an above average Work Happiness Score from our employees. We value flexibility, empathy and professional development.”
Tutor skills and qualifications
Tutors use a variety of soft skills and specialized academic knowledge to provide the most comprehensive help they can. These skills can include:
- Thorough knowledge of a specific academic subject or expertise in test preparation
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to clearly explain challenging concepts, provide instructions and deliver feedback
- Ability to motivate and encourage students to improve their academic performance using effective goal-setting strategies
- Creativity and flexibility in order to personalize their learning approach for individual students
- Patience and compassion for students as they develop skills and improve their performance
- Previous demonstrated excellence in the academic subject they plan to tutor in or on the test they’re helping students prepare for
- Optional certification from the National Tutoring Association, American Tutoring Association, Association for the Coaching and Tutoring Profession or the College Reading and Learning Association
Tutor salary expectations
Tutors make an average of $21.43 per hour. Pay rate may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.
Tutor education and training requirements
Entry-level Tutors need at least a high school diploma or GED, which can be common for peer tutoring positions. Many Tutor roles require a bachelor’s degree, often in the subject the candidate specializes in, such as math, science, English or communication. Other candidates may have a degree in education. Tutors specializing in English as a second language (ESL) may be required to have completed an ESL training course and earned a certification.
Tutor experience requirements
Entry-level Tutors should have demonstrated expertise in the subject or testing format they plan to assist students with, such as in-progress or completed education. Some Tutors may have a valid teaching license and experience as a Teacher in the classroom. Others may have served as a Substitute Teacher, Teaching Assistant, Paraprofessional, Professor or Instructor. Some technical subjects, such as math, science and computer science, may see Tutor candidates with relevant work experience in the field.
Job description samples for similar positions
If you’re recruiting for positions related to Tutors, see our job descriptions for similar roles: