New Brunswick will invest $7.24 million to create a fourth wage step for early childhood educators, increasing pay by up to six per cent.
The new step takes effect Sept. 16 and will be fully funded by the provincial government with no cost to child-care operators, the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development announced Thursday.
Wage increases target retention
Entry-level educators will see their top wage rise to $20.08 per hour from $18.95, representing a six per cent increase. Level 1 educators will earn up to $27.33 per hour, up from $25.91 — a 5.5 per cent increase.
“Early childhood educators play a vital role in shaping young minds, supporting families and building stronger communities,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson. “Wage increases are essential to retain and attract skilled professionals, reduce turnover and ensure children receive consistent, high-quality care and education during their most formative years.”
Four-step wage structure
The expanded wage grid now includes four steps for both educator levels. Entry-level educators start at $16.83 per hour and can advance annually based on experience. Level 1 educators begin at $23.29 per hour.
Educators may move up one step on the wage grid each year based on their experience.
“I want to thank all early childhood educators for their continued dedication and the meaningful impact they have on children and families every day,” said Johnson. “This wage increase is one step forward in our ongoing effort to support the early learning and child-care workforce.”
The department will provide additional details to child-care operators directly.
