Early Years Educator Salary in Ireland: 2026 Guide to Pay Rates
Thinking about working in an Irish crèche, or wondering whether you’re being paid fairly? Pay in Ireland’s early years sector is protected by law, with legal minimum hourly rates for every role, from early years educator to crèche manager.
Here’s what you can expect to earn, and how qualifications and experience affect your pay.
How pay works in Irish crèches
Minimum pay for the early years sector is set by an Employment Regulation Order (ERO), agreed by the Early Years Joint Labour Committee, which brings together employer and worker representatives. Employers can pay more than these rates, and many do, but they can’t legally pay less. The Workplace Relations Commission publishes the current rates.
Minimum hourly rates (from 13 October 2025)
| Role | Minimum hourly rate | Approx. yearly (39 hrs/week) |
|---|---|---|
| Early Years Educator / School Age Childcare Practitioner | €15.00 | about €30,400 |
| Lead Educator (Room Leader) / SAC Coordinator | €16.00 | about €32,400 |
| Graduate Lead Educator (Level 7+) | €17.50 | about €35,500 |
| Deputy / Assistant Manager | €18.00 | about €36,500 |
| Centre Manager | €19.00 | about €38,500 |
| Graduate Centre Manager | €20.25 | about €41,000 |
Yearly figures are estimates for a full-time 39-hour week before tax. Lower minimum rates can apply to workers under 20.
A pay increase is on the way
In September 2026, the Early Years Joint Labour Committee agreed new proposals that would raise minimum hourly rates by at least €1, an average increase of around 6.5%. Once the new Order comes into force, we’ll update this guide with the new rates.
What affects your pay
- Your role: room leaders, deputy managers and managers earn more than early years educators.
- Your qualification: a Level 7 degree or higher can bring a higher graduate rate for room leaders and managers.
- Your experience: many crèches pay above the minimum for experienced staff.
- Where you work: crèches in Dublin and other cities often pay more, as living costs are higher.
Qualified abroad?
If you trained outside Ireland, you’ll need your qualification recognised to work in an Irish crèche, and your recognised level will help decide which role, and which pay rate, you’re eligible for. See our qualification recognition guide for how it works.
Find your next role
Crèche Staff lists crèche jobs across Ireland, from early years educator to manager, full-time, part-time and relief. Create your free profile, and crèches can find you.
This guide is for general information. Pay rates can change, so always check the latest rates published by the Workplace Relations Commission.