Reading Interventionist Salary Overview
Salaries for Reading Interventionists vary based on experience, certifications (such as a reading specialist endorsement), location, school district funding, and education level. Urban areas and private institutions may offer higher compensation.
National Average: $42,000 - $72,000 per year
Experience-Based Salary Ranges
Entry Level (0-2 years)
$42,000 - $48,000
Mid Level (3-5 years)
$49,000 - $58,000
Senior Level (6-9 years)
$59,000 - $66,000
Manager/Director (10+ years)
$67,000 - $72,000+
Entry Level (0-2 years)
- Often holds a bachelor's degree with initial teaching certification
- Gains experience working with K-3 or special needs readers
- Assists senior interventionists or classroom teachers
- May begin working toward reading specialist certification
Mid Level (3-5 years)
- Holds a master’s degree or additional literacy training
- Implements targeted reading programs and assessments
- Develops individual literacy plans for students
- Collaborates with parents and classroom teachers regularly
Senior Level (6-9 years)
- Leads school-wide reading initiatives
- Mentors junior interventionists and staff
- Has a strong track record of student improvement
- Possesses advanced certification or endorsement in reading/literacy
Manager/Director (10+ years)
- Serves as literacy coordinator for a district or region
- Designs and evaluates intervention programs
- Presents at educational conferences or conducts training
- Oversees a team of reading intervention professionals
Regional Salary Variations
Salaries for Reading Interventionists can vary significantly depending on geographic location, largely driven by state education budgets, cost of living, and local demand for literacy professionals.
New York City
$52,000 - $74,000
San Francisco
$54,000 - $75,000
Chicago
$48,000 - $69,000
Los Angeles
$50,000 - $72,000
Dallas
$45,000 - $65,000
Atlanta
$44,000 - $64,000
Phoenix
$43,000 - $62,000
Remote (US-based)
$46,000 - $66,000
- Higher salaries in urban districts may be offset by higher housing costs
- Rural and suburban areas may offer better benefits but lower base pay
- State-level education funding influences salary ceilings
- District performance and needs can lead to bonus structures
Industry Salary Comparison
Reading Interventionists primarily work in K-12 education, but their skills can transfer to private tutoring centers, nonprofits, or curriculum development roles. Pay tends to be highest in well-funded school districts or private education settings.
| Industry | Salary Range | Bonus/Equity | Growth Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public K-12 Education | $42,000 - $68,000 | Low | Stable |
| Private Schools | $45,000 - $72,000 | Moderate | Good |
| Education Technology | $55,000 - $78,000 | High | Very Good |
| Tutoring Centers | $40,000 - $60,000 | Low | Limited |
| Nonprofits / Literacy Programs | $43,000 - $65,000 | Low | Stable |
Job Outlook and Career Growth
As literacy remains a foundational educational priority, the demand for Reading Interventionists is expected to remain steady, with growth tied to funding and education policy shifts.
- Increased federal and state funding for literacy programs
- Growing awareness of early intervention needs
- Expansion of roles into digital/online learning environments
Salary Negotiation Tips
Negotiating your salary as a Reading Interventionist requires a clear understanding of your qualifications, the school’s budget, and regional trends.
Preparation Strategies
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Research Local Averages
Know the average pay in your district and state for your level.
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Highlight Certification
Show how your credentials, such as a reading specialist license, add value.
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Document Impact
Present metrics or testimonials demonstrating your student success rates.
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Know the Budget Cycle
Align your negotiation with district hiring and budgeting timelines.
During Negotiation
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Lead with Data
Support your request with regional benchmarks and student outcomes.
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Ask for Full Compensation
Include benefits, professional development, and stipends in your discussion.
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Stay Professional
Frame the conversation around value and impact, not entitlement.
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Be Flexible
If salary is capped, negotiate for classroom resources or time for prep.
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Request Reviews
Ask for performance-based raise opportunities after 1 year.