The report by the vocational education organisation indicates that only three-fifths, or 60 per cent, of those surveyed from the child and youth care sector are happy with their job.
Eighty-two per cent describe their work as worthwhile and rewarding, and 75 per cent find it challenging and stimulating.
However, only 44 per cent said they were satisfied with what they earned. The survey reveals that this is the lowest paid profession, with over half (57 per cent) of those surveyed earning £14,999 or less.
Ninety-six per cent agree that getting a good wage is an important happiness factor for childcare and youth workers. This group also suffers from a lack of career progression opportunities, with over a third (36 per cent) feeling there is little scope to move up in their roles.
Just over 2,000 workers across the UK took part in the survey, 96 of whom were from the child and youth care sector.
Overall, apart from better pay, the survey found that the British workforce wants flexibility, reasonable control over their daily duties and the opportunity to use their skills to tackle challenges and gain rewards.
Almost nine in ten (87 per cent) gardeners and florists said they were happy in their job, making them the happiest workers in the UK. They are followed by hairdressers (79 per cent happy) and plumbers (76 per cent).
At the other end of the spectrum, bankers are least happy, at 44 per cent, followed by IT and data processors (48 per cent) and human resources employees (54 per cent).
The survey also found that money does not necessarily lead to happiness, as those earning over £60,000 are the unhappiest (22 per cent).
Nick Bradley, group director at City & Guilds, commented, ‘At a time when both happiness and employment are high on the Government agenda, we wanted to link the two areas and look into what affects levels of happiness at work and in life.
‘It’s disheartening to see that workers in child and youth care have scored so badly in the Career Happiness Index. There seems to be a clear link between the lack of career progression and happiness at work.'
The findings coincide with The Skills Show 2012, sponsored by City & Guilds. Taking place in Birmingham from 15-17 November, it will showcase opportunities for young people in further education, skills and apprenticeships.
Mr Bradley said about the event, ‘We want to inspire young people to recognise the opportunities available to them through vocational education, whilst highlighting our commitment to driving the skills agenda in Britain. Having a happy and motivated workforce is essential to boosting productivity and the recovery of the UK economy.’
