Looking for a job that offers flexibility and work-life balance? Part-time work may be the perfect solution for you. With more and more people seeking part-time employment for a variety of reasons, there are now many high-paying part-time jobs available in various industries and functions.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 21 million Americans were employed part-time for noneconomic reasons as of June 2023. Another 4.2 million were unemployed for economic factors. If you’re considering part-time work, we’ve compiled a list of 25 high-paying part-time jobs that offer a mix of functions, industries, and levels of experience. So whether you’re looking for a job to supplement your income or seeking a flexible work arrangement, we’ve got you covered.
Why Work Part Time?
Working part-time can offer a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for many individuals. Here are some reasons why you might consider working part-time:
- Consistency: Part-time work can provide a consistent schedule that allows you to plan your personal life around your work schedule.
- Flexibility: Many part-time jobs offer flexible schedules that can accommodate your other commitments, such as school or family obligations.
- Additional Income: Part-time work can provide a supplemental income to your existing job or help you make ends meet while searching for a full-time position.
- Variety: Part-time work can offer a change of pace from a full-time job and allow you to explore different industries or roles.
- Experience: Part-time work can be a way to gain experience and skills in a particular field, which can help you advance your career in the future.
Overall, working part-time can offer a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for many individuals. With the availability of part-time jobs across various industries, it is worth considering if it aligns with your personal and professional goals.
1. Writer
As a writer, you are responsible for creating communication materials, whether in print, online, or both. Your work could range from short-form content like social media or blog posts, pamphlets, and email copy to long-form content such as articles, web content, newsletters, reports, white papers, and even books. You might be assigned a topic or pitch your own ideas, but regardless, your role may involve conducting interviews and research and working with an editor or supervisor to ensure the quality of your work.
Writers can specialize in a particular topic or form, such as science or finance journalism, technical or medical writing, or grant writing, while others write more broadly. Entry-level writing positions usually require at least one year of experience, which could be in the form of an internship.
Many media companies list part-time writing jobs, so there are plenty of remote opportunities. However, organizations of all kinds, from nonprofits to financial institutions, also require writers. You can find writing jobs on job search websites like The Muse.
2. Tutor
As a tutor, you will be responsible for helping students of all ages learn a subject or skill. This can range from basic math to college-level physics or even preparation for standardized tests like the SAT. Unlike teachers, tutors do not require formal accreditation, but a deep knowledge of the subject they are teaching is necessary, which usually translates to at least an undergraduate degree in the subject.
Tutoring sessions can take place outside of normal business hours, with many clients preferring to meet after work/school hours or on the weekends. Rates can vary depending on the subject, your experience, and location. For example, tutors in cities like Washington, D.C. and New York City can charge $50 an hour and up. Working with a tutoring agency can help find students and take care of some employment paperwork, but working independently allows you to set your own rates and potentially earn more.
You can find tutor jobs on job search websites like The Muse.
3. Marketing Specialist
As a marketing specialist, you will be responsible for promoting and selling products or services to new or existing customers. Your work will revolve around understanding your target audience and knowing how to reach and persuade them to take action. Specialties in this field include email marketing, market research, social media, e-commerce, and search engine marketing (SEM).
To become a marketing specialist, you may need an undergraduate degree in marketing, communications, or even journalism. Companies may hire part-time marketing specialists to help with particular campaigns or to provide expertise in a particular type of marketing. Smaller organizations may only require 10 or 20 hours of marketing and communications work per week.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a marketing specialist, you can find job opportunities on The Muse. With a median hourly rate of $32.80, this field can be both rewarding and lucrative.
4. Graphic Designer
As a graphic designer, you will be responsible for creating visual content and concepts for businesses. This can range from designing flyers to working on large-scale projects like books or magazines. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, having a college degree or equivalent coursework is typically necessary to develop the necessary skill set, which may include web management.
To gain experience, students can take internships, summer jobs, or work pro bono with a club or faculty member. With one year or less of experience, you can be hired as a graphic designer. Part-time graphic designers can work consistently with one organization or with multiple clients by the project as part of an agency or as freelancers. However, they usually need to have more significant experience and a well-rounded portfolio before working independently.
The average hourly rate for a graphic designer is $24.38. To find graphic designer jobs, you can check out job search platforms like The Muse.
5. Exercise Trainer or Group Fitness Instructor
As an exercise trainer or group fitness instructor, you will work with individuals or groups to help them improve their fitness levels. You can teach a variety of classes such as yoga, kickboxing, HIIT, pilates, or spin, depending on your experience and training. The median hourly rate for this job is $19.57.
To become a personal trainer, you need to complete a certification program that can take several months. However, you only need to be 18 and have completed high school to be eligible. You may not need credentials to teach group classes, but some fitness companies require or encourage certifications in the specific fitness method. For example, a yoga studio might only hire instructors who’ve completed a yoga teacher training program.
As an instructor, you will teach classes or train clients part-time at gyms, studios, camps, community centers, and other locations. You can also work as an independent trainer directly with clients, scheduling by the session.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an exercise trainer or group fitness instructor, you can find job listings on The Muse.
6. Massage Therapist
As a massage therapist, you will work with clients to alleviate pain and tension, enhance overall health, or provide a relaxing experience. You may work in a variety of settings, such as spas, hospitals, or doctors’ offices, and with clients from different backgrounds. Typically, you will complete a program consisting of at least 500 hours of study and hands-on training, and obtain certification or licensure, depending on your state’s requirements. You may also choose to specialize in areas such as sports or deep tissue massage. Your work schedule may vary depending on your workplace and clientele, but there is often flexibility. The median hourly rate for massage therapists is $23.55. You can find massage therapist jobs on The Muse.
7. Insurance Sales Agent
As an insurance sales agent, you will be responsible for selling policies to prospective customers. These policies help mitigate certain types of risk, such as life insurance that provides financial compensation to an insured person’s beneficiaries in the event of the policyholder’s death.
Talking to people every day, identifying their needs, and working with them as they complete a detailed application are some of the tasks that you will be required to perform. The actual position could range from working at a call center to taking calls at home to meeting clients in person.
According to BLS, you just need a high school degree, though employers often look for a bachelor’s degree. You’ll also be required to obtain a license. There might be flexibility around working from home, especially if you’re selling over the phone and working non-traditional hours.
The median hourly rate for an insurance sales agent is $23.96. You can find insurance sales agent jobs on The Muse.
8. Executive Assistant
As an executive assistant, you will be responsible for providing high-level administrative support to one or more executives in an organization. Your duties may include managing calendars, scheduling meetings, greeting visitors, answering the phone, and taking care of other clerical tasks. However, you may also be required to perform more complex tasks such as pulling together research, sales materials, and other important information for one or more executives.
To become an executive assistant, employers usually look for candidates with an undergraduate degree in a business-related field like marketing or accounting. However, if you have prior experience, a degree may not be necessary. The median hourly rate for an executive assistant is $31.72. The more senior the executive you work for, the higher the salary.
There are also many opportunities for virtual assistant roles. You can find executive assistant jobs on websites like The Muse.
9. Accountant
As an accountant, you will be responsible for preparing, reviewing, and filing financial documents. You will also be tasked with maintaining and organizing detailed taxes and other records. In some cases, you may be asked to weigh in on business decisions or suggest strategies to reduce costs or increase revenue.
To become an accountant, you will need an undergraduate degree. Obtaining a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or other relevant certification can make you more attractive to employers and likely result in a higher salary. Many accountants work full-time, but smaller businesses may only require assistance during tax season or at the end of each quarter. As an independent accountant, you could pursue multiple clients on a part-time basis.
The median hourly rate for an accountant is $37.14. If you are interested in pursuing a career as an accountant, you can find job listings on The Muse.
10. Real Estate Agent
As a real estate agent, you will play a crucial role in helping clients buy, sell, or rent properties. This could include anything from residential homes to commercial buildings. You will need to keep track of the latest properties on the market, show properties to potential buyers or renters, and facilitate negotiations between parties. Additionally, you will help clients complete relevant paperwork and obtain necessary records to close deals successfully.
To become a real estate agent, you will need a license, which requires some pre-licensing courses. While a high school degree is the minimum requirement, having a bachelor’s degree can be an added advantage. However, employers usually prioritize your ability to close a sale over your educational qualifications. Real estate agents often work nontraditional hours, including nights and weekends, to accommodate clients’ schedules. However, they also enjoy the flexibility of setting their own schedules.
As a real estate agent, you can expect to earn a median hourly rate of $23.45. It’s worth noting that this rate can vary depending on your location, experience, and the type of property you work with. To find real estate jobs, you can check out The Muse, which offers a wide range of job opportunities in this field.
11. Physician Assistant
A physician assistant (PA) is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed physician. PAs are trained to diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medication, and perform various medical procedures. They work in various medical settings, including hospitals and outpatient clinics, and can specialize in different areas of healthcare.
To become a physician assistant, you will need to complete a master’s degree program and obtain a license to practice in your state of residence. PAs typically work full-time, but part-time positions are also available in smaller practices. Some larger clinics and hospitals may require part-time shift work, including overnight and weekend shifts.
According to recent data, the median hourly rate for physician assistants is $58.43. PAs can work in various specialties, including emergency medicine, trauma surgery, transplants, family medicine, and pediatrics.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a physician assistant, you can find job opportunities on job search websites like The Muse.
12. Computer Programmer
As a computer programmer, you will be responsible for writing and testing code for software applications. You’ll need to have a strong understanding of programming languages and be able to troubleshoot and fix any issues that arise. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is helpful, but not always necessary. Many programmers have obtained positions with an associate’s degree or no degree at all. You can find job opportunities on The Muse or pursue freelance or contract work. The median hourly rate for computer programmers is $44.71.
13. Software Developer
As a software developer, you will be responsible for designing applications and programs. Your role will involve creative ideation and problem-solving in the early stages of app development.
You will analyze user needs, brainstorm ways to address those needs via an application or program feature, and design the various elements of that software. You will also lay out different pieces of the project for programmers to execute and handle documentation.
The median hourly rate for a software developer is $52.41. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that developer jobs will grow 25% through 2031, much faster than the 5% average growth for all occupations.
While some companies require an undergraduate degree, it is not essential. As a software developer, you may potentially work remotely and part-time, depending on the context and workload. You may also work more flexible hours.
To find software developer jobs, you can visit The Muse, a job search platform that connects job seekers with employers.
14. Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists (OTs) are trained professionals who assist individuals in adapting their movements and behaviors to manage daily tasks more effectively.
Whether it is helping someone with a disability get out of bed or assisting a professional with their work, OTs work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, or in a person’s home.
To become an OT, you must earn a master’s degree and obtain licensing. However, part-time opportunities are available, such as working with a school that only needs assistance for a few children. OTs can also manage their own business and set their own hours.
The median hourly rate for an OT is $41.14. If you are interested in pursuing a career as an OT, you can find job opportunities on The Muse.
15. Physical Therapist
As a physical therapist (PT), you play a crucial role in helping patients manage pain and regain mobility after an injury, surgery, or stroke. You work with patients of all ages, from senior citizens to athletes, in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and physical therapy clinics.
To become a PT, you need to complete a doctor of physical therapy degree and obtain a license in the state where you work. Some PTs also pursue residencies or fellowships to specialize in certain areas.
You can work part-time during regular business hours, evenings, weekends, or a combination.
The median hourly rate for a PT is $45.97. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a PT, you can find job opportunities on The Muse.
16. Dental Hygienist
As a dental hygienist, you will assist dentists in cleaning teeth, evaluating patients for dental issues and gum disease, and providing guidance on oral health best practices. Communication skills and customer service are essential in this role, as dental hygienists frequently interact with patients.
To become a dental hygienist, you must complete an associate’s degree and a licensing program. Many dental hygienists work part-time, often for multiple dentists or offices.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly rate for dental hygienists is $37.41.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a dental hygienist, you can find job opportunities on The Muse.
17. Speech-Language Pathologist
As a speech-language pathologist, you will work with individuals of all ages who have difficulty with communication, including speech, language, and swallowing. This can be caused by a variety of factors such as developmental delays, hearing loss, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, autism, and other disorders. The median hourly rate for this profession is $38.01.
You may work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, assisted living centers, private practices, corporations, and the military.
In most states, you will need a master’s degree to practice as a speech-language pathologist, and licensing may also be required. However, the good news is that the demand for speech-language pathologists is expected to increase by 21% until 2031.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a speech-language pathologist, you can find job opportunities on The Muse.
18. Translator or Interpreter
Translators and interpreters are professionals who convert one language into another, either through written or spoken communication. They may work in various settings such as hospitals, conference centers, or other places where individuals speaking different languages are present. The median hourly rate for translators and interpreters is $23.61.
To work as a translator or interpreter, you need to have complete fluency and deep knowledge of the languages involved. This fluency can come from growing up bilingual, majoring in a foreign language in college, or gaining competency through other means.
While an undergraduate degree may be sufficient, some organizations may require continuing education or certifications for court or medical interpreters or translators.
Many translators have the option to work remotely, while those who are self-employed may have more variable hours.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in translation or interpretation, you can find job opportunities on The Muse.
19. Plumber
As a plumber, you will be responsible for installing and maintaining various systems such as water, gas, and septic. In addition to this, you will also be required to install fixtures like toilets and appliances like dishwashers.
Depending on your specialty, you may work in residential, commercial, or municipal buildings. With the increasing focus on sustainability, you may also be required to help with water conservation efforts.
To become a plumber, a high school degree is required, but you will also need to undergo vocational training, apprenticeship, and licensing.
As a plumber, your workload will depend on the number of clients you have, and you may be able to set limits on the number of clients or hours you work, especially if you are self-employed.
The median hourly rate for plumbers is $28.79. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a plumber, you can find job opportunities on The Muse.
20. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
As a diagnostic medical sonographer, you operate imaging equipment and soundwaves to produce images of different parts of the body. These images are used by doctors to diagnose various medical conditions.
You typically work in healthcare settings such as hospitals and clinics. The median hourly wage for this profession is $36.24.
To become a sonographer, you need an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate. Some employers may require certification.
Full-time positions are common, but there may also be opportunities for part-time roles. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a sonographer, you can find job openings on The Muse.
21. Property Managers
As a property manager, you will be responsible for overseeing various aspects of commercial, residential, or industrial properties. This can include tasks such as showing apartments, inspecting grounds, meeting with property owners, finding and screening tenants, completing paperwork, and more.
Property managers can work for real estate companies, apartment complexes, property developers, or property management firms.
Most property management roles are full-time, but part-time positions are often available as well. Your working hours will likely be flexible, depending on your employer’s needs.
While a high school diploma and a few years of experience in the field are typically required, some employers may prefer candidates with a college degree. In some states, you may also need a license.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a property manager, you can find job listings on The Muse.
22. Electricians
Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and renewable energy. A typical electrician’s median hourly wage is $28.87.
They work flexible schedules and often work nontraditional hours, such as nights and weekends.
To become an electrician, you usually need to attend a technical school and complete an apprenticeship. Some states require electricians to be licensed.
The work of an electrician involves installing wiring, outlets, and light fixtures in a new home build, or making repairs on staff at a commercial building.
If you are interested in finding electrician jobs, you can check out The Muse.
23. Mental Health Counselors
Mental health counselors are professionals who help individuals with mental health conditions, behavioral disorders, and substance abuse problems. They work in various settings such as clinics, hospitals, schools, and private practices. The median hourly wage for mental health counselors is $23.33.
This field is growing rapidly, with employment expected to increase by 22% through 2031 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Counselors may work part-time or on an as-needed basis. The educational and training requirements for mental health counselors can vary depending on the specific role.
While a bachelor’s degree is often required, some positions may require a master’s degree and an internship. Additionally, some states require counselors to be licensed.
For those interested in pursuing a career in mental health counseling, The Muse offers job listings for counselor positions.
24. Food Service Managers
Food service managers oversee the daily operations of establishments that prepare and serve food and beverages. Their duties include managing staff schedules, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, resolving customer complaints, managing budgets, and ordering supplies.
These roles are available in various industries such as restaurants, bars, hotels, school cafeterias, and hospitals.
Hours can be flexible, but may include nights, weekends, and holidays.
A high school diploma and work experience are typically the minimum requirements for this position, but some employers may prefer candidates with culinary or technical school training.
The median hourly wage for food service managers is $28.58. If you are interested in finding food service management positions, The Muse offers a variety of job listings in the industry.
25. Registered Nurses
Registered nurses play a vital role in coordinating patient care in a variety of healthcare settings. These include hospitals, doctors’ offices, outpatient clinics, home healthcare settings, schools, and nursing homes. They work closely with doctors to carry out treatment plans, conduct exams, and monitor patient recovery.
The 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey found that 11% of nurses work part-time. Part-time jobs are also available for licensed practical nurses, but the pay is a little lower at around $23 an hour.
The median hourly wage for registered nurses is $37.31. This wage may vary depending on the industry or type of work you are interested in. To find nursing jobs, you can search on job boards like The Muse.
You can also make a list of companies within the industries you are interested in and network actively and often with employees at those companies. Sometimes, having an entrepreneurial spirit can also be helpful in finding part-time jobs.
Positions sometimes only materialize because you asked if part-time work was available and a role was adapted or created for you.
