Best jobs for Retirees

If you’re planning to retire soon, getting a part time job is a great way to help with the transition.  If you’re already retired, you may be seeking out part time work for budgetary reasons or for supplemental income; maybe even just to keep mentally or physically active.  The fact is that more “people age 65 and older are expected to be working or looking for work over the next five or six years than any other segment of the U.S. population”, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  While this segment of our population isn’t necessarily looking for long term positions or positions with advancement, they are looking for work and the options available to them are growing.

Employment agencies advise seniors to carefully consider what they are looking for before beginning their job search.  Consider things such as;

• How much are you willing to work?
• What type of schedule do you want?
• How much money do you need/want to earn?
• How much responsibility do you want?

Once you define these basic things, then you can move on to the job search.  So, we’ve compiled a list of the top most popular jobs for seniors that may be readily available in your area;

Teacher – Substitute, Aide or Tutor. Part time teaching is a great job for retirees.  Weather you taught during your career, or if you just feel knowledgeable about a particular subject, this can be a rewarding opportunity that allows you to set your own schedule.

Consultant – Just because you are retired, doesn’t mean the years you spent developing your expertise in your field ends there. Consulting gives you the opportunity to share that knowledge while giving you a sense of helping others learn from your expertise.

Freelancer – Do you write?  Or have you always wanted to write?  Freelancing gives you the opportunity to do this from your own home.  Research, writing and blogging is a popular occupation.  One that allows you to choose your topics and set your own hours.

Pet Sitter – Many people travel for business or leisure, however bringing their pets along just isn’t a viable option.  Kenneling is an option, however having a pet sitter proves to be more comfortable and convenient for both the pet and the owner.  Being a pet sitter allows you to either stay at the owners’ home, or just drop by to feed, care for and play with the pets.  This is a great part time job for those pet lovers.

Driver – Want to earn extra money driving people around?  One option is to be an Uber or Lift driver.  The hours are flexible, and the job isn’t physically demanding.  If you’re not interested in driving your own car, you may prefer driving for a limousine or car service.  Senior communities many times look for drivers for outings and events, although, these hours may not be as flexible as an Uber or Lift driver.

Temporary or Seasonal Positions – This is a great way to test the waters in searching out a part time job.  Seasonal jobs may include retail jobs, restaurant jobs, delivery, and parks and recreational jobs during peak times (winter or summer).  If part time office help is of interest, many industries have their peak times such as CPA’s or tax preparation services. One-time special event help may also be of interest.

Volunteering– If money isn’t the objective, there are many organizations willing to accept your help.  Hospitals, charities, churches, animal rescue and other community organizations would be a good place to look to see what you can offer.