Some retirees need a little extra income to help them afford basic items like health care, travel, and social activities that keep them active and involved in the community – but where can seniors find jobs? It may seem challenging to reenter the workforce over the age of 50, 60, and 70, but, there are some great part-time employment opportunities that seniors can easily find. Follow along to learn about some great jobs for older adults and get started working in no time.
1. Customer Service
Whether it’s your local fitness center, museum, hotel, shopping mall, or corporate office, most businesses need a friendly face to greet customers and clients. If you’re comfortable talking to people on the phone and in-person, working on a computer, helping to resolve problems, checking people in or out, and ringing people up on a cash register, there may be a customer service role that’s perfect for you. Customer service jobs can include: cashiers, salespeople, call center representatives, administrative assistants, receptionists, and client relations personnel.
2. Event Workers
Would you enjoy working in a lively, bustling atmosphere? All events – including conferences, weddings, festivals, and corporate parties – have dozens of jobs that help an event run smoothly. Whatever your personality, physical abilities, or limitations, one of these positions may be right for you: parking lot attendant, parking lot cashier, coat check attendant, set-up worker/cleaner, usher, badge scanner, greeter, security, food services, reservations, information booth attendant.
3. Substitute Teacher
If you have a flexible schedule that allows you to work on short notice – and you’re good with children – consider life as a substitute teacher. While state requirements vary, a teaching license is typically unnecessary. School districts may accept subs with a high school education, a certain number of credit hours from an accredited institution, or only those with a higher education. Contact your local Board of Education for more information on the state requirements needed to become a substitute teacher.
4. English as a Second Language Teacher
English as a Second Language (ESL), English as a Foreign Language (EFL), and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) are English language study programs for nonnative speakers. If you are bilingual (not always required), have a bachelor’s degree, and can focus on what’s important to the learner, consider completing the year-long certification program to teach English as a second language. Check with your state Department of Education about license and certification requirements as they vary in each state.
5. Driver
Do you enjoy driving? You may be able to drive for a ride sharing service like Uber or Lyft if your vehicle and driving history meet the company’s requirements. Or, instead of transporting people, drop off packages, food, or even medical products as a delivery driver or courier. If you’re serious about driving, consider getting a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to boost your driving opportunities. Then, you can apply to drive a school bus, garbage truck, moving truck, tractor-trailer, or another type of vehicle requiring a CDL.
6. Babysitter/Childcare
If you have children and grandchildren of your own, chances are you would feel comfortable providing child care service to families from time to time. Parents sometimes prefer older, more experienced babysitters who are responsible, patient, good teachers, trustworthy, and sensitive. You might opt to earn a First Aid, CPR/AED, or babysitting certification to add even more value to your clients. If this sounds like a good fit, consider which age group would be right for your energy level and physical abilities.
7. Dog Walker
Like dogs? Dog owners who work or vacation may need someone to walk their dog when they’re not around. Reach out to your community about your dog walking services. Or simplify the process with apps like Rover and Wag! that connect dog owners with dog walkers.
Where can seniors find jobs?
Now that you have some job ideas, apply directly to companies in your area, network with friends and family, or search by keyword and location online through a job search site, such as:
- USAJobs: The Federal Government’s official employment site
- America’s Veteran: The U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s Government-wide Veterans Employment Website
- Experience Works’</> Senior Community Service Employment Program
- National Institutes of Health: A federal program that gives job training and employment services to low-income job seekers age 55 and older
- Indeed: A popular worldwide employment-related search engine for job listings
Happy job hunting!
Related Information:
Rewarding Work-From-Home Volunteer Opportunities
Safe Travel Tips for Seniors