We know that returning to work after retiring isn’t high on anyone’s priority list, but it is a reality that many individuals face. Not only are economic and market conditions constantly changing, but sometimes, life throws things at you that you weren’t expecting.
Whether you unexpectedly lost some of your retirement or have to go back to work to support a family member, there are many jobs that are easy for retirees to pick up. Read on to learn about the 10 best jobs for retirees.
1. Working in Your Dream Store Part-Time
We’ve all said something like “I would work in a bookstore if I could,” or “I would love to work in a flower store.” The reality is, now is the time to do so! Because you can only work part-time as a retiree, there is no reason not to take that low-paying job that you couldn’t work while you were raising a family. Plus, though these jobs don’t pay well, they often come with perks!
2. Substitute Teacher
If you had a teaching degree or worked as a teacher during your professional life, it is very easy to transition into substitute teaching when you retire. While the need will vary depending on the state you live in, most substitute teaching positions are very flexible, allowing you to pick up days when you want to work, and not work anything when you don’t—which is perfect for a retiree.
Some states are so desperate for substitute teachers that you don’t even need a specific teaching degree—a bachelor’s in anything will do.
3. Tutoring
Tutoring is another excellent job for retirees, though it can be difficult to find a position depending on your qualifications and where you live. While there are many centers like Sylvan nationwide, and online programs that allow you to tutor digitally (Wyzant and Tutor.com), AI has eliminated some of these jobs. Regardless, tutoring can be a great way to make extra money to supplement your retirement if you have the opportunity to do so!
4. Become a Tour Guide
Thanks to platforms like Airbnb experiences and Viator, almost anyone can become a tour guide these days. Of course, if you live in a small town in the middle of nowhere, this probably isn’t for you, but those in a city or near a very touristy place can pick up some extra income by offering tours!
You’ll probably have to spend some time educating yourself on famous landmarks and the history of where you plan to lead tours, but once you do so, this is a very flexible job option with very little overhead, making it perfect for retirees.
5. Work as an Usher
If you live near a venue with concerts, theater shows, and sports games, then becoming an usher is probably the perfect job for you. While you may need to have a certain level of mobility, most usher jobs are easy—you just show someone where to go! And the wages, while they aren’t the best, often include free tickets to certain events at the venue, something which can help keep you entertained when you aren’t working.
It is important to note that most ushers must be available to work evening hours, so this isn’t a job for those looking to fill their days.
6. Instacart
Those who enjoy shopping and don’t mind driving should look into the gig economy. While Uber can be a challenge for some seniors (because of insurance requirements), typically, you don’t have to inform your insurance when you are just shopping for others and delivering.
Instacart is best for those who don’t mind buying groceries, while those who don’t want to walk around a store should look into delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash. While you won’t make a ton of money, many gig economy workers in this sector make $15-$20 per hour and enjoy how flexible the work is.
7. Tax Preparation
If you need extra income sometimes, but not year-round, becoming a tax preparation specialist might be for you. Companies like H&R Block and TurboTax are always looking for individuals to work on a seasonal basis (usually January-April) in helping individuals file their taxes. While you do need to have some tax knowledge, there are generally no education requirements, and the pay is competitive when compared to other jobs on this list.
8. Hotels
Hotels are an awesome place to get a part-time career. While many require you to be able to stand for several hours, the shifts are flexible, and they won’t mind if you only want to work part-time. Plus, you might get some deals, so you can still do all the traveling you planned on!
9. Libraries or Museums
Libraries and museums are fun places to work, but the pay unfortunately keeps many from choosing it as a career. As a retiree, working at one of these can be a great way to spend time with people, talk about your passion, and earn a little extra cash.
Check out RetirementJobs.com to learn more about these types of opportunities in your area.
10. Work at a Gym
Modern gyms don’t need too many employees, but most still need someone to sit at the front desk and check someone in—something which can be difficult with the 24-hour schedule that many gyms are moving toward. Although you’ll probably start with an evening or night shift, this is a great job that will allow you to sit, and you might even be able to read as you work. Plus, most offer a free membership to their employees, giving you access to a gym while you are also making money!
Overall, returning to work after retiring isn’t fun for anyone, but it can be a necessity for a variety of reasons. We hope you have found a job you think you would enjoy (and is hiring in your area) on this list! If you have suggestions or additions, let us know in the comments section. We love to hear from you!
