Working a part-time job is a great way for seniors to be active, alert, and engaged while also earning some additional income. It gives them an opportunity to use their career experiences even after retirement. Whatever their reason for working, seniors can find a host of part-time jobs that are perfect for them. Besides that, following a few tips before the interview can help them land the job they want.
Top part-time jobs for seniors
Seniors can take up quite a few part-time jobs; but some of these, especially those in education and maintenance work sectors, will require licenses. Additionally, seniors should ensure that their workplaces are not too far from their homes when searching for jobs. Plus, if seniors do not have their vehicles, they may end up paying too much for transportation.
Full-charge bookkeeper
A full-charge bookkeeper takes care of the accounting process of a business. They create invoices and track account payables, receivables, payroll, and taxes. Many small businesses hire seniors who work for a few hours every day or for two or three days a week to take care of their accounting work.
Dental hygienist
People who have experience working in a dental clinic are hired as part-time dental hygienists, provided their licenses are valid. Their responsibilities include polishing and cleaning teeth, counseling clients, research, and equipment maintenance.
School bus drivers
Research says that a majority of part-time school bus drivers are older adults. So, seniors who have a commercial driver’s license and have cleared a background check can apply for a driver’s job.
Security guard
Seniors who have a good lifestyle and are fit can find part-time jobs as security guards where they can choose roles that do not require excess heavy lifting or running too many errands.
Teachers
Nursery, primary, high schools, and teaching academies look for part-time and substitute teachers to teach special subjects. Seniors who retired as teachers or those who have the required skills or certification can register for teaching jobs.
Tour guides
Seniors who have good knowledge of history and know every nook and cranny of their town, city, or village can work as tour guides. There is a high demand for tour guides during the tourist season, and it can also pay well with added tips and incentives.
Janitorial work
Seniors with a knack for cleaning can register for small home cleaning jobs. They pay well, and one can work flexible hours.
Handyperson
There is a constant demand for people who can fix things. Handypersons are in great demand for small jobs that do not require the expertise and services of a repair company.
Mentor
Seniors can transform their lifetime of experience into practical wisdom in their respective fields of work. Many educational institutions require counselors and life coaches to mentor students and young adults. Seniors can get a license and work as counselors.
Golfing instructor
Seniors can work as golf cart drivers and attendants, golf cart staff who prepares a golf cart, and specialist goal coaches. Golf courses prefer to hire seniors who have played the game for some time and use it to benefit the other club members.
Cruise ship staff
Seniors who have been on cruises and have a friendly and kind nature can work on cruise ships as guides for other cruisers on board. They can work in gift shops and give tips on exploring or shopping in port cities.
Things to do before getting a part-time job
Prepare an updated resume
Applying for a part-time job for seniors is not very different from applying for a regular job that they had before. Seniors should prepare a resume and highlight their skills and license information, if necessary, their available time slots, and their expected salary. They must include the reason for seeking a job after retirement. Once seniors have updated their resume, they can start looking for jobs.
Upload resume on job sites
Though there are hundreds of job sites, some websites and apps only focus on jobs for seniors. So, one can upload their resumes and search for companies, businesses, and organizations looking for seniors who can work part-time.
- AARP Job Board
- Retirementjobs.com
- Workforce 50
- Retired Brains
- NewSolutions
- Seniors4Hire
- CareerOneStop
Search for jobs
Seniors can look for jobs based on zip code, skill, titles, or type. Read the job requirements and job description to see if it is the right fit. Click on “Apply” only if the job posting is for a part-time opportunity. The recruiter or the employer will review the resume and respond by telephone, then fix a date for the interview.
Prepare for an interview
It is best to prepare before the interview. Seniors should select suitable clothing for the job that is neither overly formal nor too informal. They should also learn about the company, its area of work, and its competitors. They should be clear about their available working hours and whether they will be flexible with timings or only want to work on a specific schedule.