In the past few years, many employers have come to realize just how important it is to offer their employees a flexible work schedule.
Overall, it’s been found that flexibility in the workplace means less stress and an increased work-life balance for employees, which boosts levels of job satisfaction. And for employers, an increase in productivity and a decrease in absenteeism means significant savings for a company. A win-win!
One of the biggest benefits of being on a flexible work schedule is the ability to take care of family and personal responsibilities without feelings of guilt or stress typically associated with leaving work.
Flexible hours may also give you the freedom to work when you feel most productive. This may mean early mornings if you’re an early riser, or late nights if you do your best work while others are sleeping.
If you still prefer to work typical day hours but hate rush hour traffic, you can change your work hours slightly for a faster and less stressful commute. Another twist on flexible hours is compressed work days, where you work longer hours in exchange for an extra day or two off during the week.
We all lead very different lives with our own unique wants and needs when it comes to work flexibility. So before you start looking for a career, figure out what that means to you.
Do you want to work from the office? From home? Set your own hours? Or a combination of these things? Figuring that out ahead of time can help narrow down your search.
We’ve highlighted some flexible career options below, separated by sector. Some offer a great deal of flexibility, some a bit less.
And remember — just because a company doesn’t mention flexible work arrangements in its job posting doesn’t mean it won’t consider them. It’s important to ask a lot of questions about company culture during the interview process to help you figure out if an employer is the right fit for you.
TECHNOLOGY
Most jobs in tech can be done remotely, and are well-suited to contract or freelance work. They are at the top of our list for work flexibility.
Web Designer
Web Developer
Front-End Developer
Back-End Developer
Full Stack Developer
Software Engineer
Graphic Designer
UX Designer
Software Quality Assurance Engineer
Computer Programmer
Systems Engineer
Systems Analyst
Cybercrime Investigator
App Developer
Data Scientist
BUSINESS, MARKETING, AND CONTENT
Consultant and sales careers typically have flexible hours. Other careers in this field can be done remotely, such as customer service work, writing, blogging, and editing.
Marketing jobs (especially freelance-based) can be very flexible and can fit in with your schedule.
Consultant
Bookkeeper
Accountant
Tax Preparer
Business Analyst
Marketing Manager
Sales Representative
Customer Service Representative
Public Relations Specialist
Real Estate Agent
Merchandiser
Administrative Assistant
Copywriter
Blogger
Writer
Content Manager
Translator
Proofreader
Editor
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Quite a few health related careers enable you to schedule clients and select the times you’re available to work.
Personal Care Aide
Medical Transcriptionist
Massage Therapist
Physical Therapist
Registered Dietitian
Acupuncturist
Hypnotherapist
Personal Trainer
Occupational Therapist
Music Therapist
Animal Assisted Therapist
Art Therapist
Recreational Therapist
Physiotherapist
THE TRADES
Working in the trades can include shorter work weeks (an example could be working three 12-hour shifts and getting four days off), seasonal work, and working outside of the typical 9–5 hours.
You can also choose to work for yourself and schedule your own hours.
Plumber
Pipefitter
Electrician
Plasterer
Carpenter
Cabinetmaker
Construction Painter
Construction Worker
Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installer
Furniture Finisher
Locksmith
Motorcycle Mechanic
Automotive Service Technician
Auto Body Repairer
OTHER INDUSTRIES
Many of these jobs are offered with part-time or full-time hours, or you can start your own business and make your own hours.
Interior Designer
Photographer
Hairdresser
Make-Up Artist
Nail Technician
Housekeeper
Dog Walker
Nanny
Film and Video Editor
Tour Guide
Wedding Planner
Event Planner
Caterer
Dog Groomer
Still not sure what your next step should be? Take the CareerExplorer career test and uncover your top career and degree matches. This could be just the starting point you need!
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