by Cari Wira Dineen

Not quite ready to retire? Or have you decided to try your hand at another career now that you can? Regardless of your reason for working, you might want to consider one of these jobs ideal for seniors.

Retirement sounds like a great idea, but in fact, fewer people are retiring today than ever before.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 11.9% of the workforce was made up of people 55+ in 1996, but that number has steadily grown and is expected to be 24.8% by 2024. The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis reports that there are now more people aged 65 to 69 employed than there are working teenagers.

“How can we retire at 65 when we’re living so much longer? The whole notion of retirement has been turned on its head,” says Kerry Hannon, a career and retirement expert and author of What’s Next? Follow Your Passion and Find Your Dream Job. Plus, many people simply have not saved enough to retire.

There are also many people who are choosing not to retire or choosing to have a second or third career. And working, in and of itself, isn’t such a bad thing. “Having a job keeps you mentally engaged and keeps money coming, staving off collecting Social Security or dipping into your retirement account,” says Hannon.

No matter what your reason behind getting a job you need to know the best resources out there.

Where to Look

Online

Some companies actually label themselves as “age-friendly.” RetirementJobs.com hosts an “Age Friendly Employer Certification” program, where the companies included have met “best practice” standards (such as management style, flexible scheduling, and health care benefits that tend to be senior-friendly). To find out more, click here.

Another great job site specifically geared toward the post-retirement crowd is Workforce50.com.

Part-time

Working part-time means money’s coming in, but it also gives you a more flexible schedule. Jobs to consider:

Your old job. – “Consider doing your old job, for less,” says Hannon. Employers don’t like to lose people with experience, so find out if you can consult or work on short-term projects at your old company.

Freelance. – Freelancing (such as bookkeeping or editing) is on the rise, since employers are nervous to make full-time hires in this job market. Check out FlexJobs for short-term professional jobs. Pay is based on your profession.

Expert Interview: Part-Time Jobs Ideal for Retirees

New career

Get in on an industry that’s growing. Some of the biggest growing jobs according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics include nursing, retail sales, home health aides, office clerks, food service, customer service, and truck driving. While you may have to head back to school in some cases, there’s a high probability that you’ll have a job waiting for you when you are finished.

Another option to consider is a direct sales business, such as Avon. The hours are flexible, there’s a social component of hosting parties, and you can make a five- or six-digit salary depending on how much you work. Look at the Direct Selling Association member directory for legitimate companies that might be interesting for you.

Expert Interview: A Realistic Second Career for Retirees

University work. – “College towns are virtually recession-proof and are teaming with part-time job opportunities, especially on campus with jobs such as part-time research positions,” says Hannon. Log on to a university’s website to look for current openings.

Handyman/Household services. – If you enjoy tinkering, you can make $10-$20 an hour to fix things, so long as you have your own tools. If you are a talented seamstress, consider doing alterations (check local tailor rates to price accordingly). Start with friends or neighbors and ask them to pass your name along.

Pet sit. – Love animals? “Pet sitting and dog walking can actually be very profitable,” says Hannon. Check out Sittercity.com and Rover.com.

Seasonal work. – At the holidays, department stores often hire extra staff. In the spring, accounting offices, amusement parks, and nurseries hire extra hands.

Sporting events/coaching. “Practically every major and minor league team host job fairs each spring for everything from ticket collectors to game announcers,” says Hannon. Plus you get the added perk of getting to see the games for free. If you’re interested in coaching or being an umpire, get in touch with local high schools, youth teams or amateur leagues.

• Make Extra Money Teaching Others Your Skills
• Your Strengths Don’t Retire When You Do
• Launching a Successful Part Time Business in Retirement Without Jeopardizing Your Savings
• 8 Ways To Make Extra Money

Reviewed April 2023