80 of the Most Flexible Jobs That Also Pay Well

Although a nine-to-five job with a fixed schedule typically allows better predictability and stability, many prefer flexible work options that can provide a better work-life balance. Thankfully, with the advent of team communication software such as Zoom, the workplace is quickly changing and adapting. Nowadays, many high-paying careers allow the flexibility of working remotely, part-time, and even the possibility of freelance. Skip to the infographic for a quick visualization of the most flexible jobs available.

Note: All average hourly rate and median salary information reported is from the 2020 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook.

What Jobs Have the Most Free Time?

If you’d like to pursue a career where you can take plenty of time off, consider these flexible job positions:

College Professor

With long summer vacations, access to campus facilities, and generous salaries, becoming a college professor is without a doubt a great career choice for those passionate about teaching.

Median salary: $80,790
Education requirements: Master’s degree or PhD

Speech-Language Pathologist

Since most speech-language pathologists have the option to work at schools, they can enjoy summer vacations just like professors and teachers. This allows them to work roughly 300 hours less per year than the average U.S. worker.

Median salary: $83,240
Education requirements: Master’s degree

Dentist

According to the BLS, many dentists work less than 40 hours per week and make an average of $164,010 per year. For those interested in health care, dentistry is a lucrative career field to look into.

Median salary: $164,010
Education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree

High-Paying Jobs With Flexible Hours

Flexible jobs allow you to balance your priorities in a less stressful manner and maintain a better work-life balance. Check out these 80 most flexible jobs that not only pay well, but will also match your lifestyle.

1. Data Scientist

Data scientists are becoming in demand nowadays due to the amount of data being collected by major companies worldwide. To properly manage and analyze big data, most companies will hire data scientists to offer their expertise.

Typically, having a career in data science is flexible since most work can be done remotely. Apart from working at a major corporation, data scientists also have the option to work part-time or as a freelancer. Due to their deep understanding of machine learning, statistical modeling, and other professional knowledge, they are usually compensated generously.

Average hourly rate: $49.97
Education requirements: Master’s degree

2. Photographer

Photographers can showcase their talent and skills in various industries. For example, fashion, sports, concerts, commercial, industrial, wedding, food, and travel. Depending on your interests and capabilities, you can venture into many different niches as a freelance photographer. If you’ve always been interested in taking photos, consider trying it out professionally.

Average hourly rate: $19.85
Education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

3. Dietitian

Dietitians and nutritionists are experts in food and nutrition, and their job entails advising clients on how and what to eat in order to achieve a certain health or body goal. For example, weight loss or managing conditions such as high cholesterol. With the general society becoming increasingly health-conscious, dietitians and nutritionists will only become more in demand. Dietitians can work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and private practices, but they can also work remotely by supporting patient needs through phone or video calls.

Average hourly rate: $30.33
Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree

4. Graphic Designer

If you are a creative who is passionate about taking on a variety of art and design projects, graphic design might be a flexible and suitable career path for you. The job description of graphic design usually revolves around developing product concepts, arranging illustrative materials, as well as visualizing and creating graphics. As a graphic designer, you have the option to work in-house at a firm or find your own clients as a freelancer on sites like Upwork or Fiverr. By working independently, you’ll have the flexibility to schedule and charge clients on your own terms.

Average hourly rate: $25.66
Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree

5. Virtual Assistant

As the name suggests, a virtual assistant is a person who provides virtual administrative services to businesses from a remote location. With e-commerce businesses on the rise, virtual assistants are needed to help these businesses expand and grow sustainably. Typically, a virtual assistant’s job duty can range anywhere from making phone calls, managing email accounts, or handling customer service.

Average hourly rate: $19.71
Education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

6. Plumber

Plumbing is a profession in which you earn as you learn. While you prepare to get your plumbing license, you can work under the supervision of a licensed plumber to gain experience and expertise. The benefits of becoming a licensed plumber include job flexibility, stability, and earning potential. No matter where you are in the world, plumbers will always be needed. As you gain experience, you’ll even have the opportunity to become your own boss and set your own schedule.

Average hourly rate: $27.08
Education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

7. Blogger

Blogging can be an extremely lucrative career depending on the size of your blog and your niche. With a loyal blog audience, bloggers can make money through displayed advertisements, affiliate marketing, selling courses, and promoting online products. If creating content is your passion and expertise, create a blog today and start making money.

Average hourly rate: Varies
Education requirements: None

8. Electrician

An electrician is a skilled person who specializes in installing, designing, and maintaining electrical systems in different types of buildings. Most electricians start out their careers by attending apprenticeship programs or trade schools. Once their skill set is established, many electricians choose to become self-employed in order to have better autonomy in terms of work schedule. According to the BLS, as of 2020, electricians on average bring in $56,900 per year.

Average hourly rate: $27.36
Education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

9. Massage Therapist

If the regular nine-to-five career does not fit your ideal lifestyle, consider pursuing a career in massage therapy. As a massage therapist, you have the option to work in a wide variety of settings such as hotels, resorts, health facilities, at clients’ homes, or even on cruise ships. A career in massage therapy can be part-time or full-time, which is great for people who value flexibility. Additionally, becoming a massage therapist does not require a college degree, which can save you a considerable amount of tuition fees.

Average hourly rate: $20.97
Education requirements: Postsecondary nondegree award

10. Interior Designer

Thanks to technology such as Zoom and design software, interior designers can now work remotely in the comfort of their own homes while communicating with clients. The certifications needed to become an interior designer can vary from state to state, but generally designers are required to pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification examination.

Average hourly rate: $27.43
Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree

11. Software Consultant

Software consultants usually have extensive experience in software engineering or software development. To keep up with the latest technology and software trends, many companies hire software consultants to provide their expertise in this field. In addition, with a great resume and portfolio, you can acquire clients online and make a lucrative income.

Average hourly rate: $45.06
Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree

12. Personal Trainer

If you’re passionate about fitness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, becoming a personal trainer can be a flexible and rewarding career option to pursue. Some personal trainer certifications can take as little as three to four months to complete. Once certified, you can start picking up clients and carve out a niche for yourself. Successful personal trainers often utilize social media to promote themselves and land celebrity clients. Once established in the industry, you can start charging high hourly rates for your services.

Average hourly rate: $19.48
Education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

13. Web Designer

In this day and age, one of the most effective ways to prove a business’s credibility is through establishing a strong online presence and having a well-designed website. According to the BLS, the employment of web designers and web developers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is relatively faster than other careers and industries. If building websites is your passion, consider making it your career and even start your own web design business.

Average hourly rate: $37.12
Education requirements: Associate’s Degree

14. Speech-Language Pathologist

A speech-language pathologist is a health care professional trained to provide vocal rehabilitation and treatment to those who have difficulties with speech or language. Speech-language pathologists can work in a variety of settings including schools, clinics, and private practices. Though most choose to work full-time, going part-time is also an available option. Due to the level of training required, speech-language pathologists are compensated lucrative salaries at an average of $83,240 per year (BLS).

Average hourly rate: $38.69
Education requirements: Master’s degree

15. Sales Representative

Sales representatives are responsible for promoting a company’s products and services by identifying leads and educating prospects. Today, many companies are allowing their sales representatives to create their own schedules and even work from home. If you are passionate about sales and prefer a commissioned-based salary, consider becoming a sales representative for a flexible career and an unlimited income potential.

Average hourly rate: $26.41
Education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

16. Genetic Counselor

Genetic counselors are health care professionals who work with individuals or families to help them understand how their family history and DNA could affect their health. For example, identifying the risks of inherited diseases or conditions. Genetic counselors can choose to work part-time, full-time, or freelance. As of 2020, the average salary for genetic counselors is around $89,000, with the top 10 percent earning over $120,000 per year.

Average hourly rate: $43.13
Education requirements: Master’s degree

17. Software Developer

The utilization of software is required in almost every industry. For a company to distinguish itself from competitors and provide better products and services, employing professional software developers is crucial. The main role of a software developer is to develop software and provide solutions that cater to the users’ needs. To become a software developer, you will need a proficient understanding of programming languages and engineering principles.

Average hourly rate: $52.95
Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree

18. Social Media Managers

Due to the popularity and influential power of social media, almost every business needs a social media manager to help manage and expand its online presence. Social media managers’ responsibilities can include running social media campaigns, analyzing key metrics to improve performance, and creating engaging content to promote the business. Apart from working alongside the marketing team in a firm, social media managers can also choose to work as a freelancer or start their own agency.

Average hourly rate: $68.03
Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree

19. Online Tutor

Becoming an online tutor is a great career option for anyone who has expertise in a certain topic and enjoys teaching. Today, there are many sites such as Chegg or eTutorWorld where tutors can offer their services to students worldwide. Depending on the subject and your level of experience, hourly rates can vary. However, tutoring online can allow you to work as much or as little as you want, which is a great career option for those who prefer flexibility instead of a fixed schedule.

Average hourly rate: $24.23
Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree

20. Dog Walker

Dog walking might not seem like the most lucrative career, but if you manage to rack up a considerable number of clients, you can be making a profit that is equal to or even more than the average full-time salary. Apps such as Barkly Pets or PetBacker allow you to conveniently find dog walking opportunities online and slowly build your reputation in the business. As you grow your loyal client base, you can even start your own dog walking business and make a long-term career out of it.

Average hourly rate: $12.86
Education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

60 More High-Paying Flexible Job Options

Plenty of career options can allow you to earn a high income while working flexible hours. Here are some of the most flexible jobs in different fields you can explore.

Business and Communications Jobs

Real Estate agent
Financial Analyst
Social Media Manager
Content Strategist
Communications Specialist
Project Manager
Quantitative Market Researcher
Chartered Accountant
Client Services Coordinator
Recruiter
Management Consultant
Entrepreneur
Auditor
Business Process Analyst
Account Manager
Supply Chain Coordinator
Operations Manager
Controller
Economics Writer
Executive Assistant

Technical Jobs

Front-End Developer
Game Designer
UX Designer
Java Developer
Tech Product Manager
Enterprise Architect
Machine Learning Engineer
Computer Systems Analyst
Technical Support Engineer
Back-End Developer
Solutions Engineer
Computer Research Scientist
Database Administrator
Mobile Application Developer
Cloud Architect
Cybersecurity Analyst
Internet of Things Designer
Full-Stack Developer
Business Intelligence Analyst
Quality Assurance Analyst

Creative Jobs

Tattoo Artist
Art Director
Fashion Designer
Animator
Video Editor
Screenwriter
Makeup Artist
Music Composer
Hair Stylist
Videographer
Fashion Journalist
Writing Coach
Multimedia Artist
3D Artist
Visual Strategist
Photo Editor
Motion Graphics Designer
Sound Engineer
Voice-Over Artist
Professional Dancer

Hopefully, this list of high-paying job options has inspired you to explore a more flexible career path. Even if you do not have any experience or expertise in these fields, it’s never too late to upskill yourself by taking courses and learning new skills. Set aside a budget each month to invest in yourself and become a skilled candidate for a wide range of career opportunities.