21 Part-Time Jobs That Pay Well

People pursue part-time work for many reasons. You may want to earn additional income, continue your education, care for family members, explore a new industry or gradually transition into retirement.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies people who usually work fewer than 35 hours per week as part-time workers for statistical purposes. This is not a legal definition, and employers may establish different schedules or classifications. 

The rates below are national averages or occupational medians rather than guaranteed part-time wages. Location, experience, schedule, employment status and demand can all affect compensation.

21 High-Paying Part-Time Jobs

1. Personal Shopper

Average pay: $15.27 per hour

Personal shoppers select products for customers based on their requests, preferences and budgets. Some work in stores, while others accept orders through shopping or delivery platforms.

A high school diploma may be preferred. Product knowledge, communication and time management can help personal shoppers provide a reliable service and develop repeat customers.

2. Receptionist

Average pay: $16.21 per hour

Receptionists answer calls, welcome visitors, manage appointments and provide administrative support. Part-time opportunities are available in offices, clinics, salons, hotels and community organizations.

Most positions prefer a high school diploma. Employers value professional communication, organization and experience with office software.

3. Warehouse Worker

Average pay: $16.66 per hour

Warehouse workers receive deliveries, organize inventory, pick orders and prepare products for shipment. Evening, overnight and weekend schedules may create part-time opportunities.

The work can involve standing and lifting for extended periods. Some positions require employees to operate pallet jacks, scanners or other warehouse equipment.

4. Bank Teller

Average pay: $16.93 per hour

Bank tellers help customers complete deposits, withdrawals and other financial transactions. They may also answer account questions and explain available banking services.

A high school diploma and basic math skills are commonly required. Because tellers handle money and personal information, accuracy and trustworthiness are essential.

5. Security Officer

Average pay: $17.03 per hour

Security officers monitor properties, check entrances, observe security cameras and document incidents. Part-time shifts may be available during evenings, nights and special events.

Requirements vary by employer and location. Candidates may need a clean background check, driver’s license or security credential.

6. Customer Service Representative

Average pay: $18.08 per hour

Customer service representatives answer questions, resolve complaints and help customers use products or services. Communication may take place by phone, email, live chat or social media.

Many employers provide product and system training. Part-time and remote opportunities may be available, particularly during peak service hours.

7. Delivery Driver

Average pay: $18.79 per hour

Delivery drivers transport food, packages, groceries or other goods to customers. They may work directly for a company or use an app to select their own working hours.

Drivers typically need a valid license, reliable transportation and an acceptable driving record. Fuel, maintenance and insurance costs can affect take-home earnings for independent contractors.

8. Administrative Assistant

Average pay: $18.99 per hour

Administrative assistants coordinate schedules, prepare documents, answer messages and support daily office operations. Small companies may hire someone part time when they do not need full-time administrative coverage.

A high school diploma is sufficient for many positions. Familiarity with spreadsheets, calendars and document software can improve employment prospects.

9. Mail Carrier

Average pay: $19.58 per hour

Mail carriers sort and deliver letters and packages along an assigned route. Seasonal and temporary positions may provide part-time or variable schedules.

Candidates typically need a high school diploma and may need to pass an assessment, background check and driving-record review.

10. Construction Worker

Average pay: $19.59 per hour

Construction workers prepare job sites, move materials, use tools and assist skilled tradespeople. Part-time opportunities may occur on short-term, seasonal or weekend projects.

The work requires physical stamina and strong safety awareness. Additional training can help workers qualify to operate specialized equipment or enter a trade.

11. Phlebotomist

Average pay: $19.64 per hour

Phlebotomists draw blood, label samples and prepare specimens for laboratory testing. Hospitals, clinics, blood donation centers and diagnostic laboratories may offer part-time shifts.

Training and certification requirements vary by state and employer. Phlebotomists need accuracy, hygiene awareness and the ability to help nervous patients feel comfortable.

12. Brand Ambassador

Average pay: $19.93 per hour

Brand ambassadors represent companies at stores, events and public locations. They may demonstrate products, distribute samples, answer questions and collect customer information.

These roles often use short shifts during busy periods. Communication skills, energy and familiarity with the product can help candidates succeed.

13. Childcare Provider

Average pay: $21.25 per hour

Childcare providers supervise children, prepare meals, organize activities and help with routines or homework. Some families need care only during afternoons, evenings or weekends.

Experience caring for children is normally expected. Families may also request references, background checks, first-aid certification and reliable transportation.

14. Bookkeeper

Average pay: $21.82 per hour

Bookkeepers record transactions, reconcile accounts, prepare invoices and maintain financial records. Small businesses may hire part-time bookkeepers or use independent professionals.

Some employers prefer accounting education, but practical knowledge of bookkeeping software and financial processes may be sufficient for other positions.

15. Personal Driver

Average pay: $22.01 per hour

Personal drivers transport individuals to appointments, airports, events and other destinations. They may work for private clients, transportation services or organizations.

A valid license, clean driving history and reliable vehicle may be required. Some areas or employers require additional commercial or chauffeur credentials.

16. Freelancer

Average pay: $22.14 per hour

Freelancers provide services such as writing, design, photography, programming, translation or consulting. They can often control their workload and schedule.

Earnings vary considerably by specialty and experience. Freelancers also spend time finding clients, preparing proposals, managing projects and collecting payments.

17. Tutor

Average pay: $23.69 per hour

Tutors help students improve their understanding of academic subjects, prepare for exams or develop professional skills. Sessions may take place in person or online.

Tutors need strong subject knowledge and the ability to explain concepts clearly. Some clients or organizations may require a degree, teaching experience or background check.

18. Real Estate Agent

Average pay: $41.79 per hour

Real estate agents help clients buy, sell and rent properties. They prepare listings, arrange viewings, market properties and support negotiations.

Agents must meet their state’s licensing requirements. The work offers schedule flexibility, but compensation is often commission-based and income can be inconsistent.

19. Registered Nurse

Occupational median pay: $45 per hour

Registered nurses assess patients, administer treatments, maintain records and coordinate care. Hospitals, clinics, schools and home-health providers may offer part-time or per-diem schedules.

RNs must complete an approved nursing program and obtain a state license. The BLS reports a May 2024 occupational median of $45 per hour, although actual part-time rates differ by specialty, shift and location. BLS: Registered Nurses

20. Occupational Therapist

Average pay: $49.17 per hour

Occupational therapists help patients develop or recover skills needed for work and daily life. They evaluate patients, create treatment plans and document progress.

The occupation typically requires a master’s degree and state license. Part-time opportunities may be available in schools, care facilities, hospitals and private practices.

21. Speech-Language Pathologist

Average pay: $50.07 per hour

Speech-language pathologists assess and treat communication and swallowing disorders. They may work in schools, healthcare facilities or private practices.

Candidates typically need a master’s degree and state license. Part-time work is relatively common, particularly in educational and clinical settings.

Benefits of Working Part Time

Part-time employment can offer several advantages.

Greater schedule flexibility

A shorter schedule may leave more time for education, family responsibilities, another job or personal interests.

Additional income

Part-time work can supplement full-time employment or help you save for a specific financial goal.

An opportunity to explore a career

Working part time allows you to learn about an industry before committing to a full-time career change.

Professional experience

Students and new graduates can develop practical skills, build references and expand their professional networks.

Reduced transition into retirement

Experienced professionals may use part-time work to remain active while gradually reducing their working hours.

Potential Disadvantages of Part-Time Work

Before accepting a position, consider the possible limitations.

Fewer employee benefits

Some part-time employees do not qualify for the same health insurance, paid leave or retirement benefits as full-time workers.

Inconsistent hours

Schedules may change based on customer demand, staffing or seasonality. This can make monthly income less predictable.

Limited advancement

Some employers reserve leadership and development opportunities for full-time employees.

Contractor expenses

Freelancers and app-based workers may need to pay for equipment, software, transportation, insurance and self-employment taxes.

How To Choose a Part-Time Job

Consider the following factors when comparing opportunities:

• Minimum and maximum weekly hours
• Required availability
• Hourly pay or commission structure
• Employee or independent-contractor classification
• Benefits and paid leave
• Transportation and equipment expenses
• Remote-work availability
• Opportunities for advancement
• Training and certification requirements
• Compatibility with your primary responsibilities

Ask the employer for a realistic description of the schedule before accepting an offer. A job described as flexible may still require availability during specific evenings or weekends.

Present Your Skills Professionally With Dokie

Part-time applicants may need to demonstrate their experience through portfolios, case studies or interview presentations. Dokie can turn written notes, documents and project materials into structured presentations with professional layouts.

Job seekers can use Dokie to create project portfolios, career summaries and interview decks, while HR teams can prepare part-time employee onboarding and training materials. Finished presentations can be edited and exported as PowerPoint files.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours are considered part time?

The BLS uses fewer than 35 hours per week for statistical purposes, but this is not a legal definition. Employers can use different thresholds when classifying employees.

Do part-time employees receive benefits?

Some employers offer health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave or discounts to part-time employees, while others do not. Review the complete compensation package before accepting a position.

Can a professional job be part time?

Yes. Healthcare, accounting, consulting, education and creative roles may offer part-time, contract or per-diem arrangements.

How can I find well-paid part-time work?

Search for part-time, contract, per-diem, seasonal and freelance positions. You can also contact employers offering full-time roles to ask whether they would consider a reduced schedule.