The best part-time 9 to 5 jobs with high wages include customer service representatives, bank tellers, warehouse technicians, fitness instructors, delivery drivers, and more.
Many companies offer part-time jobs for people of varying educational backgrounds. According to the 2022 Census, 37.7% of people had a bachelor’s degree or higher.1 Whether you have a master’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or a high school diploma, good part-time jobs are available for all skill levels.
Check out these 9 awesome part-time job opportunities and see which is best for you!
Part-Time Jobs That Pay Well
No matter if you’re still working on your high school diploma, or working on your master’s degree, having a part-time job with a decent median hourly wage can be a great help to both your career and your bank account.
Customer Service Representatives
A customer service representative is perhaps one of the most versatile part-time jobs you can find, and you do not need a bachelor’s degree. Virtually all companies selling products need customer service representatives regardless of the subject. Job duties for a part-time customer service rep include answering phone calls from customers with questions or concerns regarding their purchases, dealing with in-person customer returns, and other tasks related to customer service.
Making about $13.48 per hour, the average salary for a customer service rep is approximately $14,019.20 per year when working about 20 hours a week.
Bank Teller
Another accessible part-time employment position is a bank teller. Responsible for helping customers with bank deposits and other financial services provided by the bank, bank tellers typically make a decent amount with an hourly rate of about $12.82 per hour. That comes out to an average salary of $13,332.80 a year if you work at least 20 hours a week.
Furthermore, nothing more than a high school diploma is generally required to be a bank teller. Suppose you’re looking for a flexible part-time job without a bachelor’s degree. In that case, a bank teller is definitely something to consider.
Warehouse Technician
Warehouses all over the U.S. are always looking for part-time workers. The job description usually includes forklift driving and product sorting. A typical warehouse technician makes about $15.42 per hour, an average salary of $16,036.80 for the year when working approximately 20 hours a week. While a bachelor’s degree is not typically required, a background in logistics management can help advance your career.
Fitness Instructor
Another great part-time position if you’re looking to make minimum wage is a fitness instructor. Perfect for a college student or even a high schooler, being a fitness teacher or instructor can be a fantastic way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. At the same time, you earn a bit of extra cash.
Job duties for a fitness instructor can be quite physically demanding since you are essentially working out multiple times a day. So, be prepared for a high activity level if you go with this part-time position.
Massage Therapist
If you do not have a degree but don’t mind a job requiring formal training, you may want to look into being a massage therapist. The job description can be vague, but massage therapists typically work with clients and massage certain body parts depending on their muscle problems or issues. The average pay for massage therapists also ranges depending on experience, so the longer you do and keep the job, the more you will earn!
Delivery Driver
Delivery drivers are another kind of job you can work part-time, no matter your skill level. All you really need is a driver’s license and a vehicle! Job duties for delivery drivers include delivering things like food, mail, flowers, and other items people may want conveniently delivered to their homes. While a delivery driver position doesn’t usually require a high school diploma, you must have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
Self Employed Freelance Work
Being a freelance worker is another position you can do from home, on your own time. Companies looking to hire freelance work are usually looking for graphic designers or temporary freelance writers, giving you the freedom to create your own schedule, hours, and even your office setting.
However, payment for freelance work does not usually include taxes. So, if you choose to work freelance, be wary when tax season comes that you may have to pay a bit more money to the government.
Virtual Assistant
Suppose you’re looking for part-time positions where you don’t have to go to a physical location. In that case, you may consider being a virtual assistant. Virtual assistants have job duties that include taking phone calls, setting up meetings or appointments, organizing spreadsheets or data, and any other services that can be taken care of virtually.
Being an assistant virtually is another job where the average hourly pay can vary depending on experience, availability, and other qualifying factors determined by whoever is hiring. Since a virtual assistant position is so flexible regarding earnings, if you work hard, you may just find yourself with money left over after all monthly expenses are paid!
Physical Therapist Assistant or Dental Hygienist
Physical therapists and dentists often need assistance in their daily activities and interactions with their client base. Remember that a part-time position like an assistant for an occupational therapist or dentist usually requires an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree. But it’s a great stepping stone if you are looking for a career in the medical industry.
Strategies for Job Seekers
If you are looking for a part-time job, consider using the following strategies to help you nail a job interview and get the best possible employment offer.
- Research and Understand Market Trends — Regularly review industry reports and data to understand which sectors are thriving. This knowledge can guide your job search and career development efforts.
- Enhance Your Skill Set — In a market where technology and innovation are key, upskilling in areas like data analysis and digital marketing can make you a more attractive candidate for good-paying roles.
- Network Effectively — Networking remains a powerful tool. Attend industry seminars, join professional groups, and connect with peers and mentors in your field. Often, opportunities come from connections made through networking.
- Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter — Customize your application materials for each job description. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description and the company’s needs.
- Prepare for Interviews — Research the company and practice your responses to common interview questions. Demonstrating your knowledge about the company and the role shows your commitment and suitability.
- Negotiate Your Salary — Don’t shy away from negotiating your salary. Use online data to understand the median annual wage for the role you’re applying for and use this information to negotiate a fair salary.
Transitioning to a Full-Time Job
Making the leap from part-time or lower-paying work to a full-time, well-compensated position can be a big step. Here’s how to make that transition smoother:
Building Relevant Experience
Even in part-time roles, look for opportunities to gain skills and experience relevant to your desired full-time job. This can make you a more attractive candidate when applying for higher-paying positions.
Networking and Mentorship
Connect with professionals in your desired field. They can offer advice, mentorship, and potentially alert you to job openings.
Updating Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile reflect your current skills and experiences. Highlight any relevant projects or roles, even if they were part-time or volunteer work.
Preparing for the Transition
Transitioning to a full-time role can be a significant change, especially in terms of work-life balance. Prepare yourself mentally and logistically for this shift.
The Impact of Location on Job Opportunities
Where you live can significantly influence your job prospects and potential earnings. Some cities and regions are hotspots for certain industries, offering more opportunities and potentially higher salaries.
Certain cities might offer more lucrative opportunities if you’re in a field like tech or finance. For example, tech hubs like Silicon Valley are renowned for lucrative engineering and software development jobs. However, you should also consider the cost of living. A higher salary in one city might not go as far in another due to the cost of living. When considering a job offer, factor in housing costs, transportation, and other living expenses.
Keep in mind that with a remote job, your location might not be as limiting as it once was. A remote job can be a great option if you prefer a lower cost of living area or need more flexibility.
Finding the Right Job for You
Embarking on a job search, especially for those with a bachelor’s degree or higher, can be both exciting and daunting. The key to finding the right job is to look for a role that meets your financial needs and aligns with your career aspirations and skills.
| Step | Description | Tips | What to Avoid | Tools/Resources |
| Self-Assessment | Evaluate your skills, interests, and career goals. | – Identify your strengths and weaknesses – Consider your passions and interests | – Overlooking personal preferences – Ignoring long-term goals | – Career assessment tests – Personal reflection |
| Research Potential Careers | Explore industries and roles that align with your assessment. | – Look into industry growth trends – Understand job requirements and future prospects | – Narrowing options too quickly – Relying on outdated information | – Online job portals – Industry reports |
| Upgrade Skills and Education | Acquire necessary qualifications and skills. | – Pursue relevant courses or certifications – Attend workshops and seminars | – Investing in irrelevant qualifications – Underestimating the value of continuous learning | – Online courses – Educational institutions |
| Prepare Your Resume and Online Profile | Create or update your resume and professional online profiles. | – Tailor your resume to each job – Highlight key achievements and skills | – Using a generic resume for all applications – Neglecting online presence | – Resume building tools |
| Network | Build and engage with professional contacts. | – Attend networking events – Connect with industry professionals on social media | – Focusing only on immediate job opportunities – Not following up on connections | – Professional networking events – Social media platforms |
| Apply for Jobs | Submit applications to suitable job openings. | – Customize cover letters – Apply to a mix of reach and safety positions | – Applying only to ‘dream jobs’ – Not following application instructions | – Job search websites – Company career pages |
| Prepare for Interviews | Get ready for job interviews. | – Practice common interview questions – Research the company and role | – Neglecting interview preparation – Not asking questions in interviews | – Mock interviews – Company research |
| Evaluate Offers and Negotiate | Assess job offers and negotiate terms. | – Consider the entire compensation package – Negotiate salary and benefits | – Accepting the first offer without consideration – Not negotiating out of fear | – Salary research tools – Negotiation strategies |
| Continuous Learning and Growth | Keep learning and seek growth opportunities. | – Seek feedback and mentorship – Look for advancement opportunities | – Complacency in current role – Ignoring professional development | – Professional development courses – Mentorship programs |
Advancing in Your Career
Once you’ve secured a job, think about how you can grow and advance in your career. Here are some steps you can take if you want to keep advancing in your career.
- Seeking Opportunities for Growth — Look for roles within your organization that offer the chance to learn new skills or take on more responsibility. This could mean a higher median annual salary and more job satisfaction.
- Continuous Learning — The job market is constantly evolving, especially in tech-heavy fields like computer engineering. Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in your field. Consider additional certifications or courses that can enhance your skills.
- Building a Strong Professional Network — A professional social network can provide mentorship opportunities, industry insights, and potential leads for future career advancements.
Navigating the Current Job Market
In today’s dynamic job market, staying informed about the latest trends is crucial. Market data shows that the technology, healthcare, and finance industries are rapidly growing, offering numerous high-salary opportunities. Keeping an eye on job market reports can provide valuable insights into which sectors are expanding and what skills are in high demand.
But staying updated with financial news is not just about stock markets and economies; it’s also about understanding which industries are growing and what new job roles are emerging. This information can be crucial when choosing a career path or considering a job change.
Loan Options for Financial Emergencies
Looking for a bit of extra cash? Even if you have a full-time job, falling behind on bills, payments, and other financial obligations is easy. Thankfully, when you need money fast, plenty of options are available to you.
Here are some quick options for people in need of extra funds:
Payday Loans
Payday loans are short-term loans that typically provide up to a few hundred dollars. These loans are popular because good credit is not required to qualify. But unfortunately, many people end up working with a predatory lender that has extremely high interest rates. Most financial experts advise against using a payday loan unless absolutely necessary.
Credit Card Cash Advances
Many credit card companies allow borrowers to use their credit cards to withdraw cash. A credit card advance is usually a small percentage of your total credit limit. But while useful, these cash advance loans can be pricey. The cash advance APR is generally higher than the standard purchasing APR, and you may also have to pay a cash advance fee.
Personal Loans
A personal loan is an installment loan that can provide small or large loan amounts. The qualification requirements vary by lender, but most lenders offer flexibility. The money you borrow is paid back over the course of a few months or years.
Home Equity Loans
A home equity loan is a secured loan that uses the homeowner’s home as collateral. In order to qualify, the borrower must have sufficient equity in the home and get a home appraisal. Borrowers could get a lot of money, but the approval process can take several weeks. In addition, using collateral is risky because you risk losing your home if you fall behind on loan payments.
FAQs About 9 to 5 Jobs
Many high-salary jobs are accessible with a high school diploma, especially those offering on-the-job training. For instance, certain trade jobs or roles in the service industry can provide competitive salaries without requiring a bachelor’s degree.
Absolutely! Many sectors, including some manufacturing and technical roles, offer jobs with extensive on-the-job training, allowing you to earn while you learn.
Individuals with a bachelor’s degree have a wide range of good-paying job options. Fields like engineering, business administration, and healthcare often have roles with attractive salaries and growth potential.
Holding a master’s degree can significantly enhance your eligibility for advanced, high-paying jobs. It opens doors to senior roles in various fields, including academia, research, and specialized industries.
Yes, software engineering is a lucrative field for those with a college degree. It offers a blend of high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for innovation, especially in cutting-edge technology sectors.
It’s important to review online data such as industry growth trends, median annual wages, and demand for specific roles. Financial and job market reports can be great resources.
Many entry-level positions in fields like finance, technology, and healthcare can lead to high-paying roles. Look for jobs that offer growth potential and the opportunity to gain valuable experience.
Certainly! While ‘low stress’ is subjective, there are high-paying jobs known for better working conditions. Roles in certain tech companies, research institutions, and remote work opportunities often fit this description.
Jobs requiring a doctoral degree, such as in medical school faculties or high-level research positions, often have a higher median annual wage, reflecting the advanced level of expertise and education required. For example, the median annual wage for astronomers who monitor space debris is $128,330.2
A job description for good-paying roles should be comprehensive, outlining specific responsibilities, required qualifications, and any special skills the job requires. This clarity helps candidates understand if they’re a good fit.
Good-paying jobs in the medical field often require extensive education, like a medical school degree, and offer a range of opportunities from clinical practice to research. The commitment is significant, but so is the potential for a rewarding career.
A Summary From CreditNinja on High Paying Jobs
There are numerous jobs out there that pay very well. No matter where your interests lie, there is a career path for you that makes living on one income possible.
CreditNinja knows that you may have a lot of financial questions, that’s why we offer free resources on our website. You can learn how to explain bad credit to a potential employer, which jobs pay 100k a year without a degree, and how you can start budgeting with irregular income!
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