Jobs for seniors span a wide range of industries, offering flexibility, social engagement and opportunities to apply existing skills. Part-time or project-based jobs can help older adults stay active, supplement their retirement income or explore new interests. Many employers value the reliability and experience that older workers bring, and remote work has expanded options even further. From tutoring and tax preparation to pet sitting and creative ventures, there are plenty of ways for seniors to stay involved in the workforce.

A financial advisor can help you plan for retirement and build an income plan to meet your needs. Connect with an advisor today.

Jobs for Seniors to Consider

Many seniors choose to work in retirement, whether for extra income, social connection or a sense of purpose. The roles listed below offer part-time hours, remote work options and opportunities across different interests and skill levels.

1. Administrative and Office Support

Seniors with office experience often find roles like a receptionist, data entry clerk or office assistant a good fit. These jobs offer structured hours and climate-controlled environments, and they focus more on accuracy than physical activity. Employers include nonprofits, small businesses and local governments.

Where to find a job: Indeed.com, FlexJobs.com or listings on local municipal websites

2. Retail and Customer Service

Many older adults work as cashiers, greeters or customer service representatives. These part-time roles offer social interaction and sometimes employee discounts. While some standing is required, many employers offer seating or modified tasks.

Where to find a job: Snagajob.com and RetailJobsWeb.com list openings by region and employer

3. Tutoring

Tutoring suits seniors with a background in education or strong subject knowledge. Sessions may be in-person or remote, covering everything from test prep to adult education. Teacher aides and substitute roles may also be available locally.

Where to find a job: Wyzant.com, Tutor.com and local school district employment pages

4. Consulting and Freelance Work

Retired professionals may consult in finance, engineering or management. Freelance writing, editing and bookkeeping are also common. These roles allow for control over scheduling and remote flexibility.

Where to find a job: Upwork.com, LinkedIn.com and Toptal.com for high-skill freelance placements

5. Tax Preparer or Seasonal Accountant

Seniors with accounting or bookkeeping backgrounds often take on seasonal roles preparing taxes. These jobs typically run from January to April and may take place remotely or in an office. Companies like H&R Block and independent CPAs frequently hire temporary help.

Where to find a job: HRBlock.com, Intuit Careers and Accountingfly.com

6. Library Assistant or Bookstore Worker

These quiet, organized settings appeal to many seniors. Duties might include shelving, assisting customers or supporting events. Pay is modest but the environment is calm and community-focused.

Where to find a job: Local library system websites, LibraryJobline.org and regional bookstore chains like Barnes & Noble

7. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

Seniors who enjoy animals might take on dog walking, pet sitting or boarding pets at home. These roles allow for flexible scheduling and physical activity in moderation. Clients often prefer mature, reliable caregivers who treat pets like family.

Where to find a job: Rover.com, Care.com and local Facebook groups for pet care

8. Home Repair Services

Those with trade experience may take part-time work as handymen or home repair pros. Basic plumbing, electrical work, painting and light carpentry are always in demand, particularly when offered by someone who’s known and trusted in the community.

Where to find a job: TaskRabbit.com, Nextdoor.com or through local hardware stores’ bulletin boards

9. Notary Public

Becoming a notary offers flexible income for those comfortable handling documents. Some partner with legal or real estate offices; others work independently.

Where to find a job: Local courthouses or by offering services independently in your community

10. Driver or Courier

Driving jobs—including delivering groceries or medications or working for rideshare services—offer flexible hours and steady pay. Seniors with clean driving records may enjoy being out and about while getting paid.

Where to find a job: Uber, Lyft, Instacart.com and Shipt.com

11. Seasonal and Event Staffing

Event and holiday staffing bobs such as ushers or ticket takers offer variety without requiring long-term commitment.

Where to find a job: CoolWorks.com, EventStaffing.com and through local event venues or stadiums

12. Remote Customer Support

Call center work and online customer service roles are increasingly remote and available to those with basic computer skills. These jobs usually involve answering questions, assisting with orders or solving minor issues via phone, chat or email. Many employers provide training and supply the necessary equipment.

Where to find a job: Remote.co, WeWorkRemotely.com and Rat Race Rebellion

13. Tour Guide and Museum Docent

For those who enjoy history, art or meeting new people, becoming a tour guide or museum docent can be rewarding. Tour guides and docents usually speak to small groups, walk moderate distances and share knowledge with visitors.

Where to find a job: Local museums, visitor centers or VolunteerMatch.org for paid and volunteer openings that may turn into paid roles

How the Senior Workforce Is Changing

The 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances shows that senior household earnings have grown significantly over the past few decades. In 1992, the median income for households led by someone aged 65 to 74 was $36,100 (in 2022 dollars). By 2022, that figure had increased to $60,530. Similarly, for households headed by someone 75 or older, median income rose from $27,610 in 1992 to $49,070 in 2022.

This rise reflects broader shifts in the labor market. More older adults are staying in the workforce later in life, often in part-time or flexible roles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 27% of adults ages 65–74 and older were working in 2023, up from about 21.4% in 2023. Meanwhile, 8.3% of people 75 and older were working in 2023, compared to 5.8% in 20 years earlier. Longer lifespans, changes in retirement savings patterns and improved health have all contributed to this trend.

Seniors are also increasingly represented in professional, administrative and self-employed roles that allow for continued income without physically demanding work.

Bottom Line

Older adults have a growing number of ways to stay engaged in the workforce, whether through traditional employment, flexible gigs or self-directed projects. Changes in income trends, technology and employer practices now make it easier to find work that fits personal goals. For many, this stage of work is less about building a career and more about finding roles that fit their lifestyle.

Tips for Retirement Planning

• Social Security plays a pivotal role in the financial plans of most seniors. You become eligible at age 62, but you won’t receive your full retirement benefit if you file before your full retirement age (66 or 67). Get a sense of how much your benefit might be based on when you claim it by using SmartAsset’s free Social Security calculator.
• Retirement planning can be complex, but the process can provide peace of mind as you enter your golden years. That’s where a financial advisor can help. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

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