In a recent FlexJobs survey, respondents chose a flexible schedule as the second-most desirable work arrangement, after full-time telecommuting. That makes a lot of sense: most workers are juggling multiple priorities at home and at work. Being able to set their own work hours would go a long way toward providing work-life balance.
But, what does a flexible schedule mean, exactly? It depends. Some employers may allow you to set your own hours, even for full-time jobs. Others offer part-time work but the option to choose when to schedule your hours. Most of the time, you will be required to set a schedule in advance, so that your team knows when you’re available for collaboration. (A possible exception: some project-based freelance work.)
Still, the ability to manage your work schedule is rare, and worth a bit of effort on the planning front. If you’re interested in a job with a bit more freedom, FlexJobs’ list, 15 Flexible Jobs That Let You Set Your Own Hours, may lead you to your next gig.
If you’re thinking more generally about moving into a career that offers greater flexibility, some job titles from the list are of particular interest. Note that while these jobs often offer more flexible schedules, not every open opportunity will allow you to set your own hours.
1. Audio Transcription
FlexJobs’ listing is a full-time, work-at-home job that allows the worker to choose his or her own projects and hours. But even if you can’t score a gig with that level of flexibility, transcribers tend to have a fair amount of choice in their working hours. (A typical arrangement: the transcriber signs up with a company, lists their availability and then works when jobs come in.) People with this job obviously need top-notch typing, spelling and grammar skills.
Median Annual Salary: $28,997
2. Online Professor
Many schools are now offering some of their classes online, which means potential work-from-home opportunities for adjunct professors. If you have the requisite experience and are comfortable with technology, this could be a good fit.
Median Annual Salary: $30,052
3. Over-the-Phone Interpreter
This specific listing is for an experienced interpreter who speaks English and another language and can provide interpretation for doctors and nurses. (So, in other words, you’d need to know medical lingo in two languages, as well.)
Median Annual Salary: $40,145
4. Tutor
Teachers in search of a career change (or just a little extra cash) would do well to consider tutoring, which tends to be very flexible in terms of working hours. Thanks to technology, it’s often possible to do this job entirely from home, speaking with students via video conferencing.
Median Annual Salary: $35,623
5. Writer
Writing jobs come in all shapes and sizes, from full-time, corporate gigs to flexible, freelance work. FlexJobs’ listing is for a writer “with a strong understanding of the real estate industry,” and is a work-from-home gig.
Median Annual Salary: $48,378
Note: Median annual salaries are for the occupation as a whole, according to PayScale data. Pay will vary, depending on the job, candidate, location and hours worked.
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