Top flexible jobs for over 50s

Whether it’s the price of eggs, the promise of a holiday, or the drive to top up your retirement account, there are plenty of financial reasons to seek-out paid work. 

Yet finances are really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to working, especially for seniors and those returning to the workforce in their 50s.

Depending on the job, it also can provide a sense of purpose, help you form and maintain social connections, let you contribute to your local community, and keep you physically and mentally active, according to Age Concern. 

A high-stress, full-time job might not be the first choice for over 50s (it’s hardly ever the first choice for anyone, especially those who’ve done it before), which is why flexible and casual jobs can be such a fantastic option. 

So if you’re part of the 31% of working Kiwis over 50 looking to re-enter the workforce or attempt a career change, we’ve put together a selection of some of the best roles that almost anyone can do.      

Driver

If you have a car, a licence, and some free time up your sleeve, you may be eligible to be a driver for a food delivery service or ride-share service. 

These jobs are very much a ‘driver’ of the gig economy, and our own Working Seniors Report found that 24% of over 50s find the idea of working in the gig economy very or extremely appealing as they age. 

These services let you decide when you want to work and for how long (this was the number one reason why survey respondents said the gig economy was so appealing), so you can opt to work every day or just once a fortnight if that’s what suits you. Plus, you’ll be able to work in the comfort of your own vehicle and be presented with plenty of opportunities for social interactions and connections with the local community.

Online tutor 

As the baby boomer generation retires, employers are losing countless skill sets and an immense amount of knowledge. One study showed that 86% of hiring managers are concerned about this loss. 

In short, seniors have a lot of knowledge and skills. A lifetime’s worth, in fact. So how about sharing some of it and making some extra money? 

One flexible work option is to become an online tutor. There are international communities online that connect tutors and students all over the world, across a myriad of topics. You could teach Te Reo Māori, help a student improve their singing, talk someone through the basics of chemistry, or practically anything in between. 

This is a great option for anyone with specialty knowledge, a love of teaching, and a preference for working from home. 

Tour guide

Do you love meeting people, have a good memory for facts, and enjoy sharing your town or city? 

Tour guide jobs can be flexible and vary from wine tour drivers to scenic, food or history guides. And with our tourism market on the rise once again, there are all sorts of opportunities available. 

Head to any online job websites and type in ‘tour guide’ to find part-time and casual roles that come with their own training programs. Often, all you need is a great personality and passion for the job to get started. 

Pet sitter 

If you’ve always preferred the company of furred, feathered and finned friends over humans, pet sitting can be a fantastic casual job. 

Pet sitting websites allow you to set up a bio and apply for pet sitting jobs. You usually set your own rates (although it’s best to look at what others are charging for a good starting point) and get to spend your time interacting and playing with pets. 

In terms of requirements, the key priorities would be experience with animals and the ability to maintain good communication with owners through updates and photos. Additionally, you’ll need to have plenty of flexibility to fit these jobs around your lifestyle. 

According to our Working Seniors Report, employees over 50 are looking for control over their workload now more than ever. And, with plenty of casual opportunities available should you wish for a change, it’s nice to know you’ll have the opportunity to support yourself financially as you prepare for retirement.

Consider how the benefits of life insurance may also provide financial peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Head online to New Zealand Seniors Life Insurance to learn more.

12 Jul 2023