Part Time Jobs for Retirees

“Retirement jobs” – no, this is not an oxymoron. Many baby boomers and seniors are seeking out further employment after retirement. In particular, many are looking for part time jobs for retirees. Some seniors need extra income or medical insurance, others are looking for personal satisfaction in doing something they enjoy, and some are simply bored and want something to do after retiring. Times are changing, and many people are working well beyond the traditional age of retirement. Employers are now recognizing the hard work ethic and experience these seniors can bring to their company.

Part time jobs for retirees after retirement can do more than provide extra income to put towards that red sports car you have always wanted. These jobs for seniors provide personal satisfaction and enjoyment, friends and an opportunity to bond with others, and fulfill one’s need to contribute to the world. Here are some ideas for part-time jobs for seniors:

• Retail is great for part-time employment for seniors because it offers a flexible schedule, interaction with customers, and of course, extra income. Retail jobs may include cashier, greeter, stock room associate or even retail management positions. You may want to consider working for major retailers, or instead you might prefer a business where you can specialize in your area of expertise, such as a florist, sporting goods store or car dealership. Here are some of the best retail employers who are hiring jobs for seniors:
  • Home Depot
  • Borders Group
  • CVS/pharmacy
  • Walgreens
  • Staples
  • Target
  • Walmart
  • Verizon Wireless
  • AT&T Wireless
• Consulting is another part-time job for seniors that is stimulating and makes use of their wealth of knowledge and experience. Many mature professionals start their own business as independent consultants, finding clients through their past business relationships. Independent consulting or working for a small existing firm both allow for flexible hours and time off.
• Non-profit jobs for seniors are an excellent way to get involved in a fulfilling career that helps others. Many non-profit jobs are paid, and most organizations will be flexible and accommodating for an enthusiastic, senior worker. These non-profit part-time jobs for seniors will help you make a contribution to the world.
• Freelance work offers part-time employment for seniors in many fields, such as writing. Freelance writing as a part-time job for seniors allows you to work from home and at your own leisure. Check out Sologig for more information on freelance work to find jobs for seniors, or read the article “Seven Easy Steps to a Freelance Life”.
• Tour jobs may include giving tours at museums, historical monuments or local sight-seeing attractions in the community. These part-time jobs for seniors provide opportunities to learn, share knowledge with others and meet new people.
• Staying Where You Are is another option for retiring seniors. If you love your current job, tell your employer that you are around the age of retirement and ask if there is a way to reduce your hours and workload (and salary).
• For more ideas on part-time jobs for seniors, check out the article “Deferring Retirement? Best Part-Time Gigs for Baby Boomers” or “Today’s Best Part-Time Jobs”.

If part-time jobs for seniors aren’t enough for you, you may be more interested in a career change after retiring from your current position. PrimeCB is a great resource for the mature professional looking for a career change. The AARP puts out a yearly list of the best employers for workers over 50, based on recruiting practices, opportunities for training, education and career development, workplace accommodations, alternative work options (such as flexible job scheduling, job sharing and phased retirement), employee health and pension benefits and retiree benefits. Highlights from the AARP’s list of the “Best Employers for Workers Over 50″ include the following companies:

• Scripps Health
• Stanley Consultants
• Lee Memorial Health System
• Principal Financial Group
• Volkswagen of America
• John Deere

What if I am too old? You are never too old, unless you act like it. Think of yourself as an asset to the company, and showcase your experience and enthusiasm. If you do this, employers will be competing to get you in their door. If you are still worried that employers will not hire you because of your age, take some classes and do a lot of reading to stay up to date in your industry and the world in general. Mature job seekers may decide to only include more recent and relevant job experience in their resumes or avoid putting dates in the education section.

What you have that employers want:

• Experience – with years of professional experience, you have so much to offer; this experience is invaluable and is something that can only be gained with time, thus setting you apart from younger job seekers and recent college graduates
• Wisdom – in addition to professional experience, you are learned in the ways of the world; from decision-making to people skills, your wisdom is a huge asset to companies
• Commitment – senior employees are more likely to feel a sense of commitment and loyalty to the company; because of this, employers know that you are less likely to jump from one job to another in hopes of advancing you career – instead, you want to make the most out of the job you have

Factors you may want to consider when looking for part-time jobs for seniors:

• Less stress
• Flexible Hours
• Enjoyment
• Making a contribution to society
• An opportunity to get out of the house and meet new people

Whether you need extra income, want a part-time job that allows you to spend time with your family and travel, want to make a difference in the world, or are not quite ready to retire, there are many opportunities available to you in finding jobs for retirees. The best piece of advice to seniors looking for jobs is to do something you love. If you love your job, then it won’t even feel like work.