Are you looking for a job where you can make your own hours? There are plenty of lucrative opportunities in the modern economy that allow greater flexibility in the workplace. In the current dynamic job market, you can find flexible remote work options. Employers across industries are offering freelance jobs where you make your own hours with varying hourly rates.
This article highlights the best jobs for making your own hours. The flexible scheduling options are great if you need a change from a busy schedule or cannot commit to a nine-to-five job. Keep reading to find careers where you make your own schedule in an industry that suits you.
What Jobs Let You Make Your Own Hours?
Some examples of jobs where you work your own hours are full-time or part-time driver jobs, food delivery jobs, and customer service jobs. With jobs that let you choose your hours, you have the freedom to make your own schedule. You can choose when to log in and out of work and select shifts that suit your weekly schedule.
Some of the most common types of jobs where you can work on your own time involve contract work or freelance content creation. These types of jobs may offer full-time work or flexible hours and fixed deadlines. Below are a variety of high-paying jobs where you can work on your own hours and still be financially comfortable.
10 Highest-Paying Jobs for Making Your Own Hours
| Job Title | Average Salary | Top 10% Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Nurse | $100,704 | $150,000 |
| Project Manager | $94,500 | $159,140 |
| Consultant | $93,000 | $163,760 |
| Web Developer | $78,300 | $168,200 |
| Content Managers | $61,176 | $89,000 |
| Graphic Designers | $50,710 | $93,440 |
| Freelance Photographers* | $50,000 | $73,000 |
| Interpreters and Translators | $49,110 | $96,480 |
| Real Estate Agent | $48,770 | $176,080 |
| Massage Therapists | $46,910 | $79,150 |
| Fitness Trainers | $40,700 | $76,550 |
| Freelance Writers* | $39,305 | $78,000 |
| Passenger Vehicle Drivers | $37,540 | $72,750 |
| Childcare Workers | $27,490 | $37,710 |
| Dog Sitters* | $20,347 | $40,000 |
Best Jobs For Making Your Own Hours: A Closer Look
There is a huge variety of high-paying jobs where you can be quite successful while setting your own hours. You can become a rideshare driver, freelance writer, graphic designer, pet sitter, house sitter, massage therapist, or translator. Let’s look at some of the best jobs where you make your own hours in more detail.
Travel Nurse
Travel nurses are registered nurses from all kinds of medical backgrounds who take on temporary nursing positions as needed. They typically work with independent staffing agencies and get assigned to areas that require nursing staff. They travel across the country or even the world, depending on the assignment.
Travel nurses may not have the most flexible work schedules but they don’t have to work fixed shifts at a hospital. This affords certain flexibility that not every healthcare professional gets to enjoy. Some of the requirements to become a travel nurse include two years of nursing experience and relevant academic qualifications.
Project Manager
Project managers are excellent multitaskers. They lead the team, ensure deadlines are met, manage the cash flow, and more. They are accountable for seeing a project through. Project management is one of the best careers where you can make your own schedule because all of your communication and task delegations can be done using video conferencing tools.
There are multiple project management approaches available, each of which suits a specific type of project. Agile management, for example, sees execution in small sprints. This allows the project to change direction when necessary. Some of the most important skills you need to become a project manager are leadership, critical thinking, and time management.
Consultant
Consultants are experts in a specific subject matter who provide their insights, advice, and recommendations to a company or organization. There are many types of consultants working in various industries such as healthcare, data, and finance. As a consultant, you need to identify the challenges faced by your client and offer solutions that align with their business goals.
Consulting work can be done remotely, especially if you work independently. Because this line of work involves strategic communication, soft skills like creative thinking, time management, and problem-solving are highly valued by clients.
Web Developer
Web development is one of the best careers where you can make your own schedule. Although a majority of web development roles are salaried positions, freelance web developers can also earn a good income. They use their coding skills to develop and design dynamic websites. Some are responsible for the backend programming while others work on the user interface.
Freelance web developers have the opportunity to set their hourly rate, collaborate with a diverse group of clients, and work on projects that they are passionate about. To become a web developer, knowledge of programming skills like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is required.
Content Managers
Content managers oversee the overall content production for a platform. They collaborate with their creative staff and freelance workers to generate written, video, or audio content. Managers must direct the materials used and edit for appropriateness of tone, style, and subject matter. They often also add input on the layout and graphic presentation of the brand or website.
Content managers dictate the social media content strategy and make sure high-quality blog content is produced. They coordinate with freelance writers and editors to set schedules and deadlines and align content creation with strategic and business goals. They have a fairly flexible schedule but must make sure they meet deadlines.
Graphic Designers
Graphic designers create visuals and designs based on client briefs and requirements. They work on advertisements, magazine productions, brochures, and reports. They have a good eye for colors and layouts along with good communication and analytical skills to understand client requirements.
Graphic designers have knowledge of design techniques and use a variety of design elements like text, logos, images, and their properties to produce effective and creative designs. Graphic designers work independently or with design companies. They have flexible hours with workloads dependent on deadlines.
Freelance Photographers
Freelance photographers shoot pictures to sell to advertisers and content providers. They have knowledge of camera equipment and lighting techniques to film quality images. Digital design platforms and social media content creators are always in need of a constant stream of images to complement their web and social media content.
Networking is essential to the success of freelance photographers. Freelance photographers may keep regular hours, but shooting schedules often vary. Fieldwork is common and photographers must be available to work night and weekend events. Photographers must master skills in photo editing tools and build a portfolio to showcase their work.
Interpreters and Translators
An interpreter or language translator converts information from one language to another. Translators work in written language and must be fluent in both languages. There is a high demand across many industries for interpreters. Countless companies and government departments hire translators for a variety of services.
Interpreters work in settings like schools, courtrooms, and conference centers. They work as needed for a wide variety of contexts. Translators commonly work remotely under deadlines and tight schedules. They can have irregular hours and long hours depending on the project they have undertaken.
Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents facilitate buyers and sellers in their real estate transactions. They also share crucial information about a property with prospective buyers or renters, organize house showings, and represent their clients in legal negotiations. In most cases, real estate agents make money through commissions.
It is not uncommon for real estate agents to set up their own small businesses instead of working with a team. However, you may need to work with licensed real estate brokers first before venturing out on your own. To become a real estate agent, it is recommended that you research and fulfill the state requirements. It is also mandatory for you to pass a licensing exam.
Massage Therapists
Massage therapists help clients with chronic muscle pain, assist in healing after injuries, and also perform massages for general relaxation. They have expertise in using their hands, forearms, and elbows to massage the soft tissues of their clients. They need good physical strength and endurance to give massages.
Massage therapists often work out of their own homes and are self-employed. It is often a part-time job where they control their own schedules. They are also employed by businesses and wellness centers where they provide direct client care. For a career in massage therapy, you must receive some training to take care of clients with medical conditions and injuries.
Fitness Trainers
Fitness trainers host exercise activities individually or in groups. These activities can include cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and stretching sessions. During the job, they might assist in managing a front desk, signing up new members, consulting clients, giving tours of the facility, or maintaining equipment.
Fitness instructors generally work in fitness centers, but may sometimes work with clients in their homes as personal trainers. This is often a part-time job that may include nights, weekend hours, or holidays. Trainers may work at different gyms and conduct sessions and classes at times that accommodate their work schedules.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
Freelance Writers
Freelance writers produce editorial, advertising, marketing, and other written materials for a wide variety of clients. They must adjust content for different editors and jobs. In freelance work, writers often have to find their own assignments or pitch stories directly to previous clients. There are also freelance sites filled with freelance projects and assignments.
Writers might have formal education requirements, but content writing experience is the most common requirement in the freelance contract world. They typically work from a home office and spaces of their own choice and work on multiple assignments simultaneously. Freelance writers need to have solid organization, time management, and writing skills to balance their workload.
Passenger Vehicle Drivers
Passenger vehicle drivers transport people to their destination. Their work schedule varies depending on passengers and their destinations. Common examples are taxi drivers, ride-hailing drivers, school bus drivers, intercity bus drivers, and chauffeurs. With a valid driver’s license, you can earn a good income in this flexible job.
Childcare Workers
Childcare workers provide a variety of services to take care of children of different ages. They can work in childcare centers in teams to serve children’s needs. They might also take care of children during business working hours to support families working full-time.
Childcare workers must have the patience to deal with young children and they are often responsible for teaching them social skills. Some nannies work full-time or take part-time hourly contracts. They often work long or irregular hours, depending on the parents’ schedules.
Dog Sitters
Dog sitters are employed by families to take care of dogs on an as-needed basis. They typically feed and walk dogs while their owners are away from home. Their primary duties are following the owner’s directions. Common tasks include walking the dog, preparing food per instructions, providing medication, and monitoring the dog to ensure that no emergency health situations arise.
Companies That Let You Make Your Own Hours
If you are not interested in independent work, don’t worry because there are a lot of companies that let you set your own hours. Some have shifted to fully remote or hybrid working, while others allow a more flexible working arrangement. Below are the top five companies that allow you to choose your own hours.
- Apple. They offer different customer support and service jobs with flexible hours. You can work from home as a home advisor or become part of the customer support team with flexible hours.
- Colgate-Palmolive Company. This multinational consumer product company serves people in oral care, personal care, home care, and pet nutrition. They have accommodated many roles for employees with flexible working hours.
- LG Electronics North America. With the changing marketplace, LG has instituted a new flexible work arrangements policy allowing hybrid work schedules and flexible work hours.
- UnitedHealth Group. One of the largest healthcare companies in the US, UnitedHealth Group understands the value of flexible work. You can find remote opportunities at United Health Group as a billing representative, claims associate, account manager, or technical project manager.
- Target. This merchandise retail company offers flexible schedules for their employers and is now offering on-demand flexible hours during the holiday season.
Tips for Finding the Best Jobs For Making Your Own Hours
Some of the best jobs for making your own hours require excellent time management skills. As such, it is important to highlight this on your resume. You can increase your chances of landing a remote job by tailoring your portfolio to highlight your experience and expertise as needed. You also need to be very flexible if you want to find a job where you make your own hours.
Here’s how you can find a job when you can work remotely on your own schedule.
- Be Organized. Time management will be the most critical skill to ensure success. You should have your workload well-sorted so you can submit assignments on time and meet your deadlines. It will also help you to handle multiple assignments or employers at the same time.
- Be Motivated. Freelance gig workers need to stay motivated and positive to consistently get a stream of assignments. You will need to rigorously search and pursue opportunities. You have to be motivated and driven to succeed without supervision.
- Be Available. Since there are no fixed regular hours, ensure that you talk frequently with your employers or clients to keep track of work. It is your responsibility to be available for work and fulfill obligations on your own. Effective communication can be a critical skill for success as employers and clients will want to stay in touch with you as you complete assignments.
- Network. Flexibility often comes at the expense of job stability. You might end up working with different organizations and clients. This is an opportunity to establish as many contacts as possible to keep a steady stream of work.
- Be Adaptable. Recognize that flexibility goes both ways, so both employees and supervisors must be adaptable. Be open to accommodating organizations’ needs when possible.
Outlook for Careers Where You Make Your Own Schedule
There is a plethora of opportunities that accommodate flexible schedules. Some interesting careers where you can make your own schedule include hairdressing and hair styling. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for hairdressers, hair stylists, and barbers is projected to grow by 11 percent in the next decade.
Other careers where you can make your own schedule include tutoring, substitute teaching, design, customer service, and art. There are tons of opportunities that allow you to have a flexible schedule. You can be a sales representative for an insurance company, develop a graphic design portfolio, or take up additional freelance work in your free time.
The post-pandemic economy is more dynamic and the outlook for flexible work seems to be positive. There has been an increase in flexible job positions because companies have become accustomed to offering remote work that pays well. With a little research, you should be able to explore high-paying careers where you are allowed to set your own schedule.
Find Jobs With Freedom and Flexibility
In today’s world, it is possible for you to have a job with both freedom and flexibility. It may sound too good to be true but if you know where to look, there are a lot of money-making opportunities that might just be within your reach. If you are unsure about making a shift, consider freelancing on a part-time basis to earn some extra money.
Remember that while these careers have different sets of requirements, the number one key to landing a job where you make your own hours is excellent time management skills. You also need to have strong concentration skills to ensure all work can be done efficiently and timely.
Best Jobs for Making Your Own Hours FAQ
Jobs with flexible schedules require you to have good time management skills. You also need to be well-organized and have good communication skills to be successful. These traits will enable you to handle your workload and fulfill obligations to employers. You can take courses in social media marketing to get a job in digital marketing.
What are the advantages of jobs where you can work when you want?
The advantages of jobs where you can work when you want are the flexibility and freedom to have a work-life balance. You can boost productivity by working during your most productive hours. It is especially conducive to family or student life. If you manage your commitment well, you may even end up with some spare time that can be used to pursue other interests or hobbies.
What are the challenges you face when you make your own work schedule?
The biggest challenge in making your own work schedule is securing full-time positions or long-term contracts. You will often have to compete with others who will adjust their hours to better fit employer needs. Another difficult aspect of such a job is staying focused without supervision and having no set schedule.
What jobs can you work from home?
Some of the jobs that you can work from home include project manager, consultant, web developer, and writer. These jobs can be done fully remotely which saves you the hassle of commuting. You can easily use video conferencing tools and messaging apps to communicate, collaborate, and conduct meetings with your team or clients.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
