The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a shift toward flexible work hours and locations. Today, many companies continue to offer flexible jobs, giving employees more control over when and where they work.
In this article, we’ll share great examples of jobs with flexible hours across different industries—plus tips on how to land one.
What does “flexible jobs” even mean?
Jobs with flexible hours break away from the traditional 9-to-5 model, allowing employees to decide when—or sometimes where—they work. Instead of a fixed schedule, these roles offer greater autonomy over work hours, making them a popular choice for those looking to balance career and personal life.
However, not all flexible-hour jobs are the same—some offer complete freedom to set your schedule, while others provide structure with some flexibility. Here are the most common types:
- Flexible full-time jobs: Standard full-time positions where employees can shift their work hours within certain limits (e.g., starting between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m.)
- Part-time jobs with flexible hours: Jobs with reduced hours that allow employees to choose when they work
- Freelance and contract work: Project-based roles where you decide your schedule as long as deadlines are met
- Gig work: Short-term, on-demand jobs (e.g., rideshare driving or food delivery) that let you work when you want
- Compressed workweeks: Working the same number of hours in fewer days (e.g., four 10-hour shifts instead of five 8-hour shifts)
Pros and cons of jobs with flexible hours
Like any work arrangement, a job with flexible hours has advantages and potential drawbacks.
Pros
- Better work-life balance: Flexible schedule jobs offer more time for personal responsibilities, hobbies, or side jobs.
- Less commuting stress: Choosing off-peak hours can reduce travel time and costs. Extra points for the remote jobs with flexible hours.
- Increased productivity: Working during your most productive hours can lead to better performance.
Cons
- Income uncertainty: Some flexible jobs, like freelancing or gig work, may not provide a steady paycheck.
- Boundary challenges: Without set hours, separating work from personal time can be harder.
- Limited benefits: Having flexible hours (especially for freelance or gig work) may not include traditional benefits like health insurance or paid time off (PTO).
Read this next: What Is Workplace Flexibility? Pros, Cons, and Tips for Thriving in Flexible Working
30 careers with flexible hours to consider
If you're looking for jobs with flexible hours, you'll find opportunities in nearly every industry. Whether you want to work from home, set your own schedule, or balance multiple jobs, some careers offer more flexibility than others.
We've identified some of the best options with flexible working hours by industry, highlighting what makes them great and how much you might earn, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Business and finance
1. Virtual assistant
A virtual assistant provides administrative support to businesses, handling tasks like scheduling, email management, and data entry. Many virtual assistants work remotely and take on multiple clients, making it a great option for flexible remote jobs. Some charge hourly, while others set monthly retainer fees.
Average salary: Administrative assistants earn a median salary of $49,810 per year.
2. Freelance accountant/bookkeeper
Freelance accountants and bookkeepers help businesses with tax preparation, payroll, and financial reporting. Since their work is often deadline-driven, they can set their own hours and work remotely. Many freelance accountants charge clients on a per-project basis.
Average salary: Accountants and auditors earn a median salary of $90,780 per year.
3. Business consultant
Business consultants provide expert advice to companies, helping improve efficiency, strategy, or financial planning. Most consultants work on a project basis, allowing them to choose clients and set their own schedules.
Average salary: Management analysts—who perform similar work—earn a median salary of $115,530 per year.
4. Sales representative
Sales representatives sell products or services, frequently with flexible hours since success is based on meeting sales goals rather than working set shifts. Many reps work on commission, meaning their earnings depend on performance.
Average salary: Sales representatives in wholesale and manufacturing earn a median salary of $86,920 per year.
5. Financial advisor
Financial advisors help individuals and families manage money, build savings, and reduce debt. Many work independently, setting their own hours and conducting virtual appointments.
Average salary: While financial coaching salaries vary, personal financial advisors earn a median salary of $150,670 per year.
Writing and media
6. Freelance writer/editor
Freelance writers and editors create content for blogs, websites, books, and marketing materials. Since they work on a per-project basis, they can set their own schedules. Some writers charge per word, while others bill hourly or per assignment.
Average salary: The BLS reports that copywriters earn a median salary of $51,100 per year.
7. Content creator (YouTube, TikTok, blogging)
Content creators build online audiences through videos, blogs, and social media posts. Earnings come from ad revenue, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. Since content creators control their own posting schedules, it’s one of the most flexible work-from-home jobs.
Average salary: Self-employed media professionals have widely variable incomes, but successful creators can earn well over six figures per year.
8. Social media specialist
Social media managers craft social media strategies, create and schedule posts, engage with audiences, and analyze the performance of brands or businesses. Many work as freelancers or remotely, allowing for a flexible schedule.
Average salary: The BLS groups social media specialists with other types of public relations specialists—workers in this role earn a median salary of $77,720 per year.
9. Podcast producer
Podcast producers plan, record, and edit audio content, ensuring high-quality sound and engaging storytelling. They may also handle guest booking, script development, and distribution, depending on the project. Many producers freelance, choosing which projects to work on and setting their own deadlines.
Average salary: Producers earn a median salary of $82,510 per year.
10. Scriptwriter
Scriptwriters create scripts for TV shows, movies, YouTube videos, and podcasts, crafting compelling dialogue and storylines. They often collaborate with directors and producers but typically work independently, setting their own schedules to meet project deadlines. Since most scriptwriting jobs are freelance or contract-based, writers have significant flexibility in when and where they work.
Average salary: Screenwriters and playwrights earn a median salary of $87,590 per year.
Technology and IT
11. Web developer
Web developers are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining websites, ensuring functionality, user experience, and accessibility. They typically work with coding languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and more, to create dynamic web pages. Many developers enjoy the flexibility of remote work or freelance projects, which allows them to set their own schedules.
Average salary: The median salary for web developers is $95,570 per year.
12. Software engineer
Software engineers design and create software applications, systems, and tools that meet the needs of businesses or consumers. They analyze user needs and use programming languages to build and test these applications. Many companies offer remote work and flexible hours, allowing engineers to manage their time around project deadlines.
Average salary: The median salary for software engineers is $138,110 per year.
13. Cybersecurity consultant
Cybersecurity consultants evaluate the security of systems and data, offering solutions to prevent cyber-attacks and data breaches. They assess potential vulnerabilities and recommend security measures, including firewalls and encryption. Most consultants enjoy the benefit of remote work and often work on a project basis, allowing them to set flexible hours.
Average salary: Information security analysts earn a median salary of $124,740 per year.
14. Data analyst
Data analysts interpret and analyze large datasets to help businesses make informed decisions. They identify trends, create reports, and develop predictive models to guide strategy and operations. Many data analysts work in freelance or remote positions, where flexible hours are an option depending on project demands.
Average salary: Data scientists earn a median salary of $119,040 per year.
15. UX/UI designer
UX/UI designers focus on enhancing user satisfaction with digital products, designing intuitive interfaces, and improving user interactions. Their work involves understanding user needs and ensuring accessibility across platforms. Designers frequently have the flexibility to work remotely or on a freelance basis, allowing for more control over their schedules.
Average salary: These roles earn a median salary of $92,750 per year.
Healthcare and wellness
16. Telehealth nurse and doctor
Telehealth professionals provide remote healthcare services through virtual consultations, diagnosing and treating patients via digital platforms. Nurses and doctors can consult with patients from the comfort of their homes, offering flexible shifts to accommodate their schedules.
Average salary: Registered nurses earn a median salary of $94,480 per year, while physicians earn a median of $263,840 per year.
17. Personal trainer
Personal trainers and health coaches help clients achieve their fitness goals by designing personalized workout plans, offering nutritional guidance, and providing motivation. Many work independently or in gyms, with some offering virtual coaching sessions, allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling.
Average salary: iFtness trainers and instructors earn a median salary of $51,270 per year.
18. Mental health counselor (online therapy)
Mental health counselors provide emotional and psychological support to clients, helping them face mental health challenges through counseling. Many counselors now offer virtual therapy sessions, making it possible to enjoy flexible work-from-home jobs while setting their own schedules.
Average salary: The median salary for mental health counselors is $60,080 per year.
19. Massage therapist
Massage therapists use several techniques to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Many therapists operate as independent contractors, setting their own schedules and offering mobile services to clients.
Average salary: Massage therapists earn a median salary of $62,560 per year.
20. Nutritionist and dietitian
Nutritionists and dietitians provide expert advice on nutrition, developing meal plans to help clients achieve healthier lifestyles. They work in hospitals, clinics, or privately, offering flexible hours for consultations.
Average salary: Dietitians and nutritionists earn a median salary of $71,280 per year.
Education and tutoring
21. Online tutor
Online tutors help students of all ages improve their knowledge and skills in various subjects by providing personalized instruction through video conferencing and other digital tools, allowing tutors to work from home and set their own schedules.
Average salary: The median salary for tutors is $48,580 per year.
22. Adjunct professor
Adjunct professors prepare lesson plans and grade assignments and teach courses part-time at universities or through online programs. Many enjoy the flexibility to work from home and teach on their own time.
Average salary: Postsecondary teachers earn a median salary of $101,750 per year.
23. English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher
ESL teachers work with students who are non-native speakers to improve their English skills. With the rise of online education, many ESL teachers now work remotely, offering lessons to students from around the world. These roles often provide flexible hours, with teachers able to schedule classes based on their time zone and student availability.
Average salary: ESL instructors earn a median salary of $60,560 per year.
24. Curriculum developer
Curriculum developers design educational materials and programs for schools or online platforms. They create lesson plans, assessments, and other resources that align with educational standards. Many curriculum developers work on a freelance basis, providing them with flexible hours.
Average salary: Instructional coordinators earn a median salary of $77,200 per year.
25. Special education teacher
Special education teachers work with students who have physical, emotional, or learning disabilities, helping them to meet their academic goals through tailored instruction. These educators often have the flexibility to set their own schedules, whether they’re teaching in person or adapting their hours to meet the unique needs of their students.
Average salary: Special education teachers earn a median salary of $73,520 per year.
Trades and gig economy
26. Rideshare driver
Rideshare drivers use their personal vehicles to transport passengers, choosing their own hours and working as much or as little as they want. This gig economy role offers ultimate flexibility, allowing drivers to start or stop work whenever it fits into their schedule.
Average salary: The median annual income for rideshare drivers is $35,180, although earnings can vary based on location and hours worked.
27. Delivery driver
Delivery drivers work for food delivery services or grocery shopping platforms, providing on-demand deliveries to customers. Drivers typically have the flexibility to choose their own hours and decide when they want to work. This provides an opportunity for individuals to balance work with personal commitments.
Average salary: Delivery drivers earn a median salary of $39,590 per year.
28. Construction laborer
Construction workers like handymen and contractors handle a variety of maintenance and repair tasks for residential and commercial properties, from fixing plumbing to installing fixtures. Since most of their work is project-based, they can set their own schedules and work at their preferred times and locations.
Average salary: Construction laborers earn a median salary of $49,280 per year.
29. Freelance photographer
Freelance photographers capture images for a range of clients, including weddings, events, and product shoots, offering a creative and flexible career. As they’re often self-employed, they have the freedom to schedule shoots according to their availability, making it easier to balance work with personal life.
Average salary: Photographers earn a median salary of $53,380 per year.
30. Pet care provider
Pet care providers, such as dog walkers and pet sitters, offer essential services for pet owners, ensuring their animals receive care and attention while they’re away. These jobs provide flexibility, as workers can set their own hours based on client needs and their personal schedules.
Average salary: Animal caretakers earn a median salary of $33,530 per year, with pay varying depending on services offered and location.
Tips for landing a flexible job
Landing a flexible job isn’t all that different from landing a traditional 9-to-5—but a few tweaks in your approach can help position you as someone who thrives in a more adaptable work environment.
Personalize your resume for flexible jobs
Tailor your resume to reflect your suitability for flexible roles. Include keywords like “remote-friendly,” “self-motivated,” or “independent worker” to show you’re ready for the responsibility of managing your own hours.
Highlight any previous experience working remotely or managing projects with flexible schedules—this can help demonstrate that you’re capable of working autonomously and staying productive without constant supervision.
Read this next: How to Tailor Your Resume for Remote Jobs
Negotiate flexible work arrangements
Understand employers’ needs and align them with your own. Be prepared to show how offering flexible hours will benefit both you and the company, whether it’s by increasing productivity or reducing overhead costs. Have a clear proposal in mind, and be open to compromise, accepting, for example, a hybrid schedule or adjusting your hours to accommodate team needs.
Read this next: 5 Steps to Asking for the Perfect Flexible Schedule