Finding a job after age 65 can be a great way to stay active, maintain a sense of purpose, and earn extra income. From roles in customer service to positions in education, the following careers offer flexibility, job satisfaction, and often a welcoming environment for older adults. If you’re considering going back to work or changing fields, these 15 in-demand jobs can provide meaningful opportunities to apply your experience and skills in a way that works for you.
1. Health Services
With nearly 1.6 million seniors working in healthcare and social assistance roles in 2023, this field offers a broad range of opportunities, especially if you’re interested in helping others. From nursing and medical assistants to home health aides, many roles allow for part-time or flexible hours. Registered nurses, for instance, can earn a median salary of around $81,220 per year, while home health aides provide essential care on a schedule that may suit seniors well.
2. Wholesale and Retail Trade
Retail positions are popular for seniors because of their flexible hours and the opportunity to interact with customers. In 2023, over 1.5 million seniors worked in this industry. Whether at a grocery store, a clothing shop, or a small business, retail work can be a social, low-stress job with options for part-time work. The median salary for retail salespeople is approximately $30,600 annually, and roles in this sector are often easy to find locally.
3. Professional and Business Services
Seniors with administrative skills or experience in business services may find fulfilling work in professional environments. These roles often include tasks like record-keeping, scheduling, and customer support. In 2023, nearly 1.5 million seniors were employed in this sector. Administrative assistants can earn a median salary of around $41,000, and the work can be both rewarding and adaptable to different schedules.
4. Education
If you enjoy teaching and helping others, working in education might be a good fit. In 2023, there were 935,000 older workers in this field. Opportunities include substitute teaching, tutoring, and administrative support. Elementary and middle school teachers can earn an average salary of $70,950, though pay varies based on experience and education. Many schools and tutoring centers offer training, so even if your background isn’t in education, there may be pathways to develop the necessary skills.
5. Manufacturing
Manufacturing roles are ideal if you enjoy hands-on work and live near industrial areas. In 2023, around 845,000 seniors worked in manufacturing jobs, often as fabricators or machine operators. Fabricators, who assemble products and parts, earn an average salary of $43,470. Manufacturing work can be physically engaging, so it’s a good option if you’re looking for a more active role.
6. Construction
Seniors accounted for around 642,000 construction jobs in 2023. If you have a background in construction or enjoy physical work, part-time roles in this sector might be available. Construction workers earn a median salary of $40,750 annually. For those needing flexibility, many construction companies offer part-time or seasonal work.
7. Transportation
If you enjoy driving and spending time on the road, transportation roles could be a good option. In 2023, 522,000 seniors worked in transportation. Jobs include delivery drivers, shuttle drivers, or even school bus drivers, with delivery drivers earning an average of $18 per hour. Many companies allow drivers to choose their schedules, making this an appealing choice for seniors.
8. Finance and Insurance
Finance and insurance roles suit those with a background in banking, accounting, or customer service. In 2023, over 408,000 seniors worked in finance or insurance roles, often in part-time capacities or remote positions. Financial specialists earn about $39 an hour, and work can range from customer service to clerical roles, often allowing for a balance between office time and remote work.
9. Real Estate
Real estate roles can be ideal if you enjoy interacting with people and have a knack for sales. In 2023, 382,000 seniors were working in this field. Real estate agents can earn a median salary of $69,610, and many enjoy the independence of managing their own schedules. If you prefer a team setting, local real estate offices often look for support staff to assist with clerical work and customer service.
10. Hospitality
Hospitality jobs are popular for seniors who enjoy working in service roles. In 2023, about 377,000 older adults worked in accommodation and food services. Positions like hotel front desk staff, restaurant hosts, or resort attendants are often available part-time. Hotel desk clerks, for instance, earn an average of $15 per hour. The hospitality field is perfect for those who enjoy interacting with guests and want to stay active.
11. Leisure and Recreation
Leisure and recreation roles are ideal for those who love art, history, or entertainment. In 2023, around 325,000 seniors were working in this industry. Positions include ushers, ticket takers, or guides at theaters, museums, and recreation centers. The pay for these roles is typically around $14 per hour, and many venues offer perks like free event access.
12. Land-Related Work
Land-related jobs, especially in agriculture or landscaping, can be rewarding for those who enjoy outdoor work. In 2023, over 202,000 seniors were employed in agriculture or crop production. Agricultural workers earn about $17 per hour. This role could be a relaxing change if you previously worked in an office setting and are looking to spend time outdoors.
13. Information and Media
Information and media jobs are great if you have experience in writing, editing, or content creation. In 2023, around 162,000 seniors worked in this industry. Opportunities include writing, editing, or working in libraries. Writers and editors can earn an average of $37 per hour, and many jobs can be done remotely, making this a flexible choice for seniors who prefer working from home.
14. Animal Care
If you love animals, working in animal care might be perfect. In 2023, approximately 159,000 seniors were employed in animal care roles, including positions at veterinary offices, animal shelters, and pet grooming facilities. Animal care workers earn about $18 per hour, and many organizations provide on-the-job training.
15. Utilities and Maintenance
Utilities and maintenance jobs can be a good fit for seniors who enjoy hands-on work and are skilled in home repair. In 2023, 59,000 seniors worked in this sector. Positions include roles in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration, with median pay around $29 per hour. Many utility and maintenance jobs offer flexible hours, allowing for part-time or seasonal work.
Our Thoughts
Working after 65 can be an enriching experience, offering the chance to stay active, contribute your expertise, and meet new people. Whether you’re seeking a career change or a flexible role, these industries provide a wide range of options to fit different skills, interests, and lifestyles. Exploring jobs in fields you’re passionate about can make the transition into this stage of life more fulfilling and enjoyable. So if you’re considering re-entering the workforce or shifting to a different path, these in-demand careers may provide just the right fit.
