16 Best Part-time Jobs That Pay Well

The number of part-time job seekers has been on the rise of late because more people are looking for a better work-life balance, away from hectic schedules. Such jobs offer many benefits, whether you are a college student, a retiree looking to earn extra money, or a person looking to supplement income. Unlike before, part-time jobs don’t mean a dead-end career, as many offer reasonable pay. Check out 16 high-paying part-time career options here.
Dental hygienist
With an average hourly wage of $37.06, working as a dental hygienist can be a low-stress part-time job. It generally requires cleaning patients’ teeth and removing tartar, stains, and plaque before the dentist performs a check-up. However, you will require at least an associate degree to secure this job.
Bartender
If you’re open to working in the evenings and over the weekends, a bartender’s role is for you. It offers an average pay of $12 an hour, and you can display your mixology skills to make extra money on tips through the night.
Restaurant cook
Unleash your culinary skills by working as a restaurant cook part-time. Work is busiest in the evenings and weekends, with people making $13.10 hourly on average. This job doesn’t require a college degree, but if you know a lot about food and how to prepare them, you’re more likely to perform well. Formal training can also help you earn more at upscale restaurants.
Actor
Although many actors prefer to work full-time, the profession is more suited for part-time work. The job comes with a lot of competition and may require you to work unpredictable hours. Actors who work part-time are often associated with commercials, entertainment shows, and independent film/theater because they mostly have to work evenings or weekends. Actors are paid $21.88 per hour on average.
Physical therapist assistant
Usually, this job requires an associate degree from an accredited program and a license or certification to practice. PT assistants average an hourly wage of $24.02 and generally work between Monday and Friday.
Landscaper and groundskeeper
Landscapers and groundskeepers care for lawns and gardens to keep them healthy and thriving. Work is usually outdoors and involves planting, watering, mowing, fertilizing, and weeding. Usually, no formal education is required for these roles, and workers can learn while on the job. However, licenses may be required for people whose jobs involve pesticides and fertilizers. In addition, it pays an average hourly wage of $16.25.
Massage therapist
Massage therapists help alleviate pain, relieve stress, and heal injuries for their clients using specific massaging techniques. On average, they make an hourly wage of $20.97, with about 35% being self-employed. It helps them work on their own schedule. Generally, massage therapists require a postsecondary education program with 500 or more hours of training, but these rules differ from state to state.
Recreation and fitness worker
Recreation and fitness workers can find jobs at parks, community centers, gyms, or summer camps. They are paid an average hourly wage of $13.67, and the job is fun for those who enjoy engaging with people. It’s also an excellent part-time career choice for anyone who enjoys being physically active.
Personal care aide
Personal care aides (PCA) help those with chronic health conditions complete daily tasks like bathing, cooking, or making the bed. These positions may require high school diplomas or certificates from relevant community college programs, and people can earn $13.02 per hour, on average. Sometimes, additional training from a certified home health or hospice agency, such as a CPR certification, may also be required. Aides work at a client’s home, a group home, or a day service program at a nursing facility.
Teaching assistant
On-campus teaching assistants are expected to monitor classroom activities and work closely with struggling students. On average, they make an hourly wage of $11.85. However, those who already have experience in the field may be able to work as high-level assistants, leading classes and marking students’ work.
Library assistant
As a library assistant, you will have to shelve books, help customers find books and other materials, make recommendations, provide administrative support to the librarians, and help organize any events at the library. In addition, the job pays an average hourly wage of $13.24.
Research study assistant
A research study assistant is one of the most well-paid part-time jobs for students on campus. The role and responsibilities vary depending on the department, but you may be asked to work on various projects, conduct research, maintain lab equipment, and collect results. Research assistants make an average hourly wage of $15.48.
Barista
Working part-time at a coffee shop is an excellent way of supporting your income. It is a great place to meet new people, interact, and get your own coffee at a discount (or even for free). Baristas make an average of $11.59 per hour, excluding tips.
Tutor or peer mentor
If you’re not enthused about becoming a teaching assistant but would like to do something similar, you may consider tutoring or peer mentoring. The role involves helping students with course content, reading, or assignments, as needed, and offers an average hourly wage of $21.31.
Receptionist
Receptionists are in high demand in all forms of professions and may not need to come with a lot of experience or training. For students on campus, getting a part-time job as a university receptionist is an excellent way of supplementing their income. The role generally entails office support and administration, customer service, and communicating with staff and students via phone and email. Besides other benefits, the job offers an average hourly wage of $13.31.
Campus ambassador
Campus ambassadors are responsible for promoting the university by explaining to prospective students why they should apply. It’s a fun job for someone who enjoys meeting new people and working in teams. Ambassadors may also be asked to give guided tours of the university campus and share their knowledge with visitors. It pays an average of $10.94 per hour.