9 Part-Time Jobs That Pay More Than You Think

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9 Part-Time Jobs That Pay at Least $37 an Hour (financebuzz.com)

Part-Time, Full Pay: Nine Flexible Gigs That Offer Big Bucks

For years, the idea of part-time work has been synonymous with smaller paychecks. But what if we told you that’s not always the case? A new wave of opportunities is proving that you can have a flexible schedule and a healthy bank account, provided you’ve got the skills to snag these specialized roles.

We’ve rounded up nine part-time jobs that boast an hourly wage of at least $37, demonstrating that working fewer hours doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your financial goals. If you’re ready to boost your earnings without the full-time grind, take a look at these lucrative options.

Editor’s Note: All salary information is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

1. Benefits Specialist

Median hourly wage: $37.03

Even smaller businesses need a pro to handle employee benefits, and that often opens the door for part-time specialists. Larger organizations might also bring in consultants to manage their benefits programs. If you have a background in human resources, you’ll find plenty of flexible opportunities in this field.

2. Occupational Safety Specialist

Median hourly wage: $37.93

Workplace safety is a huge priority for companies, especially in industries like manufacturing and construction. They’d rather invest in a specialist to audit facilities and recommend improvements than face the hefty costs of workplace injuries. This means occupational safety experts can often find part-time or consulting gigs conducting audits and training sessions.

3. Fashion Designer

Median hourly wage: $38.79

Got an eye for style and the ability to design original clothing, footwear, or accessories? The fashion industry is calling!

Many designers work freelance, taking on specific projects for various brands. This project-based work is ideal for crafting a part-time schedule that fits your lifestyle, and it can even lead to more extensive opportunities down the line.

4. Multimedia Artist

Median hourly wage: $47.98

From advertising campaigns to websites and videos, multimedia artists bring visual elements to life. This could involve creating still images, photos, or animated videos.

Since the work is largely computer-based and deadline-driven, many companies hire freelancers for specific projects. If you have a creative flair, you can set your own hours by taking on part-time contracts.

5. Construction Manager

Median hourly wage: $51.43

Construction managers oversee everything from coordinating on-site work and managing budgets to handling project bills. While major projects demand a full-time commitment, smaller jobs can often be managed on a part-time basis. Some construction firms even require a manager primarily for administrative tasks, creating a surprisingly lucrative part-time role.

6. Art Director

Median hourly wage: $53.38

The visual identity of a company-from its advertising to its product labels and even its office decor-is crucial for branding. Think of any iconic brand, and you’ll immediately picture its associated imagery.

Talented art directors are the masterminds behind this style. Startups and smaller companies often seek freelance and part-time art directors, which can open doors to further opportunities.

7. Training Manager

Median hourly wage: $61.10

Today, many companies require employees to complete various training programs for development or compliance. These organizations often bring in expert trainers on a contract basis to develop and lead specific courses. If you have deep subject-matter expertise and enjoy teaching, this could be the perfect part-time role for you.

8. Public Relations Manager

Median hourly wage: $63.88

Public relations (PR) managers are tasked with shaping how the world perceives their organization. This includes everything from advertising campaigns and press releases to media interactions. While often a full-time role, small businesses and non-profits frequently hire PR managers on a part-time basis to handle their image.

9. Optometrist

Median hourly wage: $64.82

While many optometrists operate their own full-time practices, numerous large retail vision centers and group practices regularly need part-time help to cover shifts. If you’re a qualified professional, you can command a high hourly wage while enjoying a flexible schedule and meeting these important needs.

The Takeaway

Working part-time doesn’t have to mean scrimping by. There are plenty of opportunities for lucrative part-time work that can help you get ahead financially. The key is finding a role that aligns with your talents and interests, allowing you to work less and earn more.

In fact, more Americans are embracing the part-time option. Data from August 2025, released by the United States Department of Labor, showed that 17.8% of all employed workers were in part-time roles – the highest level in seven years.

Smart Money Moves for Everyone

No matter your current financial standing, there’s always room to optimize your finances. Here’s a quick checklist of things you can tackle today:

Tackle Your Debt: Debt can be a major roadblock to financial progress. Beyond cutting expenses, consider tools like balance transfer credit cards or debt counseling to help you pay it off faster.

Boost Your Income: If money is tight, earning some extra cash can make a significant difference. While a new full-time job is an option, a part-time side hustle might be a better fit if you’re not ready for a big change or are already retired.

Trim Your Expenses: It might not sound fun, but cutting expenses doesn’t have to be painful. Start by looking at your biggest expenditures, as that’s where you’ll likely find the most significant savings.

For example, with auto insurance rates soaring, shopping around for a new provider could be the quickest way to reduce your bill. Planning a vacation?

The right travel credit card could help offset costs.