Part-time positions just right for retirees

Many adults nearing retirement age count down the days until they can bid adieu to the daily tasks of commuting and working so they can enjoy much more time for recreation, travel or whatever is they aspire to do.

As enticing as unending free time may seem, some retirees find it is not ideal to be entirely free from the responsibility of working. As current seniors can attest, inflation can drive up the costs of living, meaning that seniors who were once able to afford a certain retirement lifestyle may no longer enjoy that hard-earned luxury.

Others may miss the daily opportunities to socialize that working provides, or the way problem-solving on the job stimulates the brain. But even retirees who miss working may not be ready to return to the workforce full-time. That can make part-time employment an ideal fit for mature workers.

Here’s a look at some part-time positions that could be a good fit for older adults reentering the workforce.

Retail sales associate

Working in retail opens seniors up to a wide array of responsibilities and scenarios. Jobs may include greeting customers, making sales, putting out inventory, and helping customers select merchandise. Being personable and having good customer service skills are necessary traits to have when working in retail. Many stores offer part-time employees flexible hours so schedules can be customized.

Consultant

Retirees who loved their job but wanted to spend less time doing it can return as consultants. According to The Balance: Money, individuals often find they earn more per hour working as consultants than they did as full-time staff members. Consulting is a way to share expertise and experience without making a full-time commitment.

Customer service representative

A customer service representative is tasked with helping customers solve problems and ensuring customer satisfaction. He or she may work ain a traditional office or store location, or answer calls and resolve issues from home.

School positions

Retirees may want to consider jobs working in schools or in related capacities. Driving a school bus is an option if people are willing to undergo the proper training and licensing to operate this type of vehicle. Seniors also may consider working as lunchroom aides or lunch service providers, crossing guards, substitute teachers, and paraprofessionals. School employees will only work a few hours during the day. They’ll also enjoy many holidays off as well as summer vacations.

Receptionist

Receptionists greet patients or customers in office settings. According to AARP, they are the welcoming faces of organizations. Answering phones and light clerical work also may be required of receptionists. Those who want to work off-peak hours can think about working nights and weekends in hospitals or skilled nursing facilities.

Seniors have many different options if they decide they want to return to the workforce in a part-time capacity.