Are you looking for a new career or a side hustle after retiring as a teacher? If your retirement plans include finding new things to do, there are many excellent jobs for retired teachers waiting for you.
Retired teachers are some of the world’s most intelligent and passionate people. And while some may choose to spend their golden years relaxing, others may want to find ways other than teaching careers to stay active, productive, and engaged.
You can use or build on the qualifications, skills, and knowledge from decades of your teaching career. Or go on a completely different track, doing work you may have set aside or postponed while you were a teacher. Either way, many opportunities and low-stress jobs after retirement are available for you.
If you’re a retired teacher searching for a new job, here are 25 job opportunities to consider.
Jobs for Retired Teachers – Work From Home
1. Surveys
Survey jobs can be flexible, allowing retirees to work from home on their schedule. And because surveys provide valuable data that businesses and organizations rely on, retirees can feel good knowing that their work is helping to inform critical decisions. Check out these apps and websites that offer paid surveys.
- Swagbucks. A rewards program that lets you earn points by taking surveys, browsing the web, shopping online, and doing other microtasks. Sign up with Swagbucks for free and convert your points into gift cards or cash-backs. Here’s our full Swagbucks review.
- Rakuten. If you want cashback while shopping at over 3,500 stores, check out Rakuten to save some shopping money. Read our full Rakuten review here.
- InboxDollars. Making money can’t get any easier with InboxDollars. Sign up, take the surveys and different online tasks, and earn extra cash. For more details, go to our full InboxDollars review.
- Survey Junkie. Earn extra cash with Survey Junkie by completing online surveys or sharing your data. Get paid with gift cards or cash through Paypal. Read our full Survey Junkie review for more information.
However, it’s essential to be aware of some potential drawbacks of survey work. For instance, surveys can sometimes be repetitive and tedious, and the pay can be low.
2. Proofreading
Proofreading involves reading through a text and correcting grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. While it may sound easy, it’s challenging, even more so when the text is long or complex.
But for those with a sharp eye for detail, proofreading can be a fun and rewarding way to earn money. With many people working from home, there’s more demand than ever for quality online proofreaders.
If you are serious about becoming a proofreader, a useful course would be Proofread Anywhere, a popular training by Caitlin Pyle. Caitlin made over $36,000 per year part-time as a proofreader, attesting to this job’s high-income potential.
Try out her completely FREE workshop and learn how to start proofreading and where to find clients.
3. Transcription
Retired teachers looking for a new job may want to consider transcription. Transcription is the process of converting spoken words into written form, and it can be a great way to stay mentally active in retirement. Many transcription jobs are available, from court reports to medical transcripts.
And because you can do transcription work from anywhere, it’s an excellent option for retired teachers who want to travel or work from home. So, transcription could be the perfect fit if you’re looking for a new way to use your skills in retirement.
You may consider GoTranscript in looking for transcription jobs from home. Read the full GoTranscript review for more details about the platform.
4. Blogger
If you’re a retired teacher or thinking about retirement, there are plenty of opportunities to remain in touch with the education field. One option is to start an educational blog, and you can focus on a particular subject or write about various topics.
You can also write for a specific age group or educators of all levels. Whatever you decide, make sure your blog is full of helpful information that teachers will appreciate.
If you want to start your educational blog, Bluehost is a cheap option for beginners as your hosting platform.
5. Freelance Writer
If you’re ready to start your next chapter, why not try freelance writing?
There are many different types of writing jobs available for freelancers, so you can choose projects that interest you. Whether you’re writing articles, blog posts, or even social media content, there’s sure to be a freelancing opportunity perfect for you.
You can also try platforms like FlexJobs, Fiverr, and Upwork. There are plenty of new jobs posted on those sites every day.
6. Data Entry
There are several reasons why data entry jobs are well-suited for retirees. First, they can be done at one’s own pace, allowing retired workers to take their time and avoid rushed mistakes. Second, most data entry jobs can be done from home, letting retirees work around their other commitments.
Finally, many data entry jobs require minimal training, making them relatively easy to learn. If you’re retired and looking for a way to stay busy, consider giving data entry a try.
7. Course Creation
Have you ever considered creating an online course based on your subject of specialization? It’s a great way to use your knowledge and expertise and can also be a great source of income–especially if you’re a retired teacher. You can work from home, set your hours, and control the content of your course.
In addition, you’ll be able to reach a global audience of students who might not otherwise have access to your expertise. So, if you’re looking for an exciting and rewarding way to spend your retirement, try creating an online course.
Jobs for Retired Teachers – School-Related Jobs
8. Tutor
For those who recently got out of their teaching jobs, you might find tutoring a nice alternative.
Tutoring jobs for retired teachers usually entail working with students on a one-to-one basis, although some tutors also work with small groups. You can do online tutoring in Math or Science.
You can also teach a foreign language or English as a Second Language (ESL) to online pupils on a per-hour basis.
Suppose you want to work overseas and have Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), or similar English teaching certifications. In that case, you can also teach English abroad or at international schools.
There is also a growing demand for tutors who can help with test preparation, such as the SAT or ACT. In addition to working with students, tutors often collaborate with parents and teachers to develop lesson plans and assess student progress.
9. Substitute Teacher
Working as a substitute or a part-time teacher can be the perfect way for retired educators to stay connected to the world of education without all the stress that comes with working full-time. Substitute teaching opportunities for former school teachers are generally easier to come by than full-time positions, and the hours are usually more flexible.
And while the pay is not as much as a full-time salary, becoming a substitute teacher can still be an excellent way to supplement your income in retirement.
10. Research Assistant
Another option is to become a research assistant (RA). RAs work with professors and other researchers to help with data collection and analysis.
A background in education makes retired teachers ideal candidates for this type of work.
11. Librarian
Looking for a job that could be perfect for retirees? Become a librarian. You need to have a passion for books and knowledge and be able to share that passion with others.
Other qualifications for librarians include being patient and organized, as they often deal with many books and people. But most importantly, they need to be good communicators since they will be working with people of all ages and backgrounds.
12. Test Marker
If you want to stay busy after years of being an educator and earn extra income, you’re in luck! Different schools hire retired teachers to work as test markers, and it is a perfect job for those who want to stay connected to the education field but want to avoid the commitment of full-time teaching.
As a test marker, you will mark standardized tests and provide student feedback; you will be asked to grade learners’ assignments. It is a great way to stay sharp and use your expertise to help others.
13. Teaching Material Provider
You can become a teaching material provider after you work as a teacher. You’ll create and deliver educational content to schools and teachers in this job, including lesson plans, worksheets, assessments, and instructor manuals.
In many cases, you’ll also be required to provide support and guidance to teachers of your materials. As such, you must understand the education system and your employers’ needs well.
14. Exam Coder
You would be responsible for creating and administering examinations as an exam coder. It would involve developing exam questions, coding them, and then grading them. You would also be responsible for maintaining examination records and results.
To become an exam coder, you’ll need to be familiar with coding languages such as Java and C++. Then, you’ll need to be able to work independently and meet deadlines. And finally, you should be able to handle a high volume of work.
15. Laboratory Technician
Working with students in a lab setting can be very rewarding. You’ll get to help them with their experiments, and you’ll also get to teach them the importance of safety in the lab.
Most importantly, you’ll see the excitement in their eyes when they make a discovery. If you have retired from teaching and looking for a new challenge, consider becoming a laboratory technician.
Jobs for Retired Teachers – Teaching-Related Skills
16. Career Advisor/Consultant
With your teaching experience and expertise, you can easily find a job as a career advisor or consultant. In this career path, you’ll help people choose suitable careers for their skills and interests.
You can guide them in resume writing, interviewing, and job search strategies. In addition, you’ll be able to share your insight and advice on teaching and related professions.
17. School Guidance Counselor
A job option for retired teachers is to become a school guidance counselor. Guidance counselors help students plan their studies, select colleges and find scholarships and financial aid.
They also provide counseling and support to students struggling with personal issues or at risk of dropping out of school. While the job of a guidance counselor can be demanding, it can also be gratifying.
18. Teacher Recruitment Specialist
The recruitment process is excellent if you want to work in education but not as a teacher or administrator. Teacher recruitment specialists recruit suitable people for schools with additional training and support available.
As an experienced teacher who has gone through all these hiring processes–from finding your first teaching position to negotiating salaries and benefits packages–you will know what it takes! So, it might be perfect for you to try being a teacher recruiter.
19. Instructional Coach
Being an instructional coach is one of the best jobs for retired teachers. Retired teachers can act as teaching coaches with years of experience in the field and provide valuable insights and guidance to new teachers or struggling educators on teaching effectively.
An instructional coach allows one to stay involved in the education community while enjoying a flexible schedule. Since you can also do many coaching positions remotely, it’s a great way to stay connected with colleagues across the country.
20. Textbook Author
Are you thinking about becoming a textbook author? It’s an excellent job for retired teachers! You get to share your knowledge with the next generation of students, and you also get to work from home and set hours. And, with today’s technology, you can even format and publish your books!
21. Educational Consultant
Fortunately, several jobs for retired teachers can be financially and personally rewarding. One option is to become an educational consultant, where you could use your expertise to help other educators improve their teaching methods and student outcomes.
It could involve conducting workshops, writing articles or books, or providing one-on-one coaching.
22. Corporate Training
Undoubtedly, corporate training can be a valuable asset for any business. After all, it helps to ensure that employees are up-to-date on the latest skills and knowledge.
Many retired teachers find corporate training the perfect way to stay active and engaged in their later years. Not only does it provide a much-needed sense of purpose, but it also offers an excellent opportunity to share their wealth of knowledge on specific topics with the next generation of workers.
23. Human Resources
Human resources is a field that deals with employee recruitment, selection, and training, and it also deals with the development and management of employee benefits programs.
Retired teachers often have the necessary skills and experience to be successful in this field. They are familiar with guiding, training, and evaluating students. They are often excellent communicators and have strong people skills.
Jobs for Retired Teachers – Other Side Hustles
24. Babysitting
For many retirees, babysitting conjures images of frazzled parents and screaming children. However, jobs for retired teachers are often in high demand, as parents appreciate the experience and patience that comes with years of teaching. Set clear expectations with the parents about your availability and rates.
A good understanding of child development and basic first aid is also essential. Also, patience is essential–even well-behaved children can have their moments. But if you like children and are up for the challenge, babysitting can be a rewarding way to spend your retirement hours.
25. Private Nanny
Private nannies are in high demand, especially in larger cities where parents often have demanding jobs and schedules. While the position of a nanny is to care for children, it also requires patience, creativity, and the ability to think on one’s feet. For these reasons, many nannies are retired teachers with years of experience working with children.
In addition to providing care and supervision, private nannies often serve as confidantes and sounding boards for parents. They are someone who parents can trust to give honest feedback and advice. So, private nannies play a vital role in the lives of many families.
If you do not find the above options appealing and still want to find a job that suits your preferences, you can sell your skills as a freelancer and find various job postings at Fiverr, FlexJobs, and Upwork. Just highlight your marketable teaching credentials, create a smashing resume, and list your profile on these online job platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Jobs for Retired Teachers
At What Age Do Most Teachers Retire?
Teachers usually retire between 55 to 60. With an early retirement option down to 55 years old, some may be looking for another career, an additional source of income, or simply flexible work now that they have time to do what they enjoy while collecting a pension.
Are Teachers’ Pensions Paid for Life?
Teachers will receive a pension after retirement. This is based on their years of service and their salary at the end of their retirement.
What State Has the Best Teacher Retirement?
South Carolina has the best teacher retirement plan in the United States. The quality of benefits offered to school teachers for their retirement plan far outweighs any other plans that are being offered now.
Conclusion – Jobs for Retired Teachers
If, after years of teaching, you find the prospect of not working after retirement unpleasant, the job openings listed above would give you ideas on how to enjoy your golden years while still earning an income, whether as a new career or a part-time gig.
Whatever you choose, your experience and skills as a teacher will undoubtedly be marketable, if not in high demand, in today’s online work mode and gig economy. With a job you want, done on your own schedule, terms, and at your own pace, your retirement years can be enjoyable, lucrative, and still full of possibilities and growth.
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Marjolein is a financial consultant who has built over €4,000 monthly passive income and saves over 70% of her income. Read Radicals’ inspiring story, from stuck in the 9-to-5 to loving life. Feel free to send Radical a message at the bottom of this page