The top fifteen jobs for stay at home moms

When you have children, a work-from-home job can be a good option. You can make extra income from the comfort of your own home, while juggling family commitments. Childcare services can be expensive, and in some areas there's a long waiting list. 46% of unemployed moms said they left their jobs because they couldn't access childcare. Since the start of the COVID pandemic, more businesses have remote teams. If you're thinking about working from home, now is a good time to start your job search. There are different options available depending on your skills, interests, and experience. Not sure where to start? We've got you covered. Here's a list of fifteen jobs for stay at home moms and dads. The question is, which one is right for you?

What is a stay at home job?

A stay at home job, or work-from-home job, is a remote position. It's something you can do without having to commute to a physical workplace. If you want to work from home, you can get a part-time or full-time job. Alternatively, you can work as a freelancer or start a small business. Some roles are entirely remote. Others are hybrid with time spent at the office each week. Remote jobs are available in a range of industries, including administration, sales, customer service, education, personal services, finance, and marketing. The option you choose will depend on your experience and how much spare time you have. The one universal requirement if you want to work from home is a quiet workspace. Most jobs also require a reliable internet connection, a computer, and a smartphone. You’ll usually need good computer skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail, among other things.

What are the benefits of working from home?

If you're a parent and want to spend more time with your child(ren), working from home can be a good choice. You can cut down on daycare expenses and get a better work-life balance. Even if you still need someone to watch your children so you can do your job, you can skip the long daily commute. This gives you more time (and energy) before and after work to spend with your family. Some jobs have flexible hours, so you can work when it suits you. For example, you can work during nap time, at night, or on the weekend. If there's an event at your child's school or if they have a dentist appointment, you can schedule your work around these commitments. There may not be parent-friendly jobs in your area, but if you work from home, it doesn't matter where your employer is based. Remote work gives you more opportunities to get a job and continue your career. If you have unused space in your home, you can set it up as an office. However, when you work from home, you can even be productive from your sofa or at your kitchen table (though we’d advise against it, as this can blur the lines between work and family life).

What are the best jobs for stay at home moms?

Thinking about working from home? Here are the top jobs for stay at home moms.

1. Freelance writer

If you're good with words, freelance writing may be a good fit. Writers work in different industries, including publishing, marketing, television, education, and news. They write articles, blog posts, and books. 68% of writers are self-employed. Having a degree in communications, journalism, or English can be beneficial, but if you enjoy writing, you can work hard and build a portfolio from scratch. To work as a freelance writer, you'll need to be self-motivated. You may work with an editor, so you should be a team player with a great attention to detail. Computer skills and accurate typing skills are essential, and you'll need to be confident using programs such as Google Docs, Google Drive, and Microsoft Word. Where to find a job You can browse freelance writing jobs on our job board. You can also contact local companies or publications directly offering your services.

2. Graphic designer

Graphic designers create visual content for both digital and physical media. For example, they work on advertising campaigns, design logos, edit digital photos, create flyers, and create images for social media posts. Graphic designers can work for agencies to help companies follow through on their marketing plans. Or, they can run their businesses as freelance designers. To get started, you'll need to know how to use design software like Photoshop or Illustrator. Some graphic designers are self-taught, while others have a degree or certificate. You'll need to be creative, with good time management skills and communication skills. Once you've done a few projects, you can kick off your freelance career by adding previous experience to your portfolio and resume. Where to find a job You can browse graphic designer jobs on our job board. You can also sign up for freelance platforms to find new clients.

3. Tutor

Do you have teaching experience? Or, did you do well in a specific subject such as maths, English or science? Tutoring can be a good way to make extra money and help students improve their grades and even their self-esteem. Tutors work one on one or in small groups. Sessions can be in person or online via video chat. Tutors help students of all ages prepare for tests and understand confusing course materials. They assign homework and make individual learning plans. Tutors can choose their own hours. You'll need excellent communication skills, organizational skills, and expertise in your chosen subject like science or math. Where to find a job You can browse tutor positions on our job board.

4. Babysitter

You're already caring for your own children, so why not help other parents by offering a babysitting service? You can make money and give your kids someone to play with. Some families specifically hire nannies who have their own children. Babysitting duties include caring for children of all ages by preparing meals, changing diapers, and setting up activities. To work in this role, you may need to pass a working with children check. A driver's license and first aid certificate can also be beneficial. If you have experience in early education, it'll be appealing to those looking for child care. You can work with regular clients or offer one-off babysitting services. Where to find a job You can browse babysitting jobs on our job board.

5. Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers help businesses and individuals with their finances. They input data into bookkeeping software such as MYOB, Xero, and Microsoft Excel and crunch numbers to help companies calculate taxes, payroll, and more. Bookkeepers check financial statements to make sure they're correct. Plus, they generate reports, create invoices, and reconcile payments. Bookkeepers often work from home. An employer can hire you, or you can start your own bookkeeping business. Potential clients will be looking for someone with an eye for detail, good organizational skills, math skills, and excellent customer service. Bookkeepers usually have training, and online courses can help to boost your skills. Depending on where you live, a certification may be required. Where to find a job You can browse remote bookkeeping positions on our job board. If you’re good with data but don’t have the required certification for bookkeeping, consider a role as a data entry clerk.

6. Social media manager

Know your way around social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram? Busy business owners often hire people to manage their social media accounts. As a social media manager, you'll create original content with images, text, and links to attract prospective customers. You can schedule posts in advance, giving you time to work around other commitments. If you want to work as a social media manager, you'll need to be tech-savvy, creative, and organized. You'll need to work closely with clients and come up with plans and briefs, so your posts are consistent. Graphic design or marketing experience can be beneficial. Where to find a job You can browse social media manager jobs on our job board.

7. Hairdresser

If you're an experienced hairdresser, you can set up an at-home salon. It can be a full-time job, or you can book clients around the needs of your children. Duties include cutting and coloring hair and staying up to date with industry trends. Some business owners offer additional services such as nails, massage, and eyelash extensions. Hairdressers need a license in all 50 states to operate as a professional hairstylist — but the requirements vary. In California, you need 1,000 hours of apprentice experience and pass an exam before you can start your own licensed hairdressing business. In other states, the requirements are laxer. You'll also need excellent customer service skills, technical skills, and product knowledge. Plus, you have to take and manage bookings, so organizational skills are crucial. Don't forget, you'll need the right salon equipment set up in your home. Plus, you'll be responsible for your taxes and insurance. Where to find a job You can start your own hairdressing business at home. You can also browse hairdressing jobs on our job board.

8. Independent artist or creator

Crafty moms and dads can use their artistic abilities to make extra money from home. You can sell your creations at markets or online. You can make just about anything. For example, some creators sew aprons and clothing. Others make candles, soaps, stickers, or jewelry. You can use paint, fabric, wool, wood, and plaster, or you can create and sell digital products like 3D printing designs. To be successful, you'll need to be creative and experienced in your craft. Completing an Etsy marketing course may also be beneficial. To succeed, you need to be business savvy and a good communicator. After all, you'll need to promote and grow your own business, and churn out best-selling products. Where to find a job You’ll be independent, so the way you run your business is up to you. Online marketplaces such as Etsy can be a good place to start.

9. Transcriptionist

Transcriptionists listen to recordings and turn them into text documents. They work in a range of industries, including health, government, technology, and law. For example, a medical transcriptionist may turn a doctor's audio recordings into letters. A legal transcriptionist may transform court recordings into documented minutes. If you can speak multiple languages, you can translate recordings as you transcribe them. Transcriptionists often work from home. You'll need a quiet workspace, attention to detail, and computer skills. Workers need to type very quickly and accurately and have excellent listening skills. Where to find a job Browse transcriptionist roles on our job board.

10. Virtual administrative assistant

Do you have administrative experience? Consider working as a virtual administrative assistant. These workers can be freelance with multiple clients or be dedicated to just one employer. The duties can vary, but you can expect to answer phone calls, compose emails, schedule appointments, and book travel arrangements. Anything you'd expect to do in an office, you can do from home. If you want to work as a virtual assistant, you'll need strong computer, communication, time management, and organizational skills. If you know how to use software such as Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Zoom, that’s an advantage. Where to find a job You can browse virtual administrative assistant jobs on our job board.

11. Remote customer service representative

Companies often hire people for remote customer service roles. If you get a job as a remote customer service representative, you may answer client phone calls or talk to them online. For example, you can chat via Facebook Messenger, email, or a live help app. You'll use your excellent communication abilities to help customers solve their issues. Some reps have to deal with various complaints, while others focus only on technical issues. If you want to work as a remote customer service representative, you'll need excellent communication skills and product knowledge. To be successful, you'll need a computer, phone and reliable internet connection. Being able to speak multiple languages can be an advantage. Where to find a job You can browse remote customer service representative jobs on our job board.

12. Photographer

Photographers take photos of different subjects, including people, animals, products, and landscapes. They usually have a specialty such as weddings, family, fashion, or product shoots. Most photographers have experience, creativity, and an attention to detail. They can build a portfolio and make a passive income selling stock photos. Right now, there's a strong demand for video content, so many photographers moonlight as videographers. Photographers need high-quality cameras and lighting equipment. You can set up a studio at home, or travel to photoshoots. They often work weekends, but you can pick your own hours. Photographers need graphic design skills as photos often need editing. Plus, you’ll typically need an online presence to attract clients. Where to find a job Browse our job board for photographer positions.

13. Flea market flipper

If you go to flea markets or yard sales regularly, why not turn your passion into a business as a flea market flipper? You'll need extra space in your home or garage and an eye for bargains. For example, some people make decent money buying and selling used baby gear. If baby equipment isn't your thing, vintage fashion, furniture, or antiques could be your niche. You'll need to invest time into finding bargains, and some of your purchases may need some DIY attention. You'll need good communication skills, negotiating skills, research skills, and preferably a car or truck with a lot of space. You can sell your goods in person or online, so computer skills are recommended. Where to find a job To start your flea market flipper business, you can check out your local markets and yard sales for inspiration.

14. Personal trainer

Personal trainers can work in person or online, and sessions are usually one hour. They train individuals or small groups. Their role includes coaching clients to work out and maintain a healthy lifestyle. A personal trainer has to understand their clients’ experience levels and create a program that suits their needs. If you can grow your client list, it can be a good source of income. Plus, you can book clients when it suits your schedule. To work as a personal trainer, you'll need to complete a certification. A first-aid certificate may also be a requirement. You should be physically fit, with good organizational and communication skills. Where to find a job Browse personal trainer roles on our job board.

15. Recruiter

Recruiters help companies find new qualified employees. If you have the right connections, you can make a full-time income from home. Recruiters help create listings on employment websites and screen job seekers. They check resumes and recommend candidates to the employer. Recruiters are often part of the interview process. If you want to work as a recruiter, you'll need efficient communication skills. You should be active on career websites and social media. Experience in management or human resources can be beneficial. You'll need to build strong relationships and have good listening skills. Recruiters need to be tech-savvy and available to answer emails and phone calls. Where to find a job Browse recruiter jobs on our job board.

The best jobs for stay at home moms

If you’re a stay at home mom looking for a way to make some extra cash, you’ve come to the right place. With the internet becoming more accessible, working from home is now easier than ever before. There is a wide range of jobs to choose from depending on your skills and experience. Creative types can hustle as freelance writers, graphic designers, social media managers, photographers, or independent crafters. If you like working with people, a job as a virtual administrative assistant, remote customer representative or recruiter could be a better fit. Hairdressers, personal trainers, flea market flippers, tutors, and bookkeepers can use their unique skills to start a business from home. Want to start looking for work? Head over to our job board. When you’re ready, take a look at our resource center for more hints and tips. (If you’ve already got a job but struggle to get things done in your home office, read our guide on how to work from home.)