10 Part-Time Non-Tech Jobs for Women in Retirement

Retirement isn’t what it used to be. Gone are the days of knitting in a rocking chair (unless that’s your vibe, no judgment).

These days, retirement is more about reinvention than relaxation.

And if you’re a woman who’s not too keen on becoming besties with Excel or learning Python (and I don’t mean the snake), then stick around.

10 Best Part-Time Jobs for Seniors with No Tech Experience

I’ve got 10 awesome part-time, non-tech jobs for women in retirement.

And none of them involve sitting at a desk all day squinting at spreadsheets—pinky promise.

Let’s dive right in, shall we?

1. Library Assistant – Because Who Doesn’t Love That “Old Book” Smell?

If you’re a bookworm like me (and proud of it), this one’s a no-brainer.

Working as a library assistant is the perfect gig if you love books, organization, and community vibes.

You could be:

• Shelving books (yes, it’s low-key cardio)
• Helping with events (story time, anyone?)
• Answering basic questions like “Where’s the restroom?” (the real MVPs know)

Bonus: Libraries these days are way more than just quiet zones. They’re community hubs, and many of them need part-time help, especially in senior-friendly towns.

Where to start: Check your local library or try resources like Encore.org or the American Library Association’s job board.

Rhetorical question moment: Who wouldn’t want to get paid to hang out with books?

2. Museum or Gallery Guide – Be Around Beauty All Day

Love art? History? Talking to people? This job wraps all three into one gorgeous package.

As a museum guide, you’ll get to:

• Learn about exhibits and share that info with curious visitors
• Be surrounded by creativity and culture
• Work indoors (hello, air conditioning in July)

And no, you don’t need a degree in Art History; just passion, a friendly attitude, and maybe some comfy shoes.

Local tip: Ask your nearest museum directly. From art to history to “Random Things Our Town Did in the 1800s” museums, they often hire part-time guides.

IMO, It’s one of the classiest gigs out there.

3. Pet Sitter or Dog Walker – Furry Friends > Zoom Meetings

Let’s be real! Pets are the best coworkers. They don’t interrupt. They don’t micromanage. They just vibe.

Pet sitting or dog walking is perfect if:

• You enjoy gentle walks (hello, low-impact exercise)
• You love animals more than people (relatable)
• You want a flexible schedule

Platforms like Rover.com and TrustedHouseSitters.com make it super easy to get started.

Pro tip: Some gigs even include free accommodation while you house-sit. Yes, really. That’s Airbnb meets purr therapy.

4. Floral Assistant – Get Paid to Play with Flowers

If Pinterest boards were a job, this would be it.

As a floral assistant, you’ll help arrange bouquets, prep for events (weddings, galas, surprise Tuesday flowers), and generally be surrounded by nature’s finest.

You don’t need to be a master florist; just have:

• An eye for color
• Steady hands
• A love for beautiful things

Bonus gig: Some offices hire floral assistants to refresh lobby displays on a weekly basis. Easy money, and you get to call yourself a “floral designer.” Fancy, huh?

5. Seasonal Retail Assistant – ‘Tis the Season (for Earning)

Retail isn’t just for college kids and Black Friday zombies.

Many stores desperately need seasonal help during peak times, such as the holidays. That’s your time to shine.

Why it rocks:

• Flexible shifts
• Fast-paced (no time to be bored)
• Staff discounts (I see you, holiday shopping)

Yes, it’s on your feet. Yes, it can get hectic. But you know what else? It pays, it’s social, and no one’s expecting you to code a website.

Related: 30 Essential Transferable Job Skills for Virtual Assistant Services

6. Workshop Leader – Teach What You Know

Got a skill or hobby? You can turn it into a paid workshop.

Think:

• Painting classes at the community center
• Baking basics for beginners
• Journaling, knitting, or storytelling for kids or adults

You don’t need a website or a YouTube channel; just a clear flyer, a good pitch, and a room full of people eager to learn.

Where to start: Senior centers, retirement communities, or even local cafés with event space.

FYI: Don’t sell yourself short; your life experience is your superpower.

7. Storytime Reader – Channel Your Inner Mary Poppins

Love kids? Can you do voices? Got a warm smile and a reliable alarm clock?

Storytime reading at libraries or local events is a cozy and wholesome way to earn.

You’ll:

• Read stories to little ones
• Help parents get 30 blissful minutes of silence
• Be a mini-celebrity in a room full of toddlers (yes, you’ll be asked for autographs)

It’s sweet, simple, and usually doesn’t require a teaching certificate. Just enthusiasm and a good “monster voice.”

8. Home Baker for Cafes – The Secret Weapon Behind the Counter

This one’s for the cookie queens and banana bread bosses.

Small cafés often don’t have full-time bakers, but they do need delicious baked goods. If you’ve got talent in the kitchen, you can become their go-to pastry supplier.

How to get started:

• Create a sample menu (think vegan muffins, gluten-free cupcakes, etc.)
• Bake a few samples (yum)
• Approach local cafés and pitch yourself

It’s flexible, fun, and creative. Just don’t forget to price your ingredients and your time.

Also Check: How Much Do Virtual Assistants Make? Salary Guide & Rates

9. Event Assistant – Make It Happen Behind the Scenes

Have you ever been to a local festival or conference and thought, “This looks like fun”?

Spoiler alert: they constantly need helpers.

As an event assistant, you could:

• Help with ticketing
• Greet attendees
• Guide people around the venue

And hey, sometimes you get free food and swag. Not bad for a weekend side hustle.

Pro tip: Look for event venues or convention centers in your area. They often have a rotating list of part-time gigs.

10. Officiant – Be the Calm in Life’s Big Moments

Okay, this one’s kind of magical. And no, you don’t need to be a priest.

An officiant is the person who leads:

• Weddings
• Memorials
• Vow renewals

You guide people through life’s big moments with compassion and grace.

Training isn’t hard to find, and in many areas, it’s relatively simple to obtain certification.

Real talk: A friend of mine did this and says it’s the most meaningful job she’s ever had. Plus, the pay isn’t too shabby either.

Read More: 35 Creative Work from Home Career Ideas For Women

Bonus Round: A Few More Ideas Just Because

Still not inspired? No worries; here are a few bonus suggestions you can look into:

• Classroom assistant (schools often love extra hands)
• Thrift shop volunteer (many offer small stipends or perks)
• Farmers’ market helper (hello, fresh air and good vibes)
• Community theater support (costume helper? Ticket taker? All welcome)

How to Get Started (Without Overthinking It)

So you’re pumped about trying one of these part-time, non-tech jobs—but now you’re staring at your coffee like, “Uhh… where do I even begin?”

Relax. Getting started is way easier than you think. Pinky swears. Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Figure Out What You Actually Want

Before you throw yourself into a job, you’ll secretly hate (been there), take a minute and ask:

• Do I prefer being around people or dogs?
• Do I prefer flexible hours or a more structured schedule?
• Do I care more about creativity or a steady paycheck?

Seriously, write it down. Even a sticky note works. Clarity is a queen.

Step 2: Scope Out Local Opportunities

Not everything has to start with a Google search (shocking, I know). Try these first:

• Drop by your local library, museum, or senior center.
• Talk to friends; they might know someone hiring.
• Stalk community bulletin boards (digital or corkboard kind).
• Visit places you love and ask. What is your favorite café? Ask if they need a part-time baker or event helper.

Pro tip: Half the battle is just asking. People don’t know you’re available until you let them know.

Step 3: Prep a Simple “Pitch” or Portfolio

This isn’t Shark Tank. You don’t need a business plan, but having something ready helps:

• If you want to bake, bring samples and photos.
• Want to lead a workshop? Jot down your session idea and outline.
• Are you thinking of pet sitting? Create a concise one-pager detailing your experience and availability.

Make it short, sweet, and you. People hire people they like. So, show your charm!

Step 4: Apply, Volunteer, or Start

Depending on the gig, you might:

• Fill out an official application (museums, events, libraries)
• Volunteer first, then transition into paid work
• Start your own service (workshops, storytime, baked goods)

Remember: progress over perfection. You don’t need all the answers to take the first step.

Expert Tips for Success (a.k.a. Things I Wish Someone Told Me)

Okay, real talk: once you land the gig, how do you thrive in it? Whether you’re dog walking, storytelling, or selling flowers, here are some tips to totally own it.

1. Communicate Like a Boss

Let people know what you’re available for, what you offer, and how to reach you. Keep it simple. Clear is always better than cute.

Also, don’t ghost people. This isn’t Tinder.

2. Set Boundaries (Yep, Even in Retirement)

Just because you’re “retired” doesn’t mean you’re free 24/7. Want to work in the mornings only? Say so. Only free two days a week? Totally fine.

Spoiler: People will respect you more when you respect your own time.

3. Know Your Worth

Repeat after me: “This is not a hobby. I deserve to be paid fairly.”

Sure, some gigs might start off as volunteer roles, but don’t let that become your default. Your experience, wisdom, and time are valuable AF.

4. Learn As You Go (No Degree Required)

You don’t need to know everything upfront. Honestly, you’ll learn 90% of it on the job. Be open to feedback, ask questions, and fake confidence until it becomes real.

PSA: No one was born knowing how to host a museum tour or officiate a wedding. You’ve got this.

5. Keep It Fun Or Quit

Retirement jobs are supposed to be enjoyable. If it starts feeling like the office job you escaped from… girl, run. Life’s too short for boring side hustles.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Done, You’re Just Getting Started

Retirement isn’t the end; it’s a second beginning. And let’s be honest, you’ve earned the right to work on your terms.

So whether you want to cuddle dogs, read to kids, arrange peonies, or officiate lovebirds into holy matrimony, just go for it.

No spreadsheets. No AI. No “pivot table” headaches.

Just you, doing something you actually enjoy.