24 Second Job Ideas To Make Extra Money – Technologist

Looking for second job ideas to increase your income? You’re not alone. Many people look for side gigs to help pay bills, save for big purchases, or simply have extra spending money.

Finding the right second job and making extra income can make a big difference in your financial life. With so many options available, there’s likely something that fits your skills and schedule. Whether you want a job you can do from home or one that gets you out and about, there’s a side job out there for you.

For me, I was able to find a second job and it completely changed my life. In fact, it’s how I paid off my $40,000 in student loans in just 7 months. Making extra money also helped me to stop living paycheck to paycheck and to save more money!

Best Second Job Ideas

Below are the best second job ideas:

1. Blogger

Blogging used to be my side hustle and it is now my full-time job where I have earned over $5,000,000 over the years.

I started Making Sense of Cents just as a hobby, and it eventually turned into my second job. I didn’t know that blogs could make money or that it could become my full-time job. I didn’t even understand what a blog was or how it worked.

Starting a blog can be a great way to earn extra income. You can write about topics you are passionate about, such as travel, food, or personal finance. The best part is that you have the freedom to work on your blog whenever you have free time.

For me, it was a great second job because I could work on my blog before I went to my day job, during my lunch break, after I got home from work, and on the weekends. You get to make your own schedule, so that is a huge plus!

You can learn more about how to begin in my free How To Start a Blog Course here.

Here’s a quick outline of what you will learn:

• Day 1: Reasons you should start a blog
• Day 2: How to choose what to blog about
• Day 3: How to create your blog (you’ll learn how to start a blog on WordPress)
• Day 4: How to make money blogging
• Day 5: My tips for making passive income from blogging
• Day 6: How to grow your traffic and followers
• Day 7: Extra blogging tips to help you be successful

2. Proofreader

Being a proofreader is a great second job idea. It’s perfect if you love reading and have a good eye for catching mistakes. You get to find errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

You can work from home as a proofreader. Many companies and websites offer remote proofreading jobs. Some popular platforms include Upwork, FlexJobs, and Scribendi.

You might proofread books, articles, or even student papers. The work can be flexible, letting you choose when to work. This makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

Proofreaders can earn a decent amount of money. Some jobs pay by the hour, while others pay by the project. According to some sources, full-time proofreaders can make around $50,000 per year. Even if you don’t work full-time, you can still make a good side income.

I personally have a proofreader for my blog, and I know many others who have proofreaders for their businesses as well. It’s a very much-needed and in-demand job.

You can learn more at How To Start A Proofreading Business And Make $4,000+ Monthly.

3. Take online surveys

Taking online surveys can be a simple way to earn extra money in your spare time. Companies want to know what you think about their products, services, or marketing campaigns.

Many websites offer paid surveys. You can sign up for these sites and start taking surveys right away. Each survey usually takes a few minutes to complete.

You might earn anywhere from $0.50 to $5 per survey, depending on the length and complexity.

The survey companies I recommend signing up for include:

1. American Consumer Opinion
2. Survey Junkie
3. Swagbucks
4. InboxDollars
5. Branded Surveys
6. Prime Opinion
7. Five Surveys
8. PrizeRebel
9. Pinecone Research

Online surveys can be done from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy to fit around your other commitments. Just remember, while this can add up over time, you will not make a full-time income from just taking surveys.

I have taken many, many surveys over the years, and what I like about them is that you can do them on your own schedule – in the mornings, during your lunch break, before you go to bed – whenever. There is no strict schedule and they are super easy to do.

4. Dog walker or pet sitter

Becoming a dog walker or pet sitter is a great way to make extra money. You can set your own schedule and enjoy spending time with furry friends. Plus, many people need reliable pet care (I have personally found it hard to find a good dog sitter in the past, so I personally know that there is a lot of demand for this second job!), so there are plenty of opportunities.

Using dog walking apps like Rover, you can easily find clients. These platforms connect you with pet owners in your area. Depending on how much time you invest, you could potentially earn between $400 and $1,000 a month.

When I have had dog sitters in the past, I was paying around $100 a day for my two dogs to be watched in the person’s home. So, a 10-day trip earned the person $1,000.

Taking care of animals can also be very rewarding. You get to exercise while walking dogs and enjoy the company of pets. It’s a job that keeps you active and can be a lot of fun if you love animals.

No special skills are needed, but being responsible and loving pets is important. You must be punctual and trustworthy since pet owners rely on you to take care of their animals.

My mother-in-law as well as my sister are both dog walkers and pet sitters and enjoy what they do.

5. Virtual assistant

Being a virtual assistant is a great second job idea. You can help businesses and professionals with tasks like managing emails, scheduling appointments, and handling social media. This role tends to have flexible hours, making it easier to fit into your schedule.

One of my first side jobs was working as a virtual assistant. It was a fun and flexible way to earn extra money. There are many kinds of virtual assistant jobs. The money I made helped me pay off my student loans quickly, stop living paycheck to paycheck, and become my own boss. I think it’s a great way to make money, whether you want a part-time or full-time job.

Starting as a virtual assistant can be easy. Websites like Upwork, FlexJobs, and Indeed have listings for virtual assistant jobs. You just have to set up a profile and start applying. For me, I also let my friends and those in my industry know that I was growing my virtual assistant business, and that helped me find jobs as well.

A virtual assistant’s tasks can include:

• Managing social media accounts
• Scheduling travel and appointments
• Managing email inboxes
• Organizing events
• Communicating with clients
• Ordering supplies
• Managing calendars
• Handling logistics
• Coordinating Zoom calls
• Moderating online forums
• Running personal errands
• Answering customer service questions
• Performing data entry
• Managing websites
• Creating presentations
• Sending invoices

Now, one virtual assistant most likely won’t do all of these tasks – it simply depends on what the company or person is looking for.

Learn more at Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs.

6. Graphic designer

You can make extra money as a graphic designer, and this can be a good second job idea if you want to work from home. A graphic designer is what you think – they design different kinds of graphics.

One way is to create design templates. These can be for websites, social media, or even printable designs. You can sell these templates online and get paid each time someone buys them.

Another option is freelance work. You can sell services like logo design, branding, or social media graphics, and you can find clients on sites like Upwork or Fiverr.

7. Social media manager

Social media managers handle different social media platforms for businesses.

Your job can include creating content, posting updates, and responding to followers. You might also need to analyze data to see what posts are doing well and which ones are not.

They work for one company or multiple clients. It’s important to have good communication skills and a creative mindset. Some social media managers also do graphic design or video editing for their social media posts.

Being a social media manager can be fun and flexible. You can usually work from home and set your own hours. This control and flexibility make it an excellent job for people looking to earn extra income on their own terms.

For me, I have been a social media manager in the past as a second job. It was great as a flexible side hustle!

8. Online tutor

If you enjoy teaching and have a strong understanding of a subject, you can try finding online tutoring jobs. Online tutoring lets you share your skills and help students from anywhere, and you can tutor kids in math, science, and reading, or even help them prepare for tests like the SAT or ACT.

Platforms like Wyzant and Tutor.com connect you with students looking for help. You create a profile, list your skills, and set your rates. Most tutors charge between $30 and $60 per hour. Teaching English as a second language is also a popular option. Many companies need English tutors to teach students abroad.

Online tutoring is flexible because you can choose your own hours and work from home. This makes it easy to fit around your teaching job or other responsibilities. Some tutors even make up to $1000 a week by dedicating just a few hours each day.

9. Bookkeeper

Becoming a bookkeeper is a great second job, and it can typically be done from home.

Bookkeepers keep track of financial records for businesses. This could include recording transactions, managing payroll, and preparing financial reports.

You don’t need a special certification to become a bookkeeper, making it easier to start.

The best part is that you can do this job from anywhere with just a laptop and some software. This flexibility means you can work from home or even when you’re traveling.

Since bookkeeping services are always in demand, you can find clients easily. This can be a very profitable side hustle. Some bookkeepers even charge $60 an hour or more.

Learn more at How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs.

10. Freelance writer

Working as a freelance writer is a great way to make extra money.

Freelance writers are self-employed and work for magazines, blogs, websites, companies, and more. A lot of what you read online today is written by a freelance writer.

I have been a freelance writer for many years, and I really enjoy it. I have written for many different websites and companies, and I make good money doing so.

You can write from home, at your own pace, and choose projects that interest you. Many companies need blog posts, articles, web content, and social media posts.

11. Photography

Getting paid to take pictures is a popular second job idea.

What’s great is that there are many ways to get paid for photography, such as:

• Stock photos – Stock image websites are popular places for photographers to sell their pictures. These sites let customers buy royalty-free photos for personal or business use. Websites, TV shows, books, social media accounts, and more use stock photos all the time. Some popular stock photo websites are Shutterstock, iStock by Getty Images, Adobe Stock, and Dreamstime.
• Portraits and event photos – As a photographer, you can focus on taking portraits and event photos. This area is in high demand, especially for weddings, elopements, birthdays, and corporate events.
• Post pictures on Instagram or Facebook – Social media platforms like Instagram are great for sharing your pictures and gaining followers. Many people make a full-time income from their Instagram accounts. They do this through sponsored partnerships with companies, affiliate marketing, and selling their own products.

12. Personal trainer

Becoming a personal trainer is a great second job idea. You can help people get in shape while earning extra money.

You can work at a gym or do private sessions at clients’ homes. Some trainers also provide online coaching, which gives you more flexibility.

Personal trainers sometimes create workout plans tailored to each client’s needs. They might also give advice on nutrition, and this way, they can help clients with both exercise and diet for better results.

Personal training can be done part-time, which makes it a good fit if you have another job. Many people want training in the mornings, evenings, or weekends.

13. Etsy seller

Starting an Etsy shop can be a fun and rewarding second job. If you enjoy crafting or creating handmade items, this might be perfect for you. Etsy is a popular online marketplace where you can sell unique products.

There are many things you can sell on Etsy, such as:

Etsy can be a great way to turn your hobbies into extra income.

You can learn more at How To Sell On Etsy Successfully: A Beginner’s Guide.

14. Babysitter

Babysitting is a great way to earn extra money. You can choose your own hours, making it easy to fit it around your main job or school.

Parents always need trustworthy people to watch their kids, and they might need help for an evening out or during the day if they work long hours.

As a babysitter, you can earn around $15 to $25+ per hour, depending on your experience and location. Some families might even pay more if you have special skills, like CPR training or if you are watching multiple children.

You can find babysitting jobs through local community boards, babysitting apps, or word of mouth. Sometimes, friends or family might also need help.

15. Delivery driver

A delivery driver job is one of the most popular side hustle ideas. You don’t need a lot of experience to get started, and all you need is a vehicle and a driver’s license. Many services, like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart, let you choose your own hours. This flexibility is perfect if you have a busy schedule.

You can deliver different items depending on the service you work for. Some companies focus on food delivery, while others may deliver groceries or packages.

The pay can vary based on where you live and how much you work. Some drivers make around $15 to $25 per hour including tips.

16. Bartender

Bartending is a flexible and fun second job. You can work at bars, restaurants, or special events like weddings.

Some bartender jobs don’t require a lot of experience. You usually have to start as a barback, helping with stocking and cleaning, then learn to make drinks. Then, you may be able to move up and find a part-time job as a bartender.

17. Transcriptionist

Being a transcriptionist can be a great second job. Transcriptionists listen to audio recordings and type out what they hear. It’s a simple job and doesn’t require a lot of training.

You can do this job from home and all you need is a computer and good internet. This makes it a flexible option where you can work on transcriptions during your free time or on weekends.

There are usually some requirements. Many places want you to type fast and accurately. For others, you might need to pass a background check or transcription tests.

You can learn more at 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly.

18. Rent your extra space

Do you have an extra room, basement, or garage? Renting out your extra space can be a great way to earn some extra cash each month passively.

You can list your spare room on websites like Airbnb or Vrbo if it’s a room or apartment.

If you have a garage or storage space, you can rent it out for storage. Websites like Neighbor allow people to find storage options nearby.

Before you start, check local laws and regulations. Some areas have rules about renting out space, so it’s important to be informed.

19. Handyperson

Being a handyperson can be a great way to make extra money. You can help people fix things around their homes, such as fixing leaky faucets, repairing doors, or assembling furniture.

You don’t need fancy tools for many jobs, just a good set of basic tools.

Many people need small repairs done but don’t have the skills or time. That’s where you come in. You can find clients through local ads, word of mouth, or online platforms like Taskrabbit.

Working as a handyperson has flexibility too and you can choose jobs that fit your schedule.

20. Rideshare driver

Apps like Uber and Lyft allow you to drive people around and get paid for it.

One of the best parts about driving for rideshare apps is the flexibility. You can set your own hours and work whenever you want.

Most rideshare companies have an easy sign-up process. They usually require a background check, a valid driver’s license, and a car that meets their standards. Once approved, you can start accepting rides and earning money.

The earnings vary depending on your location, the time of day, and how many hours you drive. Some drivers make a nice side income by working during peak hours when rates are higher.

21. Restaurant server

Being a restaurant server can be a great way to earn extra money and is popular for evening second jobs. Many restaurants have flexible hours, which is perfect if you need to juggle another job or school.

Servers often get tips, so your income can vary day to day. Some nights are busier and can bring in more money.

22. Clean houses

Cleaning houses is a good way to earn extra money with a second job. You can work on the weekends or after your regular job.

Plus, you can choose your clients and set your own hours.

To get started, all you need are basic cleaning supplies. You can sell your services to friends and family first. Word-of-mouth is powerful, and you might get more clients through recommendations.

23. Write book reviews

If you enjoy reading and sharing your thoughts about books, you can earn money by writing book reviews. Authors and publishers value your honest opinions because they help other readers decide what to read next. Readers also enjoy reading these reviews, making it helpful for everyone involved.

Here are some websites where you can earn money by writing book reviews:

1. OnlineBookClub.org – They provide free books at first. After your first review, you can earn cash for each review you write, typically between $5 and $60.
2. Kirkus Media – They look for reviewers for both English and Spanish books, especially for the Kirkus Indie section. Reviews are around 350 words and due two weeks after the book assignment. They cover all genres, with over 10,000 books reviewed annually.
3. Upwork – Create a profile and set yourself up as a book reviewer. This freelance platform allows you to set your own rates, with book reviewing rates ranging from $15 to $75 per hour.
4. The US Review of Books – They hire freelance writers for 250- to 300-word reviews that go beyond summary to provide insights into the book. Applicants need to submit a resume, writing samples, and references.
5. Reedsy Discovery – Review books before they are published and earn through tips from readers, typically ranging from $1 to $5 per review. It’s a way to influence which books gain popularity early on.
6. Other opportunities – Websites like Booklist (pays $15 per review, focused on short reviews for libraries), BookBrowse, Women’s Review of Books, and Publishers Weekly also pay for book reviews and are actively looking for new reviewers.

You can learn more at 16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books.

24. Mow lawns

Mowing lawns can be a great second job. It’s simple, flexible, and very profitable.

You can start with not a lot of money too. For example, if you already have a lawn mower, you’re ready to go, and you can start by seeing if anyone in your neighborhood needs their lawn mowed.

Pricing your services depends on the size of the lawn and the complexity of the job. Some lawns might be easy and quick, others might take more time. Many people charge between $40 and $50+ per lawn.

Frequently Asked Questions

When looking for second job ideas, it’s important to find something that fits your schedule and goals. Here are answers to some common questions about picking the best side gig and managing two jobs.

What is the best 2nd job to have?

The best second job depends on your interests and skills. Some popular side hustle ideas include blogging, proofreading, taking online surveys, dog walking or pet sitting, and being a virtual assistant. These jobs have flexibility and can often be done from home.

What are some good jobs I can do at night after my day job?

Jobs you can do at night include customer service representative, security guard, bartender, or freelance work like writing and graphic design. These jobs usually have evening shifts or can be done remotely, fitting in well with a daytime schedule.

What are some good second jobs at night from home?

If you want to learn how to make extra income while working full-time, then my favorite way is to find good second jobs that you can work at night from home. This way, you don’t have a commute and it won’t interfere with your day job. Some good evening jobs from home include blogging, taking surveys, proofreading, bookkeeping, writing book reviews, and transcribing.

How can I make an extra $1000 a month?

To make an extra $1000 a month, you may want to try freelance writing, virtual assistant work, or becoming a part-time tutor. These jobs can pay well and offer flexible hours, allowing you to work around your primary job.

How can I make an extra $2000 a month?

Earning an extra $2000 a month may require a higher-paying side gig. Options include freelance web development, consulting, or starting a small business like dropshipping. These jobs can have higher earnings but may require more specialized skills or time investment.

How to get a second job with a 9-5?

You can get a second job with a nine-to-five by looking for evening or weekend positions and looking for jobs with flexible hours such as bartending, retail cashier, or working as a rideshare driver. Online jobs like tutoring or freelancing can also have nice flexibility to work after your main job.

What is the highest paying side hustle?

The highest-paying side hustles can include freelancing in tech fields like software development, graphic design, or consulting. Real estate investment, if you have the money to start investing, can also be very high paying.

Do you get taxed more if you have two jobs?

Having two jobs can put you in a higher tax bracket, meaning you might pay more in taxes. It’s important to understand how this affects your overall earnings. I recommend talking with a tax professional to talk about your tax situation and to make sure that you aren’t overpaying (or underpaying!).

How will my employer know if I have a second job?

Your employer may know if you have a second job if it affects your primary job performance or if you disclose it. Some employers also run social media checks to see if they can learn anything about you that may hurt their business. You may want to check your employment contract if you are worried, as some employers may have clauses about working multiple jobs.

Is having two jobs worth it?

Having two jobs can be worth it if you need extra income for savings, paying off debt, or reaching financial goals. It requires good time management and can be tiring, but many find the financial benefits to be rewarding. For me, I found having more than one job well worth it because it allowed me to pay off my student loan debt quickly, save more money, and pursue my passions.

Second Job Ideas – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on the best second job ideas.

As you can see, there are many popular second job ideas that may interest you. From online jobs like blogging, proofreading, and bookkeeping to in-person jobs like personal training, delivery, restaurant jobs, and more, there are many ways to make extra money so that you can reach your goals.

If you need a second job while working full-time, you are not alone. Many people are in your shoes. I recommend finding something that best fits your schedule and is at least somewhat flexible so that you aren’t making yourself too tired.

For me, I have had many side jobs. One thing that has always helped me is to make sure that it would fit with my day job and be flexible – because my day job did come first. Plus, I didn’t want to waste more time than I would need to by commuting back and forth or doing things that weren’t needed.

What do you think are the best second job ideas?

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