Best Flexible Jobs for Single Mothers

15 Flexible Careers for Single Mothers in 2025: A Practical Guide

Last updated: August 2025

Main points

• You’ll find 15 career paths that fit real-life parenting: remote roles, shift work, part‑time options, and jobs that line up with school hours.
• For each career: what it is, pay, training time, how to start, pros, and “reality checks.”
• Clear, official links to pay/outlook (BLS), training help (Pell Grants, WIOA), childcare aid (CCDF), and job-finding tools.
• Upfront help if you need immediate assistance today.

If you need help today

• Call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (free, 24/7): https://988lifeline.org
• Dial 211 or visit 211.org to find local food, shelter, bills, and childcare help: https://www.211.org
• Domestic violence help (24/7): National Domestic Violence Hotline 800‑799‑SAFE (7233), chat and info: https://www.thehotline.org
• Housing help: find a HUD-approved housing counselor: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor
• Food benefits: apply for SNAP through your state via USDA’s state directory: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory
• WIC for women, infants, and children (nutrition): check your state WIC office: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/wic-contacts
• Childcare assistance (CCDF): start at ChildCare.gov (state-by-state info): https://childcare.gov
• Utilities help: LIHEAP (energy bills) state directory: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/liheap-state-and-territory-contact-listing
• Job and training help near you: Find an American Job Center (free): https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/AmericanJobCenters/find-american-job-centers.aspx

About this guide’s sources

• Pay and job outlook come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook.
• Training and benefits links go to official government or well‑established organizations (IRS, HHS, DOL, USDA, state portals, well-known credentialing bodies).

What “flexible” means here

• Remote: you can do it from home (full or part‑time).
• Shift-based: you can work evenings, nights, weekends, or 12‑hour shifts to cluster days on vs. off.
• Part-time: common and accepted in the field.
• School-hours friendly: usually daytime hours that overlap with K‑12 schedules.

Table 1 – 15 flexible careers at a glance (training time, pay, flexibility)

Links to BLS entries:

• Medical records specialists: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-records-specialists.htm
• Bookkeeping/accounting clerks: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/bookkeeping-accounting-and-auditing-clerks.htm
• Dental hygienists: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-hygienists.htm
• Pharmacy technicians: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacy-technicians.htm
• Medical assistants: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm
• Computer support specialists: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm
• Web developers/digital designers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm
• Graphic designers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/graphic-designers.htm
• Technical writers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/technical-writers.htm
• Paralegals: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm
• Real estate sales agents: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/real-estate-brokers-and-sales-agents.htm
• Home health/personal care aides: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home-health-aides-and-personal-care-aides.htm
• Interpreters/translators: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/interpreters-and-translators.htm
• Project management specialists: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/project-management-specialists.htm
• Short‑term substitute teachers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/substitute-teachers.htm

Reality check before you start

• Childcare coverage is the make‑or‑break factor. Look for roles you can do during school hours, or cluster shifts when you have backup care. Apply for childcare assistance early: https://childcare.gov
• Training can be short, but classes and clinicals still need reliable care and transport. Ask the school about evening cohorts, weekend labs, and on‑site childcare.
• Watch out for “too good to be true” remote job postings. The FTC explains common job scams and red flags: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/job-scams

How to pay for training (official links)

• Pell Grants (you don’t repay) for eligible programs at accredited schools: https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants/pell
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) training funds and career services via your local American Job Center: https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/AmericanJobCenters/american-job-centers.aspx
• Registered Apprenticeships (earn while you learn): https://www.apprenticeship.gov
• SNAP Employment & Training (if you get SNAP in your state): https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/et
• Childcare help while you work or train (CCDF): https://childcare.gov/help/programs/child-care-financial-assistance

Table 2 – Fast training options and starter credentials

Now, let’s walk through each career

1. Medical records specialist (medical coder)

• What you do: Turn doctor notes and hospital procedures into standardized codes for billing and insurance. Strong fit for detail‑oriented people who want quiet, heads‑down work.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $47,180. See BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-records-specialists.htm
• Flexibility: Many coders work fully remote or hybrid after training/probation. Part‑time exists with experience.
• Training: 4–12 months certificate. Common certs: CPC (AAPC) or CCA/CCS (AHIMA).
• Where jobs are: Hospitals, clinics, billing companies, insurers.
• Reality check: Productivity quotas are normal. Entry‑level remote roles are competitive; many employers want on‑site experience first.
• First 30 days plan:
  1. Compare programs on your state’s Eligible Training Provider List via your American Job Center.
  2. Ask about remote practice tools and job placement rates.
  3. Apply for Pell/WIOA and childcare help (ChildCare.gov).
  4. Begin medical terminology and anatomy modules.

2. Bookkeeper/payroll specialist

• What you do: Track income/expenses, reconcile accounts, run payroll and basic reports for small businesses.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $47,440. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/bookkeeping-accounting-and-auditing-clerks.htm
• Flexibility: Popular remote and freelance path; many part‑time clients.
• Training: 3–12 months. Useful: QuickBooks ProAdvisor; AIPB Certified Bookkeeper.
• Reality check: This field sees automation. The opportunity is in client service: clean books, clear communication, and payroll compliance.
• First 30 days: Complete QuickBooks basics, set up a simple portfolio (sample chart of accounts, mock P&L), and join your local Small Business Development Center (free advising): https://americassbdc.org/find-your-sbdc/

3. Dental hygienist

• What you do: Preventive dental care (cleanings, x‑rays, patient education).
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $81,400. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-hygienists.htm
• Flexibility: Many offices offer 2–4 days/week. School‑hours schedules are common.
• Training: 2–3 years at a CODA‑accredited program; state license required.
• Reality check: Physical work; childcare needed during clinical rotations.
• First 30 days: Meet an admissions advisor, map prerequisites, and ask about evening/weekend cohorts and waitlists.

4. Pharmacy technician

• What you do: Fill prescriptions, manage inventory, handle patient intake under a pharmacist’s supervision.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $39,280. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacy-technicians.htm
• Flexibility: Options in retail (evenings/weekends) and hospitals (24/7 shifts).
• Training: 4–12 months; certifications: PTCB CPhT or NHA ExCPT; state registration/licensing varies.
• Reality check: Retail can be fast‑paced with customer volume; hospital roles may pay more but can require nights/weekends.
• First 30 days: Compare accredited programs, ask about externship placement rates, and check your state’s licensing rules.

5. Medical assistant

• What you do: Room patients, take vitals, handle scheduling and records in clinics.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $41,420. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm
• Flexibility: Many clinics run weekday shifts; pediatric and family practices often align with school hours.
• Training: 9–12 months certificate; CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) can help with jobs.
• Reality check: Front desk and back‑office tasks mix; pay varies by setting.
• First 30 days: Visit two local clinics to ask what credentials they value; enroll in an accredited program; apply for Pell/WIOA.

6. IT support specialist (help desk)

• What you do: Solve user tech issues, set up accounts, troubleshoot hardware/software.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $62,760. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm
• Flexibility: Many remote or hybrid roles; some 24/7 teams allow evening shifts.
• Training: 3–9 months; CompTIA A+ is a common entry cert.
• Reality check: Ticket queues can be high; communication matters as much as technical skill.
• First 30 days: Start A+ prep, build a small home lab, and create a resume that lists hands‑on projects (install OS, set up a VPN, fix a Wi‑Fi issue).

7. Web developer (front‑end focus)

• What you do: Build and maintain websites and web apps.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $92,750. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm
• Flexibility: Remote and freelance are common.
• Training: 6–18 months for entry portfolio; community college or structured online paths.
• Reality check: Portfolio matters more than certificates. Start small, ship real sites.
• First 30 days: Launch a simple personal site and one community project (e.g., a local nonprofit site) to show live work.

8. Graphic designer

• What you do: Create layouts, brand assets, social graphics, and marketing materials.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $58,910. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/graphic-designers.htm
• Flexibility: Freelance and remote gigs; part‑time roles exist.
• Training: 6–18 months to build a practical portfolio; short courses can help.
• Reality check: Clients often want quick turnarounds. Set clear boundaries and rush fees.
• First 30 days: Build 3–5 portfolio pieces (logo, one‑pager, social set). Learn Canva and one pro tool (Adobe or Affinity).

9. Technical writer

• What you do: Turn complex info into clear how‑tos, manuals, and help content.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $80,050. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/technical-writers.htm
• Flexibility: Many remote roles; contract gigs are common.
• Training: Portfolio-based; short courses help. Knowledge in software or healthcare is a plus.
• Reality check: Interviews often include a paid or unpaid writing test. Keep samples ready.
• First 30 days: Write two step‑by‑step guides for tools you already use (e.g., “How to set up parental controls on Android”), publish on a portfolio site.

10. Paralegal/legal assistant

• What you do: Support attorneys with research, drafting, filing, and case management.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $60,970. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm
• Flexibility: Some hybrid roles; part‑time in smaller firms.
• Training: 12–24 months; ABA‑approved programs look good.
• Reality check: Deadlines are strict; overtime can happen before filings or trials.
• First 30 days: Speak with two local firms about preferred credentials; explore your state courts’ e‑filing rules to get familiar.

11. Real estate sales agent

• What you do: Help clients buy/sell/rent properties; earn commissions.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $52,030. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/real-estate-brokers-and-sales-agents.htm
• Flexibility: Self‑scheduled; evenings/weekends for showings; admin work from home.
• Training: State pre‑licensing course + exam; join a brokerage.
• Reality check: Income is irregular; plan a savings buffer and mind taxes (quarterly estimated taxes). IRS self‑employed guidance: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/self-employed-individuals-tax-center
• First 30 days: Compare local brokerages’ training and splits; take a test prep class; block childcare for exam day.

12. Home health/personal care aide

• What you do: Help clients at home with daily living and basic health tasks.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $33,530. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home-health-aides-and-personal-care-aides.htm
• Flexibility: Many agencies offer part‑time, short visits, evenings/weekends.
• Training: Often weeks; requirements vary by state and employer; some provide paid training.
• Reality check: Physical work; reliable transportation is key. Confirm mileage pay.
• First 30 days: Apply to two agencies; ask about consistent caseloads near your home and family‑friendly scheduling.

13. Interpreter/translator

• What you do: Convert spoken or written content between languages; medical and legal niches pay better.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $57,090. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/interpreters-and-translators.htm
• Flexibility: Remote and contract options; you set availability.
• Training: Skill‑based; certifications can help (e.g., state court interpreter, CCHI/NBCMI for medical).
• Reality check: Hospitals and courts require high accuracy and may require certification and background checks.
• First 30 days: Assess your target niche; check your state court interpreter program; review medical interpreter certification options: CCHI https://cchicertification.org and NBCMI https://www.certifiedmedicalinterpreters.org

14. Project management specialist

• What you do: Plan projects, timelines, budgets; keep teams on track.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $95,370. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/project-management-specialists.htm
• Flexibility: Many hybrid and remote roles.
• Training: CAPM (entry) in a few months; PMP requires verified experience (PMI: https://www.pmi.org)
• Reality check: Meetings span time zones; strong calendar boundaries help.
• First 30 days: Map your experience (even unpaid projects) to PM skills; start CAPM study plan; learn one tool (Asana, Trello, MS Project).

15. Substitute teacher

• What you do: Fill in for K‑12 teachers on short notice or planned leave.
• Pay and outlook: May 2023 median pay $44,710. BLS: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/substitute-teachers.htm
• Flexibility: You choose the days; school-hours align with childcare.
• Training: State and district rules vary; many require a background check and HS diploma or some college.
• Reality check: Notice can be same‑day; have morning childcare backup.
• First 30 days: Check your school district’s substitute application, required credentials, and orientation dates.

Table 3 – Matching your schedule to childcare

Getting help paying for life while you train or switch

• Childcare assistance (CCDF): Helps with paying a licensed provider while you work or attend approved training. Start here: https://childcare.gov
• SNAP (food benefits): Eligibility is state-specific; check the USDA directory: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory
• WIC: Nutrition support during pregnancy and for young children: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/wic-contacts
• TANF (cash aid/work supports): Apply through your state human services site; overview: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ofa/programs/tanf
• Medicaid and CHIP: Low-cost/free coverage for eligible adults and kids: https://www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/
• Health coverage marketplace: Compare plans and savings: https://www.healthcare.gov
• LIHEAP (energy bills): State contacts: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/liheap-state-and-territory-contact-listing
• EITC and Child Tax Credit: Check eligibility and file: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc and https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/child-tax-credit

Table 4 – Programs at a glance (what they do, who they help)

Inclusive guidance (read this if it applies to you)

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • Workplace rights: Federal law forbids employment discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. See EEOC guidance: https://www.eeoc.gov/lgbtq
  • Health coverage: Marketplace plans must cover essential benefits; compare options and networks: https://www.healthcare.gov
  • Name/gender marker updates for work documents: Check your state DMV and SSA processes (Social Security card updates): https://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/
• Tribal-specific resources
  • Tribal TANF: Some tribes run their own TANF programs with culturally specific services: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ofa/programs/tribal/tribal-tanf
  • BIA Job Placement & Training: Employment and training assistance for eligible American Indians and Alaska Natives: https://www.bia.gov/service/job-placement-and-training
  • Indian Health Service scholarships and workforce programs (for health careers): https://www.ihs.gov/scholarship/
• Rural single-parent families
  • Transportation: Ask your Medicaid plan about non‑emergency medical transportation if eligible: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/non-emergency-medical-transportation/index.html
  • Internet/phone discounts: FCC Lifeline helps eligible households with phone/internet service: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
  • Training close to home: Many community colleges offer hybrid programs; find them via your American Job Center.
• Single fathers
  • Most programs above serve parents regardless of gender. If you need support, check Fatherhood.gov (resources and local programs): https://www.fatherhood.gov
  • Child support and parenting time help: State child support agencies directory (HHS): https://www.acf.hhs.gov/css/child-support-program

How to find real jobs and avoid scams

• Use official job boards and local help:
  • American Job Centers: free resume help and vetted training: https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp
  • USAJOBS for federal work (some remote): https://www.usajobs.gov
• Red flags (FTC): upfront fees for a job, requests to buy gift cards, interviews on messaging apps only, or “send us your bank info to get hired.” Learn more: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/job-scams
• Protect your time: Keep a simple spreadsheet of applications, interviews, and deadlines.

Funding your pivot without sinking the budget

• Stack resources: Pell Grants + WIOA + CCDF can work together if your program is eligible. Confirm with each agency first.
• Ask schools about emergency grants, loaner laptops, bus passes, or on‑campus childcare.
• Taxes: If you freelance or work on commission, plan for quarterly estimated taxes and track expenses. IRS guide: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/self-employed-individuals-tax-center

FAQs – Common questions single moms ask

• Which career is the most flexible right away?
  • Substitute teaching and home health often let you choose days quickly. Remote admin or bookkeeping gigs can be flexible once you land clients. Check pay and benefits before committing (BLS links above).
• What can I start in under a year?
  • Medical coding, pharmacy tech, medical assistant, IT support, and some paralegal certificates can be completed in 4–12 months, depending on the program and your pace. Verify accreditation and eligibility for Pell/WIOA.
• Can I get childcare help while I’m in school?
  • Many states allow childcare assistance while you attend approved training. Start at ChildCare.gov and ask your caseworker to confirm your program is eligible.
• What if I have a resume gap?
  • List relevant skills from home life and community (scheduling, budgeting, caregiving logistics), add short coursework, and include two recent projects (even volunteer or portfolio pieces).
• How do I find legitimate remote jobs?
  • Search for “remote” on reputable boards, filter by employer sites, and check company info on the Secretary of State’s business search or LinkedIn. Never pay for access to a job. See FTC job-scam tips: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/job-scams
• I have a record. Can I still work in healthcare or with kids?
  • Some roles require background checks or have restrictions by state. Ask the program/school and check your state licensing board early in the process.
• How do I pay for an exam or certification fee?
  • Ask your American Job Center about WIOA support vouchers; some programs include one exam attempt. SNAP E&T may help if you’re eligible: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/et
• What about benefits and the “benefits cliff”?
  • Before taking new hours or a raise, talk to a caseworker about how your benefits may change. Use Benefits.gov to check programs: https://www.benefits.gov
• Is real estate safe for single parents with irregular hours?
  • It can work if you have backup childcare for evenings/weekends and a savings buffer for months with low closings. Learn your local market and build a referral pipeline.
• Can I change careers after 35 or 40?
  • Yes. Employers care about reliability and recent skills. Short, targeted training plus a few practical projects can open doors.

Your first 2 weeks: a simple, steady plan

1. Pick 2–3 target roles that truly match your schedule and childcare situation.
2. Visit your American Job Center to map training funds and timeline: https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp
3. Apply for childcare assistance and get on provider waitlists now: https://childcare.gov
4. Start one no‑cost skill builder (e.g., A+ prep video series, medical terminology, or a small web project).
5. Set a weekly routine: two 90‑minute study blocks, one applications block, one admin block (benefits paperwork, childcare calls).

Resources by region (find your local office fast)

• American Job Centers (career and training help): https://www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/AmericanJobCenters/american-job-centers.aspx
• Find training programs near you (CareerOneStop Training Finder): https://www.careeronestop.org/FindTraining
• Apprenticeship search (all states): https://www.apprenticeship.gov
• State childcare assistance contacts: https://childcare.gov/state-resources
• SNAP and WIC state offices: SNAP https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory | WIC https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/wic-contacts
• Medicaid/CHIP by state: https://www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/
• Housing help: HUD-approved housing counselors: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor
• Legal aid (civil): Legal Services Corporation finder: https://www.lsc.gov/about-lsc/what-legal-aid/find-legal-aid

Quick reality reminders

• Commutes cost time and money. Prioritize close-to-home employers or remote roles.
• For shift work, plan backup childcare and a “late pickup” plan with the provider in writing.
• Keep copies of vaccines, background checks, and CPR cards; many health and education roles require them.
• Document everything: schedules, communications, and caseworker notes.

Disclaimer
Program rules, pay rates, and licensing requirements change. Always verify details with your state agencies, licensing boards, schools, and employers. Wage figures are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023) unless noted. Links are provided for your convenience; confirm current information on the official sites.

About this guide

• Who it’s for: Single parents who need flexible, realistic career paths with clear steps and official resources.
• How it was built: Outlook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and other official sources; training and benefits references link to government or well‑established organizations. This guide avoids hype and focuses on practical next steps.