Retirement often means saying goodbye to full-time work, but it does not have to mean saying goodbye to earning. If you are relying solely on Social Security and finding it is not quite enough, seasonal jobs can be a smart way to earn extra while staying flexible. Here are ten seasonal roles where retirees can earn $20 or more per hour, enjoy predictable schedules and meaningful work, and maintain their lifestyle without sliding back into full employment.
What seasonal jobs pay retirees $20+ an hour?
Here are ten seasonal options that fit the bill. You can pick one (or a few) that match your strengths and interests:
1. Fruit picker – working outdoors during harvest time
If you enjoy being outside and do not mind moderate physical work, fruit picking can be a great seasonal option. During harvest seasons many farms hire workers for apple, berry, or grape picking. You can earn up to $20 per hour doing this. It offers fresh air, physical activity, and a predictable timeframe.
2. Supermarket or grocery shopper – part-time delivery work
With the growth of home-delivery services, retirees can step in to pick and pack grocery orders or shop for customers through delivery platforms. Many earn between $300 and $500 weekly, depending on hours worked, which easily translates to $20 or more per hour.
- You already know how to shop efficiently.
- It is flexible and low stress.
- It keeps you moving without being too physical.
3. Remote customer-service agent – from your home
For retirees comfortable on the phone and seeking flexible hours, remote customer service is a great fit. The job often pays up to $20 per hour and removes commuting. This is ideal when you prefer indoor work and a calm environment.
4. Gift-wrapper in retail during holidays
During busy holiday seasons, many stores hire wrap stations or seasonal support staff. The pay can reach $20 per hour, making it a clever fit for retirees with patience and good presentation skills. It is short-term, festive, and low on physical strain.
5. Driver (delivery or food/package)—high flexibility
If you like driving, this might work well. Delivery drivers or food couriers hired during peak seasons can earn up to $28 per hour. You choose your hours, stay mobile, and often work independently while listening to music or podcasts.
6. Worker in national or state parks or tourist sites
Seasonal employment in parks or resorts can offer around $25 per hour. If you love travel, nature, and meeting people, this could combine income with adventure. Some park employers even provide accommodation for those with RVs.
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7. Luxury-retail associate during peak shopping periods
High-end stores often pay more during busy seasons. Pay rates of $20 per hour (and sometimes more) are common for retirees taking on temporary roles. If you have a knack for customer service and enjoy meeting people, this may suit you well.
8. Tutor (academic or language) during school breaks
Tutoring remains one of the highest-paying flexible options you can get. Your rates can be up to $60 per hour, which is possible if you already have experience in teaching.
You can set your own schedule, teach subjects you already know well, or work in person or online from home.
9. Nanny or childcare provider for holiday breaks
During school holidays, parents who need assistance usually look for trustworthy persons to take care of their kids. Their hourly rate could be up to $23. If you like kids, this job can be a good one for you.
10. Usher at theatres or event venues during festive seasons
Working evenings at cinemas, theatres, or event centers can earn you about $20 an hour, especially when demand spikes. It involves minimal physical strain, offers a friendly social atmosphere, and lets you stay active in your community.
Why pick seasonal work instead of a regular job?
Seasonal work are good for you as a retiree because you get control over your schedule and that means you can choose when and how much work you do.
The work allows you to get a break from relying only on Social Security, giving you extra financial cushion, plus you remain active and engaged, which helps your overall wellbeing.
You can also match the job to times of the year when you are available rather than committing year-round.
How to get started
- Make a short list of two or three roles that sound best to you.
- Search online job boards with terms like “seasonal jobs for retirees” or “holiday retail associate.”
- Ask local businesses, farms, or parks about seasonal openings.
- Update your résumé to highlight reliability, communication skills, and experience.
- Stay flexible but set limits so you do not overcommit and still enjoy retirement.
