- There is a variety of entry-level to advanced remote positions across most industries.
- Remote work offers advantages, such as reduced commutes and expenses, but can pose challenges, including home distractions and schedule consistency.
- Remote work generally only requires a computer and internet connection, and most people can start working remotely if they have relevant skills and experience.
According to data scientists at Ladders, remote professional jobs will increase from 15-percent to 25-percent by the end of 2022. With remote workers enjoying greater productivity and improved work-life balance, remote life is here to stay.
There are a variety of jobs available across many industries, with positions ranging from entry-level to advanced. This guide will review the top remote jobs in the United States.
Pros and Cons of Work From Home Jobs
Without the 30-minute or longer commute to and from work, remote workers save on fuel and time costs. Remote workers can take advantage of the savings that come with eating at home during the workday and don’t need to buy expensive office clothing. Many reports show that workers are more productive when they’re home, and workers can enjoy a flexible schedule and work-life balance.
There are a few drawbacks to consider when working from home. Distractions such as children or pets can derail a work day, but working all day with little social interaction can lead to burnout. Some people also struggle with keeping a consistent and disciplined work schedule.
Where to Find Remote Jobs
You’re not limited by geography or local job markets with remote work and can access a much larger pool of job opportunities. However, finding a remote job may present a few challenges that require a strategic approach.
If you’re already working in a role that you can perform from home, you may be able to discuss work-from-home options with your manager. If you’re searching for a new position, you can narrow search criteria on job boards to include terms such as “virtual,” “work-at-home” or “remote.”
Keep in mind that some job descriptions may advertise remote work opportunities that are actually hybrid in-person roles. Watch out for scams, which usually ask for money or sensitive information to apply or work.
1. Data Entry Clerk
The day-to-day tasks of data entry clerks involve manually transferring data from one source to a new database as well as backing up media files and transcribing notes. Data entry clerks may also perform administrative tasks such as filing or answering phones.
Most data entry jobs don’t require significant education or experience, but employers generally expect candidates to have excellent attention to detail and accuracy, basic computer knowledge, and organizational skills. Data entry clerks earn an average of $32,411 per year.
2. Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants perform administrative tasks for clients from their home offices. Typical duties include scheduling appointments, coordinating travel arrangements, making and receiving phone calls, and communicating over email. They may take on additional tasks such as bookkeeping, social media posts, and other clerical duties.
Although virtual assistants don’t need formal education, most jobs prefer candidates with backgrounds in clerical or administrative roles. They should be proficient with computers and business programs. Virtual assistants make an average of $37,023 per year.
3. Bookkeeper or Accountant
Although some companies hire remote bookkeepers and accountants for their payroll, many professionals work on a contract or freelance basis with several clients and companies. Virtual bookkeepers and accountants use cloud-based software to perform day-to-day tasks such as data entry and record-keeping, expense management, and payroll. Accountants can perform more advanced tasks such as financial projections and analysis, compliance needs, and taxes.
Bookkeepers don’t need special certifications, but accountants can earn a CPA license and qualification to work with tax, risk, and compliance matters.
Bookkeepers earn an average salary of $34,883, and accountants earn about $56,364 annually.
4. Content Creator or Manager
Content creators produce materials intended to inform and entertain brand audiences. Typical tasks include writing blogs and articles, creating social media posts, and producing other types of media. As such, content writers, influencers, graphic designers, and other professionals fall under this category.
Content managers possess expertise in digital marketing and are responsible for developing and implementing content marketing strategies and managing content creators. Some companies employ content creators, but many also outsource contractors or freelancers.
Content creators earn an average of $48,082 per year, and content managers earn about $75,672 per year.
Shutterstock/13_Phunkod5. Marketing Manager
Marketing managers are responsible for developing and implementing overall marketing strategies for their company or client. Their tasks involve researching the market and current trends, identifying marketing goals, developing and implementing strategies, and collaborating with marketing teams.
Most employers require marketing managers to have a degree in marketing or a related field and generally prefer prior experience. Important skills and knowledge include SEO expertise, social media, marketing strategies, communication, and leadership. Marketing managers make an average of $104,295 per year.
6. Online Teacher
Elementary schools, colleges, professional schools, and many other types of educational institutions have a growing need for online teachers and tutors. Remote teachers connect with students all around the world using videoconferencing tools, prerecorded audio or video, webinars, and more. Teachers create class or course schedules, deliver planned lessons, and grade assignments and exams.
Remote teachers should be able to comfortably use various teaching tools and software. Depending on the level or area, teachers generally need a university degree and related training in their field. Remote teachers earn an average salary of $51,078.
7. Developer
As the tech industry grows, more jobs for remote developers become available. There are many kinds of developers, but each essentially develops and designs electronic devices, programs, and applications. They are responsible for tasks such as debugging existing software, designing algorithms, and launching projects.
There are several paths to becoming a developer, such as post-secondary education or professional training programs, but employers are mainly concerned that developers possess strong programming language, problem-solving and organizational skills. Developers earn an average salary of $97,763.
8. Customer Service Representative
Remote customer service representatives handle customer phone calls, emails, instant messages, and other forms of communication to manage questions or concerns. Some of their responsibilities include providing information about company products or services, assisting with billing, and resolving customer complaints.
Most companies prefer customer service representatives to have relevant experience but often provide customer service training programs. Conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and organization are valuable traits in this role. Customer service representatives earn an average salary of $33,648.
9. Paralegal
Businesses, law firms, and individual attorneys either directly employ remote paralegals or hire their services on a freelance or contract basis. Paralegals may perform tasks such as legal research, organizing documents, filing with government agencies, and other types of legal administration. Some paralegals specialize in certain areas of the law, such as corporate or criminal law.
Many paralegals progress into their roles through prior general administration roles, but many obtain formal degrees or certificates. Paralegals should possess strong communication, research, organizational and ethical skills. They earn an average salary of $54,690.
10. Photographer
Adventurous job seekers may enjoy life as a remote photographer as they travel to various destinations and take on a diverse array of photography projects. Many also work largely from home as they complete administrative tasks, edit photos and organize printing or digital distribution. Remote photographers work with clients and complete the project according to goals and specifications, and they generally work on a freelance, contract, or retainer basis.
The career path for photographers varies, but these professionals generally need proficiency in photography and editing software and should have equipment such as a camera, computer, and other accessories. Many photographers build their portfolios throughout a photography degree program or as they gradually build a client base. Photographers make an average salary of $65,765.
