7 Awesome Job Ideas for Military Spouses

Posted by Mary Davis on Aug 14, 2012 in Blog, Financial Tips, Guide, Military | 0 comments

photo provided by Angela Archer

With most military families being uprooted every few years, it’s hard to create a long-lasting career path. There are so many factors to consider when choosing a career: part time or full time, the need for a college degree, work from home or in the office, choosing the right military loans to start a small side business. Having a good resume and listing your skill sets is a good first step, but with all the job options out there sometimes it’s hard to figure out what to do next.

That’s why we scouted the BEST jobs that fit the military lifestyle, making sure that transferability and sustainability were top factors. Here’s what jobs topped our list:

Be The Tax Prep Guru

If you happen to be the type of person that loves to crunch numbers and fill out forms, then maybe becoming a tax preparer is the right fit for you. Some of the main reasons are:

• everyone needs their taxes done each year – so you’ll always be in high demand!
• it can be a part-time or a full time gig
• you can work from home if you want
• if you move, don’t sweat it – the job goes with you

Obviously your busiest season will be right around tax time (February 1- April 15), but it’s nice to know that the federal tax laws are the same across the board. There’s no pressure to have a college degree in this field (though if you’re really passionate you may want to look into a degree as a CPA). Or you can enroll in an Income Tax Course from a nationwide company like H&R Block. The classes are short (around 75 hours total), extensive—you’ll learn everything you need to know, and best of all they’re usually free!

Tap Into the Healthcare Industry

The need for healthcare professionals has been steady nationwide, so most likely anywhere you go there will be a need for something in the medical field. There are tons of jobs in healthcare that don’t require a degree; dental assistants, clinical and medical lab techs, personal care aides, medical record techs, nutritionists, orderlies, and many more. You just have to choose one that fits your taste and you’re set where ever you move.

Pharmacy Technician

It seems like these days there are pharmacies on every corner. The good thing about that is each one needs a handful of pharmacy technicians. To become one you don’t need a college degree, instead you can look into a simple 3-12 month Pharmacy Technician on-the-job training program. You can also do a formal technician education program, but it takes a bit longer, six months to two years. Also a perk with this position, it pays pretty darn well.

Babysit the Neighborhood Kids

If you’re new to an area and need to make connections, start a babysitting service on base by talking to other military spouses. Your clientele is right in your backyard! One of the perks with this gig is that it can be a part-time or full-time job depending on your schedule. Even better, think about getting first aid and CPR certified – the neighborhood parents will appreciate it.

Just be aware that in some states there is a certain limit of children one person can watch. And make sure you claim your income on your taxes (as many people report the money they spend on childcare on their own taxes).

Top Notch Teacher’s Assistant

So maybe you wanted to teach but your certification didn’t transfer or you haven’t quite finished your degree yet, a teacher’s aide might be the perfect job for you. You still get the joys of working with kids in a classroom environment without the stress of lesson plans, grading, and after-school teachers’ meetings. Requirements for teacher assistant positions vary by state and school district but most do not require a degree.

Bank of Baking

Baking cupcakes, cakes, cookies, or cake pops can be a simple in home operation, especially if you’re already pretty good at baking. You can turn a hobby into cash. Consider taking classes at local craft stores and bakeries to advance your skills. But make sure you read up on state laws as some states prohibit the sale of baked goods out of the home while others allow it but have certain regulations you must follow.

Make Your Crafting Hobby Your Online Business

Nowadays, it’s become easier than ever before to set up an e-commerce shop and sell anything handmade. Why not share your talent with the rest of the world and make a profit at the same time? A lot of military spouses have jumped onto platforms like Etsy to start a side businesses. Create something you love to sell in your shop, maybe you like to sew kids clothes, or knit, or quilt, or paint. And the best thing about this option is that you can do it all from your own home!

As a military spouse, it’s hard finding the right job to fit your ever transient lifestyle. Hopefully these jobs have given you a springboard of ideas for your job hunt. Best of luck!

What jobs have you held as a military spouse? What advice can you share about your experiences?