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10 High-Paying Part-Time Jobs Where You Can Earn at Least $40 an Hour

Work less and earn more with these part-time jobs paying over $40 an hour.

By Esther Lombardi

Updated Feb. 9, 2026

For many people, flexibility isn't just a perk. It's a necessity. Whether you're caregiving, semi-retired, or simply looking for better balance, it's now possible to earn a strong income without working full-time.

These 10 part-time jobs pay $40 per hour or more and offer a variety of work styles, from creative to technical, healthcare to finance. Some require advanced degrees or licenses, while others value experience and portfolio work. But all of them let you work on your terms.

Here are some of the highest-paying part-time gigs worth exploring.

Technical writer

Median hourly wage: $44.07

Technical writers turn complex topics into clear, easy-to-understand documents. Think instruction manuals, how-to guides, or policy documents. It's a great role for anyone with strong communication skills and a background in writing, especially in tech or science.

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Dental hygienist

Median hourly wage: $45.32

This healthcare job offers high pay and strong demand, all with part-time potential. Most dental hygienists hold an associate degree and state licensure, which means you can enter the field faster than many other health roles.

UX/UI designer

Median hourly wage: $45.85

UX/UI designers shape how people experience websites, apps, and digital tools. If you're creative and enjoy working with design platforms like Figma, along with some coding knowledge, this field offers both flexibility and strong income.

Web developer

Median hourly wage: $45.85

Web developers build and maintain websites, often on a freelance or part-time basis. The more coding languages you know (like HTML, CSS, or JavaScript), the more in-demand your skills can be. It's a future-proof skill set that grows with experience.

Clinical research coordinator

Median hourly wage: $48.36

This job involves helping manage clinical trials for new medical treatments. Many coordinators hold a degree in science or healthcare, and the work can be done part-time depending on the trial's needs.

Physical therapist

Median hourly wage: $48.57

With a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and appropriate licensure, you can work flexible hours helping clients recover strength and mobility. Weekend and per-diem shifts are often available, making this a rewarding part-time health role.

Financial analyst

Median hourly wage: $48.99

Financial analysts review data, build reports, and help businesses make smarter money decisions. While a bachelor's degree is typically required, some analysts pursue the CFA designation to unlock higher-paying roles, even on a part-time basis.

Investment advisor

Median hourly wage: $49.11

Licensed investment advisors help clients build wealth through strategic planning and portfolio management. With a Series 7 and 66 license, you can start part-time, meet with clients on your schedule, and potentially build a long-term business.

Data scientist

Median hourly wage: $54.13

Data scientists extract insights from data to guide business or policy decisions. Part-time and freelance roles are common, especially for those with skills in Python, R, or machine learning. A bachelor's degree is often enough to get started.

Public relations manager

Median hourly wage: $63.88

PR managers shape how companies and individuals are seen by the public. They create compelling stories, handle crisis communication, and manage media relationships. A communications or PR degree is often helpful, and many projects can be managed on a part-time or freelance basis.

Bottom line

The traditional 40-hour workweek isn't the only way to earn a solid living. Whether you're pursuing a new career or scaling back your hours, these part-time roles show that high income and flexibility can go hand in hand.

With the right certifications, experience, or portfolio, you can build a part-time career that supports your lifestyle and helping you get ahead financially, all while working where and when it works best for you.

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Editor's Note: Portions of this story were drafted with assistance from generative AI tools. All final creative decisions, edits, and fact checking were done by human writers and editors.