If you’re reading this, chances are life hasn’t exactly gone according to plan. Divorce, single parenthood, or career gaps might have you feeling overwhelmed, but remember: you’re not alone—and you definitely aren’t stuck. I’ve been there too, facing a career comeback after years at home with kids and zero confidence.
Returning to work is crucial for rebuilding your independence. Finding the right kind of jobs for single moms is important. Even part-time work can help. Relying on your ex-husband for alimony and/or child support indefinitely isn’t sustainable or empowering. It’s essential for both you and your kids that you can contribute financially and emotionally. As my mom always told me “A Man is Not a Financial Plan.”
I experienced tremendous guilt when I first left my kids to commute into an office. The daily commute and separation were brutal. However, times have changed significantly, that was pre-Covid, and working from home wasn’t really a thing. Now, there are countless ways to start your career journey right from home. If you have the option to work remotely and flexibly, I highly recommend embracing it. Eventually, you’ll also need to consider healthcare benefits. You will want to make sure to save for retirement. Looking at companies that provide these can be beneficial long-term.
Here are five realistic, mom-friendly flexible jobs for single moms you can jump into right from your home, pajamas optional. :
1. Virtual Assistant
Think of this as being the right-hand helper to busy entrepreneurs. Tasks include scheduling, email management, and social media support. Virtual assistants provide administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs from a remote location. Tasks can include managing emails, scheduling appointments, handling social media, and more. This role offers flexible working hours. You also have the ability to work from home. It is an ideal option for single moms. With the right organizational skills, single moms can efficiently manage their workload. A reliable internet connection allows them to attend to family needs at the same time.
2. Freelance Writer/Editor
Got a knack for words? Write blogs, emails, or website copy and get paid per project. Freelance writing offers the opportunity to work on many different projects. These can range from blog posts and articles to marketing content and technical writing. Single moms can choose assignments that fit their interests and expertise. They can work at their own pace. They can also work on their own schedule. This flexibility makes it easier to balance work with family responsibilities. Additionally, freelance writing can be a lucrative career with the potential for growth and specialization.
- Perfect because: Write during naps or after bedtime.
- Where to start: SolidGigs, ProBlogger
3. Social Media Manager
Manage and grow brand accounts on Instagram, Pinterest, or TikTok. Social media managers help businesses build their online presence. They create and curate content. They also engage with followers and analyze performance metrics. This role can be performed remotely and often allows for flexible working hours. These are great jobs for single moms who love social media. They can leverage their social media skills to manage multiple accounts. They provide valuable services to clients while maintaining a balanced lifestyle. The growing importance of social media in marketing makes this a promising career choice.
4. Online Tutor or Teacher
Use your mom skills to teach or tutor subjects you love—right from home. Online tutoring is a great option for single moms with a background in education or expertise in specific subjects. Tutors can work with students of all ages, providing academic support and guidance through virtual platforms. This job allows for flexible scheduling and the ability to work from home. Single moms can choose tutoring sessions that fit their availability. This flexibility makes it easier to manage their time. It also helps provide quality support to their students.
- Perfect because: Flexible, fulfilling, and scheduled around your kids.
- Where to start: Outschool, Preply
5. Etsy Shop Owner/Digital Product Seller
Create and sell printables, planners, or crafts online. Running an Etsy shop selling digital products is a dream side hustle. It is perfect for creative, tech-savvy single moms. The jobs can provide flexibility and passive income. Digital products like printable planners and custom invitations have many advantages. They include digital art and templates. These products require no inventory or shipping. They can be sold over and over again. Once you’ve created and uploaded your product, Etsy handles the rest. Work on your own schedule, and grow at your own pace. You can even turn your shop into a full-time income stream. With a little upfront hustle and smart marketing, this gig offers real potential for long-term financial freedom and creative fulfillment.
- Perfect because: Passive income potential.
- Where to start: Etsy, Canva
- Learn & Launch
- Gold City Ventures – E-Printables Course
Created by moms who cracked the Etsy code—this course focuses specifically on selling printables (calendars, planners, etc.) and offers a super supportive community. - There are literally hundreds if not thousands of free videos on YouTube, to get started, just google “How To Sell Digital Downloads on Etsy”
- Gold City Ventures – E-Printables Course
6. Remote Project Manager
Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects within a company. Many organizations offer remote project management positions, allowing single moms to work from home and manage their schedules. This role requires strong organizational and leadership skills, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with team members. (Note – this is what I do! I am hybrid now, meaning I work from home, some days but go into the office on others.)
- Perfect Because: Remote project management provides a stable income. It also offers opportunities for career growth. Additionally, it provides the flexibility needed to balance family responsibilities.
- Where to start: Google Project Management Certificate (Coursera)
Ready to take the first step? Choose one idea to find the right type of single mom job for you to explore today. Start building a new life, one small win at a time.
More about Returning to work after a Career Break here.
News!
Exciting news: I’m currently writing an ebook about getting back into the workforce. The working title is “Back to Work, Evolving You: A Single Mom’s Career Comeback Guide.” I am also developing an online course on this topic. I’d love your input—what content would you like to see explored more deeply? Leave a comment here and share your thoughts. Your feedback is invaluable!
Note: Some of the links on this post contain affiliate links. If you click and sign up or purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. All funds go to helping me keep this SMoms community going!