15 Blue-Collar Jobs for Older Workers

If you’re not ready to retire but want a job that offers a part-time schedule and competitive pay, you might consider applying for what’s known as a blue-collar job. 

During the 1920s, people who worked in manufacturing or did other types of manual, skilled labor often wore blue shirts on the job. That garment led to those types of occupations being dubbed blue-collar jobs, in contrast to the white-collar jobs filled by business professionals in white shirts. More recently, the term gray-collar job has been used for occupations that don’t require a college degree like most professional jobs do but may require an apprenticeship or other more advanced training than a typical blue-collar job.

Because older adults are less likely than younger workers to have a college degree, blue-collar occupations can offer job opportunities for retirees or others looking for part-time work. While some blue-collar jobs can be physically demanding, there are other such occupations that don’t require more ability than typical daily activities.

Troy Latuff, 54, founder and president of the Blue Collar Recruiter and Virtual Trade School in Austin, Texas, launched his business in 2020 to connect prospective candidates to jobs in skilled trades. He often works with older job seekers who are semiretired from office roles, retired tradespeople who want to continue using their skills on a part-time basis, and job seekers who want to hone a new skill.

“We have employers in the residential, commercial and industrial space who welcome candidates with transferable skills such as leadership, sales and customer service,” Latuff says. “In addition, some employers offer candidates on-the-job training.”

The following are examples, listed alphabetically, of some of the in-demand blue- and gray-collar jobs. Clicking on the “Find jobs” link will take you to currently available postings on the AARP Job Board, unless otherwise noted. All wage data is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, unless otherwise noted. Whether you’re looking to make extra money or stave off boredom, here are 15 jobs for people over 50 to consider.

1. Customer service representative

Average wage: $19.08 per hour

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If you have excellent people skills and phone etiquette, many companies are looking to fill customer service positions. These jobs require a high school diploma or GED and good communications and problem-solving skills. Many companies offer on-the-job training and full-time and part-time schedules. The hours can be very flexible, too, because some customer assistance lines are staffed 24 hours a day.

2. Driving instructor

Average wage: $21.25 per hour (per Indeed)

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Driving instructors work full-time or part-time schedules to help teens and adults master the rules of driving and become confident behind the wheel. To become a professional driving instructor, you must become licensed in the state you work in. Although each state has its own requirements, most require driving instructors to have a high school diploma or GED, hold a valid driver’s license, maintain a good driving record, and pass a physical exam.

Many employers, such as the American Automobile Association (AAA), offer paid training and licensing for these jobs, as well as a company car.

3. Event staff

Average wage: $19.29 per hour

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Event staff work at concerts, sporting events and other venues taking tickets, answering questions, greeting guests and helping them find their assigned seats. No prior experience is necessary and part-time shifts are available.

Other event jobs include parking attendants and set-up assistants.