Best gig jobs for those who want to work remotely

When people think of gig jobs, they often think of rideshare workers like those who drive for Uber or those who deliver groceries or even packages for Amazon. There are loads of gig jobs that require the worker to drive and loads that don’t.

But one thing that all gig jobs have in common is that they all require the worker to be out in public and, at least occasionally, be interacting in person with customers. Or do they? We asked 13 hiring experts to come up with some gig jobs that allow people to work remotely:

• Craft Websites as Freelance Developer
• Digital Marketing: A Versatile Gig
• Explore Virtual Assistant and Writing Gigs
• SEO and Copywriting from Home
• Analyze Marketing, Consult Online
• SEO, Content Strategy, and Marketing Freelancing
• Manage E-Commerce, Offer Tech Support
• Real Estate, Design, and Social Media Gigs
• Write, Tutor, and Assist Virtually
• Transcribe, Assist, and Proofread Remotely
• Voice-Over, Technical Writing, Virtual Assistance
• AI Engineering, Ghostwriting, Translation Jobs
• Test Websites, Translate, Sell Online

Craft Websites as Freelance Developer

In the era of digital disruption, the gig economy is skyrocketing, offering unparalleled flexibility for remote workers. Three particularly promising roles are as follows:

Freelance Web Developer: Skilled coders crafting dynamic websites are in high demand. Specializing in cutting-edge frameworks like React can help secure steady projects.

Virtual Marketing Consultant: Companies seek savvy strategists to engage target audiences. Offer expertise in social media, content creation, or email marketing on a project basis.

Remote UX Designer: Businesses eagerly seek talented designers creating intuitive interfaces. Master tools like Sketch and stay current with design trends to become a sought-after asset.

The beauty lies in scalability—take on as much work as desired, aligning with your lifestyle and goals. Continuously refine skills, build a strong portfolio, and cultivate a network of satisfied clients. Embrace the hustle, stay adaptable, and the world of remote gig work will become your oyster.

Lou Reverchuk, Co-founder and CEO, EchoGlobal

Digital Marketing: A Versatile Gig

I’ve spent over two decades in customer service and have led my own company for the same amount of time, navigating through a variety of industries and adapting to their evolving needs, including the shift toward remote work. This experience has given me a broad understanding of what makes for successful gig roles, especially in remote settings. I believe I’m well-placed to answer this question due to my background in optimizing businesses for digital success and implementing comprehensive digital services through OneStop Northwest.

One great role for remote workers looking for gig opportunities is in digital marketing. The field is vast, encompassing everything from SEO and content creation to social media management. With businesses increasingly moving online, the demand for skilled digital marketers is higher than ever. What makes this role particularly suited to gig work is its project-based nature and the ability to measure results directly, providing clear value to clients. At OneStop Northwest, we’ve seen how effective a well-executed digital marketing strategy can be, not just in driving traffic but in fostering long-term growth.

Another excellent gig for remote workers is web development. Every business needs an online presence, and a website is often the first port of call for potential customers. Freelance web developers can cater to this need by offering customized solutions. This role requires a mix of creativity and technical skill, which can be very fulfilling. Plus, the outcomes of your work are tangible, from the design to the functionality of the sites you build. Our approach at OneStop Northwest emphasizes custom web design and SEO optimization, highlighting how critical these skills are in today’s digital landscape.

Lastly, project management is a field ripe for remote gig workers. With the right tools, like Trello and Wrike that we recommend based on our experience, remote project managers can efficiently coordinate teams, manage timelines, and ensure deliverables meet client expectations. This role is vital for keeping projects on track, especially when teams are distributed globally. It’s an area where experienced professionals can make a significant impact by applying their organizational and communication skills to guide projects to successful completion.

Dylan Cleppe, Co-Founder & CEO, OneStop Northwest LLC

Explore Virtual Assistant and Writing Gigs

Three significant gig roles for remote workers include “Virtual Assistant,” which offers flexible hours and diverse tasks such as administrative support, scheduling, and customer service.

Another option is “Freelance Writer or Copywriter,” allowing individuals to work on various projects remotely, including content creation, copywriting, and editing.

Additionally, “Social Media Manager” is a sought-after gig that involves managing social media accounts, creating content, and implementing digital marketing strategies for businesses, all of which can be done remotely. These roles provide independence, flexibility, and diverse opportunities for individuals seeking gig work remotely.

Kartik Ahuja, Marketing Manager, The Happy Trunk

SEO and Copywriting from Home

My business operates remotely, so I believe I have the expertise to answer your question. From experience, jobs related to digital marketing and SEO can be done remotely without any issue.

For instance, working as a copywriter or an outreach strategist are two excellent examples of jobs suitable for remote employees and gig workers. Currently, I employ several in-house writers, but in the past, I’ve relied on freelancers, so there is certainly a demand for such jobs. In fact, you may even work more efficiently from home because writing, for instance, requires deep focus and a quiet space, which is not always what office situations are like.

I am an SEO specialist, and this is another job that is perfectly suited for gig work from home. All you need is a computer with an internet connection and the right software. The great thing about SEO is that you can find both short- and long-term projects to work on. So if you are a gig worker looking for quick, one-off projects, you’ll have good chances of finding clients.

Nikola Baldikov, Founder, InBound Blogging

Analyze Marketing, Consult Online

Venturing into the realm of remote gig work, digital marketing analytics stands out as a pivotal career path. This role involves interpreting data from digital campaigns, website traffic, and social media engagement to guide strategic decisions. It’s perfect for those who excel at both analytical thinking and creative problem-solving. 

Another key area is online legal consulting. With the increasing accessibility of legal services online, there’s a demand for legal professionals who can offer advice, draft documents, and even represent clients remotely, making legal expertise more accessible. 

Additionally, environmental consulting has found a niche in the remote workspace. As businesses and individuals seek to reduce their environmental impact, professionals who can guide sustainability practices and regulatory compliance are increasingly sought after. 

These career paths not only offer the flexibility and independence associated with remote work but also cater to the growing demand for specialized services in an increasingly digital world.

Stephen Hasner, Managing Partner, Hasner Law PC

SEO, Content Strategy, and Marketing Freelancing

Diving into the gig economy has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Here are three gig roles that I’ve found not only exciting but also incredibly adaptable to the remote work lifestyle, based on my personal journey:

Working as an SEO consultant allows you to dive deep into the mechanics of websites and search algorithms, crafting strategies that catapult your client’s online presence to new heights. What’s fantastic about this role is its blend of analytical and creative thinking. You’re constantly staying on top of the latest trends and algorithm updates, making it a dynamic field where no two days are the same. Plus, the satisfaction of seeing your strategies drive organic traffic and growth for your clients is immensely rewarding.

A content strategist role involves not just creating content, but understanding the audience deeply and crafting compelling content plans that engage and convert. It’s about telling stories that resonate, using data to inform your decisions, and constantly experimenting with new ideas. The demand for skilled content strategists is high, as content remains king in the digital space. It’s a role that offers incredible freedom to express creativity, work with a variety of clients, and see the direct impact of your work on their success.

As a freelance digital marketer, you have the opportunity to specialize or become a jack-of-all-trades, helping businesses increase their online visibility, engagement, and conversions. What I love about this role is the variety it offers and the constant learning curve. Digital marketing strategies are always evolving, pushing you to adapt and innovate. It’s a field where you can truly make a difference, helping businesses navigate the digital landscape and connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.

Georgi Todorov, Founder, Create & Grow

Manage E-Commerce, Offer Tech Support

1. E-commerce Specialist – This role entails managing e-commerce stores, so it’s a job that can be done fully remotely as long as you have a good Wi-Fi connection and a working computer. It mainly involves optimizing product listings, processing purchases, and implementing digital marketing strategies to boost traffic and sales. 

2. Computer Tech Support – There are many tools and solutions that allow this role to be done remotely. Tools like TeamViewer, Remote Utilities, ConnectWise Control essentially allow tech support experts to navigate computer problems virtually. In today’s digital landscape, this role can land you above minimum wage up to six-figure salaries, so there’s high earning potential in this gig.

3. Content Writer – Even in this day and age of ChatGPT and other generative AI writing tools, there is never a shortage of demand for content writing roles because the complexity of human writing can’t easily be matched by AI. There are a lot of vacancies for content writers to produce blog posts, social media copies, website content, and the like, especially now that Google is implementing a strict penalty on websites that are caught using generative AI in their content.

Cyrus Partow, Founder, ShipTheDeal.com

Real Estate, Design, and Social Media Gigs

A graphic designer and a social media manager are all great options for remote workers looking to take on gig roles. A real estate agent is responsible for helping clients buy, sell, or rent properties. With the rise of virtual tours and online listing portals, much of the work can be done remotely. This allows for flexibility in working hours and the ability to work from anywhere with a stable internet connection.

Additionally, many real estate agents are self-employed and operate on a commission basis, making it a great gig role for those looking to set their own schedule and potentially earn more.

Graphic designers use their creativity and technical skills to create visual concepts for various forms of media. With the availability of design software and online collaboration tools, graphic designers can easily work remotely and take on gig projects for clients around the world. This allows for a diverse range of projects and the ability to work from anywhere with a stable internet connection.

In today’s digital age, social media has become a crucial aspect of any business or brand. As a result, the demand for social media managers has also increased significantly. A social media manager is responsible for creating and managing content on various social media platforms to build brand awareness, engage with followers, and drive sales. This role can easily be done remotely as long as there is a strong internet connection. With the flexibility to work from anywhere and the potential for high-paying gig projects, being a social media manager is an attractive option for remote workers.

Justin Turner, Founder & CEO, Turner Home Team

Write, Tutor, and Assist Virtually

As a freelance writer or content creator, you can work remotely to produce articles, blog posts, website copy, social media content, and more. You can choose projects that align with your interests and expertise, and you have the freedom to manage your workload independently. To successfully launch your freelance writing career, you’ll need strong writing, research, and time-management skills.

Online instructors may teach academic subjects, language skills, test preparation, music lessons, or other specialized topics through video conferencing or online learning platforms. Virtual tutors can reach students around the globe and cater to a diverse range of learners. You’ll need expertise in the subject you want to teach, as well as effective communication skills, patience, adaptability to various learning styles, and proficiency with online teaching tools.

Virtual assistants provide administrative, clerical, and organizational support to individuals or businesses remotely. Tasks may include managing emails, scheduling appointments, making travel arrangements, data entry, social media management, and more. You’ll need strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills, and the ability to work with various online tools and platforms.

Sebastian Morgan, Senior Content Specialist, CV Genius

Transcribe, Assist, and Proofread Remotely

1. Transcription Jobs: Transcriptionists listen to audio recordings and transcribe them into written documents. This role is well-suited for remote work as it primarily requires a computer and strong typing skills. Depending on experience and the complexity of the transcription work, salaries can range from $10 to $25 per hour.

2. Virtual Assistant: Virtual assistants provide administrative support to businesses or individuals remotely. Tasks can include scheduling appointments, managing emails, and handling various administrative duties. Salaries for virtual assistants vary based on skill level and workload, ranging from $15 to $40 per hour.

3. Proofreading: Remote proofreaders review written content for errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. This job is ideal for remote work as it only requires a computer and strong language skills. Proofreaders can earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on their expertise and the complexity of the material they’re proofreading.

Mahesh Kumar, Spokesperson, Transcription Certification Institute

Voice-Over, Technical Writing, Virtual Assistance

The gig economy thrives on diversity, and one area that has seen substantial growth is voice-over work. This unique field is perfect for individuals with distinctive voices and strong articulation skills, offering opportunities in audiobooks, e-learning content, and commercial advertisements. 

Another promising career path is in the field of technical writing. As technology continues to advance, there’s a growing need for writers who can simplify complex information into clear, user-friendly documentation, guides, and helpful articles. 

Lastly, the demand for virtual assistants continues to rise. Entrepreneurs, executives, and small businesses seek support with administrative tasks, email management, scheduling, and even social media, making it a versatile career choice for organized and efficient individuals. 

These opportunities not only cater to the demand for remote work but also offer the chance to work with a diverse clientele, ensuring engaging and dynamic work experiences.

Ananvita Bhattacharya, Owner, WellnessZing

AI Engineering, Ghostwriting, Translation Jobs

AI Prompt Engineer

Generative AI is automating different forms of content creation. However, businesses that use these tools still need a human to enter prompts and create text, images, and videos. This has created the role of an AI Prompt Engineer, someone who can expertly utilize tools like ChatGPT and MidJourney. Interestingly, most businesses are willing to hire remote AI engineers to save costs and access the global talent pool.

Ghostwriters

Many professionals want to publish a book under their name but don’t have the time or the energy to write the entire manuscript. These individuals hire writers who can transform their ideas into compelling narratives. The demand for remote ghostwriters has remained consistently high in recent years because there are many online platforms where anyone can become a published author. All they need is a good book, and this is where the ghostwriters come in.

Translator

The world is more connected now than it has ever been. However, language continues to be a great barrier between businesses and consumers. This is where many organizations hire professional translators to take their message to a diverse range of audiences. Anyone who speaks more than one language can search for remote work opportunities as a translator. Such jobs have decent pay because they require a specialized skill set that most people don’t possess.

Farhan Siraj, Chief Executive Officer, OSHA Outreach Courses

Test Websites, Translate, Sell Online

Website Tester

This role offers an average earning of $61,000. Almost anyone, regardless of their skills or background, can engage in website testing as an online side job. Many people have the capability to navigate a website or app and evaluate its usability. This job is open to virtually anyone with a phone or computer. Businesses hire website testers to gain insights into their strengths and areas needing enhancement before launching their platform to a broader audience. Ensuring that their website or app is user-friendly and well-received is crucial. Website testers are well-compensated for their input, potentially earning up to $40 an hour with consistent work. For a side job that can be done from home, this pay is quite impressive.

Translator

The average annual income for remote translators is $42,000. If you are fluent in more than one language, a translator side job can be ideal. Online translation roles vary, involving either text translation or verbal interpretation, making them suitable whether you prefer written or spoken tasks.

Online Retailer

This gig can yield an average annual income of $127,000, depending on the products sold. Selling items like clothes and jewelry online that you no longer use is an excellent side gig. Platforms such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist are popular for online retailing. It’s a practical way to declutter your space and earn extra money simultaneously.

Paw Vej, Chief Operating Officer, Financer.com